From the Principal

‘The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you.  In between, the leader is a servant’ (Max DePree).

Throughout the week we have had the opportunity to hear from our future 2022 College leaders as part of the second stage of the leadership selection process.  Having submitted their written applications earlier this term each candidate has the chance to give their pitch for the selected role in a variety of forums.  These forums include staff and students who subsequently vote for each position. There are also one on one interviews with a selection of Senior Leadership Team which is still to follow. 

I commend each of these students for their courage to ‘have a go’ and put themselves forward for consideration. What each of these young ladies has demonstrated is their vulnerability and willingness to share with the College community their leadership journey and vision. What we have heard from each of them is the important role that a stable, trusting and collaborative team play in successful leadership. 

Through their pitches, each student has reflected deeply about the important role humility plays in leadership with the common themes of their speeches addressing questions such as,  

• Am I taking the same risks as I ask others?
• How can my leadership add value to the College community?
• How does my leadership journey support my growth and development?
• How will my leadership develop relationships with others?

We look forward to hearing from the College Captain candidates tomorrow during assembly.

Staffing

I am pleased to announce that Mr. Jim Lloyd will be the next House Leader for Radcliffe. I am sure that you will all join me in congratulating Jim on his appointment.

Magpies

This week we have been alerted to several magpies swooping people within the College and Clayfield area. We have been speaking to a licensed bird contractor regarding the birds and are working with them to remove them safely. In the meantime, we have put up signs around the College to alert everyone plus erected tents in the relevant areas.

Magpies are well-known for swooping humans and pets during their breeding season between July and December, with the peak swooping month in September. This has resulted in the magpie becoming a nuisance to some people.

Most magpies will accept the presence of people within their territories, however, when attacks do occur, they usually take place within a one hundred metre radius around the tree containing the nest.

While most magpie attacks are mild, they could cause serious injury to the eyes and head. 

Tips to protect yourself

Follow these tips to stay safe:

• avoid areas where these birds are nesting during the breeding season
• if you are swooped, leave the area as quickly as possible but do not run
• wear a hat or carry an umbrella
• wear glasses to protect your eyes
• do not interfere with the birds or their nest as this may increase swooping behaviour
• watch the birds while walking away quickly - it is less likely to swoop if it knows you're watching
• never harass or provoke birds as this makes them more defensive and may lead to a worse attack next time
• do not touch a young bird

Bike riding tips

If you are riding your bike you can:

• stick eyespots, a plastic face or attach cable ties to your helmet
• dismount and walk (it is believed the birds respond mainly to movement).