From the Head of Junior School

We have had an incredibly busy week to conclude Term 3!

The Year 3 students set off to Finniss for their two-night venture. Camp is such a wonderful opportunity for students to display character strengths, skills and knowledge they might not ordinarily have a chance to display in school. On a night walk with boys in 3W, one student offered me his torch as I didn’t have mine with me. This act was both generous and selfless and reflects the School value of service. Another student I spoke with impressed me with the camping experience he has had on York Peninsula and how confidently he shared his knowledge whilst we walked, alongside classmates, through dark scrub. These are just two examples of how donning raincoats to explore the Finniss campus after dark led to interactions, I would not have had on a regular school day. I am sure my colleagues have countless additional examples of how students are given a unique platform to demonstrate what they know, understand and can do when working away from home and school.

The Years 1 and 2 concert held on Wednesday afternoon and evening was an absolute privilege to watch. The Animated Friends themed show is sure to inspire parents to revisit some of the retro Disney classics with their children in the holidays. Congratulations to all staff involved in the production, and in particular to Ms Katie Carey for her impressive planning, directing and conducting. The boys performed confidently, cohesively and with joy; evidence of a highly skilled team working with a very special group of boys!

After the seemingly endless weeks of rainy days, the weather was kind to us on Thursday for our Years 3 to 6 Sports Day. It was great to see students participating in a range of novelty and athletics events over the course of the day, culminating in a series of House relays. I look forward to announcing the results of the day in our Term 4 Week 1 Assembly. Thank you to the parents who took up the invitation to wear a splash of colour reflecting their son’s House.

As we approach Term 4, I would like to personally wish Ms Sally Houston all the best for her Long Service leave in the coming term. We look forward to Sally returning in 2023 to continue her outstanding work leading Art education in our Junior School. Ms Angelika Bailey, who has been working across the Junior School over the past year, will be teaching Art in Sally’s absence.

Please remember boys are to wear summer uniform in Term 4. Do insist your son polishes his shoes ready for the start of term. When visiting the hairdresser, make sure no extreme difference in length, fades or lightning bolts are shaved into boys’ hair.

I wish you and your family a safe and restful holiday and I look forward to welcoming you ready for an engaging Term 4.

Jasmine Taylor
Head of Junior School
jtaylor@stpeters.sa.edu.au

Important Dates for Term 4