The Senior School is currently in a period of transition as students start looking forward to 2025. Year 8 students have been spending more time in their House, adapting well to the vertical mentoring model. Additionally, Year 6 students from the Junior School had the opportunity to visit Year 7 Chapel and attend Senior School Muster, highlighting the important aspect of transitions for all of us.
The purpose of our transition days is to ensure students feel calm and at ease as they move to the next step in their learning and life journey. It’s important to acknowledge that feeling nervous is natural during times of change. Embracing and understanding these emotions helps us learn more about how we can be better prepared for the changes that occur around us each day and provides an opportunity for growth and self-awareness as we navigate change throughout our lives.
Year 11 students are also experiencing a significant transition as they move into their final year. They have already shown strong leadership, demonstrating responsibility, care, and gratitude for the opportunity to be student leaders of the School. Many have been balancing these new leadership roles with Stage 2 exam preparation and the other demands of school life, but they have been well supported throughout their time here at SPSC, which has certainly facilitated a smooth transition.
The School’s rhythm can be measured in its co-curricular programme. It is great to see our boys’ dedication to their training across their summer sports, from early morning to late afternoon, which showcases their commitment to improvement. Thank you to our coaches and students for their dedication to our co-curricular programmes. We look forward to celebrating their successes over the coming weeks.
On Monday, we will commemorate Remembrance Day, a significant occasion to pause and give thanks to those who fought in the Great War. It serves as a powerful reminder of our School motto, Pro Deo et Patria — for God and Country. Reflecting on the many young men from our School who made the ultimate sacrifice is essential, ensuring we honour and give thanks for their service.
Last Saturday, we welcomed back the graduating classes of 1974, 1984, 1994, and 2004 at the Old Scholars Milestone Reunion. This event highlighted the impact our graduates have made on the world beyond the walls and fields of St Peter’s College. It is also a reminder of the significant role our staff play in shaping young boys as they grow into responsible young men. One alumnus from the class of 1974 expressed his gratitude, asking for a message to be conveyed to one of our staff who taught him. His message read, “Once again, thank you very much. Your kindness at the time has left a lasting impression on me.” Our staff are aware of the responsibility of their work and the importance of every interaction each day. We extend our thanks to parents and caregivers for entrusting us with your sons.
Finally, on Thursday, a group of our senior boys attended the White Ribbon Breakfast, where they were challenged by speakers to understand both individual and collective responsibility in addressing violence against women. Guest speaker Dr Vince Hurley emphasised the need for directness and the importance of language in tackling this societal issue, noting that good men must actively engage in this conversation. At St Peter’s College, we can draw hope from knowing our School is filled with decent, strong, and compassionate young men. The morning concluded with a reminder that meaningful change will not come from a single voice, but from a collective chorus committed to bringing about change. We are challenged to be part of that chorus, working together to tackle the issue of violence against women in our community.
David Nolan
Deputy Headmaster / Head of Senior School