Calrossy Anglican School

From the Principal

Message from the Principal - Mr David Smith

A Centenary year is an exciting time for a school. One hundred years of history indicates depth and longevity, underpinning a capacity to adapt and remain relevant, amidst a turbulent and changing world around. This year has seen Calrossy celebrate much of our past and give thanks to God for sustaining us. There have been reunions, celebrations of people who have contributed to the School and special events. I have particularly enjoyed the stories of past students and learning of their achievements post school, inspired by the teachers and education received in the school.  (If you haven’t ordered a copy of the Centenary booklet (A Walk Through Time), I would encourage you to do so as it is full of great stories around the School.) 

 

 

Our first 100 years has been a lot about people. It has also been about change. The School today is nothing like the original Tamworth Church of England Girls School or even what it was 20 years ago as three separate schools. Despite many changes to Tamworth, in education across the globe, I have been reminded that much of the ‘magic’ that happens in schools in any era is around relationships and strong connections between people. When other things are stripped away, the impact of people and culture of the school (shaped by people) is what stands out. At Calrossy we seek to keep it this way.

The advent of our Centenary has also allowed us to take stock of the school we are now, our strengths, weaknesses and needs. There is much we we do very well, and our student success and recent Year 12 results place us in the top echelon of schools, in the region and NSW. Of course, there are things that need to be improved or enhanced, as is the case everywhere. The school that stops improving is the one that shifts focus from what is most important – the students and their learning.

Looking at our past and present through the lens of a Centenary allows us to peer into the future, considering what we might become in years to come. What sort of education will be required for students to be equipped to meaningful members of society? I am determined to ensure that the culture, community and relationships in our School remain foremost in our thinking and planning. Our current focus on growing great boys and girls must not be allowed to shift. We want to support fabulous learners but just as important is growing and moulding positive citizens, possessing great character, who relate well, who have passions and interests and who will help our society to be a more positive one.

Calrossy has undergone significant change in the last 20 years, not all of it necessarily sought after or wanted and there will inevitable changes ahead. However, it gives me comfort that focus on the right things amongst this change will ensure continued relevance in educating quality young people effectively. Our School today is strong as a result of our past, the positive culture of the School, the dedicated members of the community, responsive students and committed staff.

 

Calrossy Centenary Crest

During our Centenary year we have adopted a special crest for the occasion. It combines the various elements of the different parts of the School during its history:

 

  • The Bishop’s mitre at the top comes from the traditional Tamworth Church of England Girls School, signifying the role of the Anglican Diocese of Armidale. The Bible on the top right indicates a connection with God’s word and its importance.
  • The copperplate Calrossy was designed in the late 1960s when Calrossy was adopted as the name of the school. The Thistle on the bottom left was also a symbol of the legacy of the Paterson family in the name of the Scottish property, Calrossy, from which the School takes its name. 
  • The white cross is a Christian symbol, taken from the original William Cowper school crest.
  • The dove (top left) is a ‘biblical’ symbol used by William Cowper Anglican Primary.
  • The Wyvern (sometimes called Griffon or Dragon – bottom right) became synonymous with the William Cowper Anglican Secondary Boys School.
  • The motto “Light and Life” was adopted by the School upon the amalgamation of the various sections of the School in 2005.

 

The Centenary crest is therefore a powerful commentary on the history of the School over its first one hundred years, combining the different parts of the school that now make up Calrossy Anglican School.  Various jerseys, scarves, ties, pieces of apparel and other merchandise has used this crest during 2019. Centenary merchandise is available for purchase.

 

 

 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”Hebrews 13:8

 

Ball of the Century

Thanks to Michael Wilson and his team of Parents and Friends who organised such a fabulous ‘Ball of the Century’ over the weekend. We enjoyed a fabulous night of revelry and fun, based around the 1920s theme. Special thanks to our sponsors. The Ball also marked the official launch of Foundation CAS, a body with the task of supporting the School through Building, Resources and Scholarships/Bursaries. (More on this in the future.) During the ball, the Foundation presented Calrossy with $100 000 as a gift to support the construction of the new 10 classroom block for the William Cowper Campus.

Thankyou to parents and friends of the School who attended the ball. Your support is greatly valued and appreciated. There will be a photo gallery on The Hub available for viewing and to download photos later in the week.