From the Acting Principal 

The Art of a Gentleman

As young men, our interactions and influence can have enormous effect. The cultural norms associated with what it means to be a gentleman, should be a focus for us. How we engage with all members of our community highlights the qualities needed of a gentleman. From the traditional context to how this impacts us in 2023, our core values here at St Virgil’s reflect these qualities of a gentleman and we will always work with our young men to embrace these and put into practice. A great man once told me “It costs nothing to be gentle”. The positive influence our gentleness can have on those around us has no bounds and is an area we will always provide a sense of direction in an all-boys setting. There is much discussion in our society around the elderly, those on the margins, domestic violence and more recently the discussion around consent. The art of the gentleman has the power to influence all of these issues in society for the betterment of everyone. 

Careers Showcase

Last Friday 19 May, our Year 10 and 11 students attended the Southern Colleges Careers Showcase at MAC 02. This showcase provided our young men with the opportunity to speak firsthand to various industry providers and employers to seek knowledge and guidance on their respective industries. It has coincided well with our Year 10 career counselling sessions. Building from this we will hold our Year 11 Subject selection Evening on Tuesday 6 June. This is an opportunity for all Year 10 students and parents to speak with teachers and gain an understanding of career/subject pathways and requirements. 

Building Update

With our Callan Centre in full operation, our attention has moved to the completion of Building B, the original Doyle Wing. Due for completion at the end of July, things are well and truly taking shape. Once completed we will have access to another five classrooms, an IT support centre, IT lab and additional staff offices. This building will provide connection to the rest of the college with access to the Science/Hamilton Wing and also across the bridge to the Callan Centre. I would like to commend our young men on how they have adapted to the requirements associated with building programs and in particular how they have used and respected the new facilities. It marks a significant time within our history to be blessed with such facilities and resources. 

Staffing

After 15 years of service, Mr John O’Keeffe has decided to conclude his time at St Virgil’s College. Mr O’Keeffe will transition into semi-retirement at the end of the Term 2. We sincerely thank Mr O’Keeffe for his contributions to our community during his time. 

Best wishes for the week ahead.

Daniel Lapolla

Acting Principal