Deputy Principal 

Start of a new year -  and a new journey

As with the commencement of every new year, we all have our hopes and dreams for what the year might bring. I can assure you I am no different, always looking for ways in which schools (and in particular the students) can grow, as well as how we might do that. As a person coming into a new community I’m well aware of perception and reality, so the coming months and years will be a time of great learning for me. Nevertheless, I thought I would take the opportunity in my first newsletter article to share with you some observations that provide much hope and optimism for the journey ahead.

Community 

It will come to no surprise to many of you that in my first few days here at the College it became very apparent that the PCW community is a very strong and cohesive one. Strong in the sense that the community is rich through its diversity. Additionally, the fact that there is much support for all of those who are a part of that community, is the glue that creates a strong bond. The Presentation Spirit runs deep, with the students at the centre of the thinking and the broader community providing a network that allows them to grow. Personally, I am deeply grateful for the manner in which I have been welcomed into the community by staff, students and parents, and look forward to growing in unison with our families in the coming years.

The Girls

The very reason the school exists is to serve the needs of our girls. The school is a mix of both beautiful old buildings and more contemporary spaces, however prior to the return of the students, there was something missing- life! Upon the return of the girls, I was able to experience first hand what PCW is renowned for; young women of energy, enthusiasm and resilience. We are in the grip of the Music Festival, one of many events that will happen over the year, however it merely serves as a vehicle for the girls to shine. This, and many other events, I look forward to with great anticipation.

Staff at PCW

You may be aware (or not!) that I had previously worked at CBC for a number of years. This allowed me to get to know some of the staff here in that time, so coming across the road wasn’t completely foreign to me. The welcome from staff was one thing; nevertheless, the support they have extended not just to me but to all new staff has been humbling. I certainly am grateful for what they have done. Beyond the welcome, I have seen a dynamic and enthusiastic staff ready to meet the demands that life in a school presents. The curriculum, wellbeing programs and overall focus on the girls themselves should give great hope to the school and plans for its ongoing growth. I’m particularly excited about both the Positive Education program and the Middle Years Programs, two elements of PCW that, through our great teachers, will equip the girls beyond their formal education and into life proper.

I am genuinely excited about the opportunity that joining the Presentation College community presents. I thank all members of the community for their kind words and thoughts. I look forward to getting to know each and every student in the school as well as their extended families; to celebrate success as well as support when needed. Most importantly I look forward to forming a lasting relationship within the school that grows the Presentation family. The road will not always be smooth, however it is the strength of the community that will see us through.

Brenden Mair 

Deputy Principal