As we approach the end of Term 3, it is rewarding to reflect on the many wonderful achievements and celebrations that have taken place. While it is difficult to single out specific highlights, the Music Festival last Wednesday evening certainly stands out. Words cannot do justice to the performances. The memory of seeing the drums played with lightsabres, and Mr Max Grynchuk conducting mid-performance with his own lightsabre, is one that will not be quickly forgotten. We are fortunate to have such a talented team guiding the boys in their musical pursuits.
On Monday, we celebrated a significant moment as 22 students were confirmed as members of the Anglican Church. What a special and important occasion for these students as they made a renewed commitment to God. As an Anglican school, we value these opportunities that allow the boys to explore their own spirituality. Witnessing the commitment these boys made in front of their peers was a memorable moment from the term.
Additionally, the winter intercollegiate fixtures were another highlight of the term. Watching the boys support each other across a range of co-curricular activities demonstrates the strength of the SPSC community. It also serves as a reminder of our shared connection – we are all part of one community, strengthened by each person within it.
Whilst on the topic of sport and community, it was fantastic to see the participation of the boys in the annual athletics championship. The house spirit was on full display last Friday, and not even the weather could dampen the event. Congratulations to Da Costa House for taking out the overall championship.
Last Saturday was International Day of Peace, a day established by the United Nations General Assembly 25 years ago to promote a culture of peace across the globe. I was fortunate to attend the Cultivating a Culture of Peace event at the University of Adelaide. One of the panel presenters, Ms Gill Hicks, challenged us to consider how we can stand together as a community. She emphasised that in cultivating peace, we need to look for the positives and find common ground in our thinking and in our hearts. It is through finding shared common ground that we can take action.
If we apply this to our school, our common ground is that we are all members of the St Peter’s community. Whether it is competing in co-curricular activities or simply walking through the school gates, we do it together. This shared common ground allows us to engage in meaningful dialogue, focus on the positives in each other, and find peace in our relationships.
Ms Hicks also encouraged us to seek joy in our pursuit of peace. Joy is an intriguing concept, and I wonder – when have you experienced pure joy, and when have you shared it with others? It is through sharing joy that we can foster peace, if we allow it to be part of our lives.
At St Peter’s College, one of our core values is respect, and it is through respect that we can cultivate a culture of peace. This process begins in our school, and I love the idea that from little things, big things grow. By demonstrating respect here, we can influence the world beyond our walls and fields, helping to foster a culture of peace.
Ms Hicks concluded with the following statement: ‘Someone, somewhere is feeling the effects of something we have done, and how much of that is done with love and positivity?’
As we enter this term break, may the change of pace in your family’s life be filled with joy and positivity, so that together we can contribute to bringing peace to our world.
David Nolan
Deputy Headmaster/ Head of Senior School
