From the Principal

Seeking Justice

Over the past week I have had the opportunity to listen to outstanding speeches from Years 10 and 11 students. The Atticus Finch Justice Award was initiated in 2011 and exemplifies the College’s motto of Seek Justice through the study of Harper Lee’s novel ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ and a unit of work focusing on Freedom and Conscience in Religious Education.

All Year 10 students were required to complete this cross-curricular task which demonstrated understanding of the issues of justice, fairness, freedom and conscience as studied in both English and Religious Education classes. The dozen finalists spoke to the entire Year 10 cohort and skillfully presented the themes from the novel and linked them superbly to the values of our College. Messages presented were powerful and were a wonderful endorsement of our students and the guidance they received from their teachers and families.

A delightful humility was also evident when our prospective School Captains addressed their Year 11 colleagues. Our future leaders spoke of their close bonds with their classmates and their willingness to be fully engaged with school life. The speeches were all unique and highlighted the engagement of so many students in the rich fabric of College life.

On the sporting field or on any performance stage, we encourage our students to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat. Our Year 11 students spoke modestly of their own achievements but were quick to acknowledge and affirm others. It was a privilege to be in the audience.

In both the Years 10 and Year 11 presentations, the audience was superb. They were respectful when it was time to be respectful; they were appreciative when it was time to be appreciative. They relaxed and discussed the presentations with their friends at the appropriate juncture. The ability to ‘read the play’ was very evident.

Congratulations to all students involved for contributing so positively to the wonderful culture of the College.

Robert Henderson

Principal