A Note from Nelson

As I write this, School is well into Term One. Staff and students have settled into a routine and learning both in and out of the classroom is evident throughout the School. New staff continue to learn more about the culture of Friends' as well as Quakerism.

Jo Jordan, the Presiding Clerk of Australia Yearly Meeting (and a member of the Board of Governors) was recently interviewed on the ABC by James Carlton for his weekly program "God Forbid". A Zen Buddhist was the other guest.

"Quakers have been a force in almost every progressive social movement for the last 300 years and are most well known for their pacifism. Buddhism also has a reputation in the West for being peaceful, but over such a long history that hasn't always been the case. What role does nonviolence play in these two traditions today? ... Part of being a small faith tradition means many new members aren't born into the faith - they are converts. Both panellists on God Forbid this week used to believe something else. What impact has conversion had on their lives?"  It is an interesting program and if you have the time to listen, here is a link to the program.

The School has welcomed many new staff members and new leaders this year. Shaun O'Rourke, the Deputy Principal, has returned to Tasmania after 17 years and many roles at the Taipei American School in Taiwan. He has been joined at Friends' by his wife Katie (Year 2 teacher) and their three children. Adam Chambers, an Old Scholar and longtime staff member, has assumed the role of Head of Clemes and Mark Febey, another long-tenured staff member at Morris, has become the Head of Morris.

Last week our Whole of School Gathering was to be held outside on Harmony Day, but unfortunately, it was cancelled due to some much-needed rain. Students and staff had prepared some words to share regarding what community meant to them. For me, community, one of the central testimonies of Quakerism, is indeed a deep strength of our School. Community provides a sense of belonging and common purpose. It multiplies our individual gifts and resources. Our shared experiences expand each other’s lives and our inner lives become populated with the voices, wisdom, laughter and insights with whom we share this place.  I’d like to thank you for being part of and contributing to our community.

I hope you enjoy this edition of Rose & Waratah as you learn a bit more about Friends' and what is on offer here.

I am looking forward to another terrific year at The Friends' School.

Sincerely,

Nelson File