Principal's News

As the end of term draws near, I am delighted to reflect on the wonderful achievements and experiences that our school community has shared together over the past few months. It has been a busy and productive term, with many exciting events, activities, and learning opportunities taking place across our Prep to Year 12 school. Our students have participated in various sporting competitions, music and drama performances, and cultural events, showcasing their skills and talents to a wider audience. We have also welcomed guest speakers and organised workshops to enhance our students' knowledge and skills in different areas.

Furthermore, our teachers have continued to provide high-quality teaching and support to our students. I am grateful for their dedication, hard work, and professionalism ensuring that our students receive the best possible education.  I know you join me in thanking all of our wonderful staff here at Shelford.

Our thoughts and best wishes continue for Ms Thom (JS Music coordinator and Head of Choral), who is taking an extension of her leave to Term 2 and 3, in order to manage a significant illness in her immediate family. I thank Mr Blakiston, Ms McLeod and our instrumental teachers, for their extra work with our music classes and ensembles in Ms Thom’s absence.

We are delighted that Ms Nyhuis is able to return to Shelford in a part time capacity to take up some of the work of Ms Thom in Term 2 and 3. 

I have urged the Senior School students to take some time to reflect on what they have done and achieved this term.  I reminded them that Winston Churchill said,” Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” 

At Shelford, we focus on developing students holistically as people and learners. Developing the capacity to be a good human being, is as important as being a strong academic student or a talented sports person or musician.  I asked our students to consider how they have contributed to our community as a person. Mother Teresa wrote “Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” What a wonderful aspiration this is!

A positive and inclusive, supportive school culture, can only exist when everyone who is a part of it contributes. We are all connected by a thousand fibres to our fellow humans. I urge our students to be supportive of those around them and to look outside of themselves and in doing so, flourish in pursuit of their own path.

I thank our students for contributing so positively to our community; leading, working hard and taking on different activities and challenges. We are fortunate that we are able to forge such close and supportive relationships within our learning community and we pride ourselves on this aspect of school life.

As we approach the end of term, it is important to take a break and recharge, and it is also important to continue engaging in meaningful activities and maintaining good habits, such as reading, exercising, and spending quality time with family and friends. The Year 12 students need to rest but also need to dedicate time to their studies and commit themselves to being fully prepared for Term 2; reviewing Term 1 work and preparing for Term 2, at minimum completing the work that has been set by their teachers.

Finally, I would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday break. Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community. I look forward to seeing you all in the next term.

Katrina Brennan

Principal