Deputy Principal

2023: A Year of Considerable Change

The start of the year has seen numerous new additions and opportunities for renewed tradition and ritual. Our staff have been over numerous years busily preparing for a College that would include Year 11 and eventually Year 12 students. From day one the Year 11s were prominent, standing out in their subtle uniform changes which includes a white shirt and specific Year 11 tie. It was great to gather as a collective and complete one of our staple traditions in that of the blessing of the bags. We thank Br Peter for always being available to us, we are certainly blessed to have him within our community. 

Day 1 for all students continued with separate Middle School and Senior School assemblies. The first roll calls for new Pastoral Care groups were completed with a sense of tradition and nostalgia presented within the senior assembly. Below is an extract of the last Year 12 Prefect Speech conducted in 1994 which highlights how historically important 2023 is to our community.

1994 Graduation Ceremony Speech by Year 12 Prefect Shane Cracknell

"As we all know Guilford Young College will commence business on the Barrack Street site in 1995. To say this saddens me immensely would be a considerable understatement. To think that we are the last group to experience the magic which is the St Virgil’s spirit. There are larger schools, more picturesque schools, schools boasting better facilities and more money. But no other school can be proud of such a wonderful heritage, such a strong sense tradition or student body so full of life. I hope the barrack street site will always have house spirit of St Virgil’s. I ask that all old boys of the College keep the spirit alive by continuing to support the Austins Ferry Campus which will remain as the only major all-male catholic College in Tasmania."

There have been numerous changes to improve student life at Austins Ferry which include:

Custom Catering: School Canteen

Egg and bacon rolls have been a huge hit before school. Students are still encouraged to utilise the Qkr! App and order prior to school commencing. With an effective new pick-up station provided for students who pre order to get their lunches quicker. Those who still wish to purchase during recess and lunch are free to do so. 

Pastoral Care Structure

Boys have adapted extremely well to their new groupings and PC teachers. Our Year 9s now become the leaders within their groups and we are currently in the process of seeking nominations for peer support leaders, so please see Miss Van Heerden if you are interested. Our Year 10s will get the opportunity to work alongside our Year 11s and witness the demands and expectations associated with TASC and additional work requirements and commitments. As parents and carers, we encourage you to make contact with your PC as your first point of contact.

Building Update

We have already begun the process of regaining College facilities and grounds as VOS construction works tirelessly. With the space outside of the JPC now being much more accessible for oval and JPC use. Art Room 3 has had new windows installed and will be utilised as a senior art studio. Our Technology department has grown with the automotive infill completed over the January holidays. St Virgil’s will now have four designated workshop spaces to facilitate the huge uptake in Year 9 and 10 electives and Year 11 VET courses.

Lockers

The Year 11s have received new weatherproof lockers. The College is committed to upgrading our lockers moving forward with this new system. Previously used lockers which we exposed to weather elements have also been relocated. A reminder to always have your lockers locked, never leave devices and valuables over night at school and to report any weather damage to student services.

Timetable Changes

The 2023 timetable includes some subtle changes to the timing of classes, making more effective use of the time we have available. It stresses the importance of preparation and routine in order to meet the demands of college life. Dedicated time has been incorporated into the timetable to include designated Wellbeing Sessions for our students, which will be led by our Pastoral care Teachers. Community and cultural events will also be better planned to avoid disruption to student learning.

Year 7s

While much of the attention has been drawn to our Year 11 cohort, we cannot forget our new recruits, our Year 7s. They have already completed a preparation day to better equip their start to Year 7, combined with our New Beginnings Program which is currently underway. I would like to commend our Year 7 group on their efficient start.

The Best Version of You

Lastly, I would like to wish everyone a great Term 1. We encourage our boys to communicate with us. When we are in dialogue we can work through any obstacle. Your PC teachers are a great resource. Mr Jon Franzin, Miss Farron Boxall and I are always present each morning before school, each recess and lunch and afterschool on bus duty so please do not hesitate to come and have a chat. I leave you with some motivating words from our students absolutes.

The Best Version of You

As Virgilians we aim to challenge ourselves and live up to example of Blessed Edmund, People will see our values in our deeds

“It’s not about perfect. It’s about effort.”

“Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude.”

“You don’t get what you wish for. You get what you work for.”