21 February 2025
A Community of Engagement and Support
Thank you to all who joined us last Friday for drinks to celebrate the start of the new academic year. It was a wonderful evening, made even more special by your commitment – not only to your own sons but also to the broader school community. With over 550 parents and guardians in attendance, the evening was a testament to the strong connections that make St Peter’s College such a unique and vibrant community.
It is important to remember that your son’s SPSC education is not something he is handed – it is something he experiences, participates in and grows from each day. This growth comes through challenge, discomfort, and perseverance, ultimately shaping his character through our values of truth, respect and service. Education is not a transaction; it is a partnership and I encourage you as parents to take your rightful place in this community – to be present, to connect with one another, and to share in the experience alongside your son and his peers’ families.
We ask you to link arms with us, to be actively involved, and to help create an environment where all our boys are drawn out of themselves, engaged in meaningful challenges, and encouraged to step beyond their comfort zones. Whether through participation in our parent support groups, attending weekend sporting fixtures, or ensuring fellow parents are included in events, your involvement strengthens the very fabric of our School.
The Power of Volunteering
Our Council of Governors, all of whom volunteer their time, are highly engaged in our community and take an active role in shaping the direction of the School. Their leadership, combined with the tireless efforts of our Foundation Board and parent support groups – including the Junior and Senior School Friends of Saints, Friends of Music, Mission Guild and sport support groups – helps create a warm and welcoming environment where families can connect and contribute.
These volunteer groups are instrumental in cultivating a sense of belonging and community spirit. I encourage all parents to become involved, whether through social events, cooking a BBQ or by simply lending a hand where needed. The strength of our community lies in participation, and together, we can ensure that both our sons and our families benefit from a rich and connected school experience. You can learn more about these groups on Keystone: Friends of Saints and Mission Guild.
Nurturing Lifelong Physical Wellbeing
Education extends far beyond the classroom, and it is essential that we instil in our boys the importance of physical activity. In an increasingly sedentary world, we must encourage them to move, run and engage in a variety of activities that promote their overall wellbeing. With a wealth of opportunities available across all sports, students have access to tailored development programs designed to support their individual athletic journeys. It is heartening to see the Burchnall Sports Centre gym busier than ever, reflecting the enthusiasm with which many of our students are embracing their physical development.
Our Athletic Development Team continues to lead the way in this space, having recently introduced bi-annual Athletic Development Testing for students in Years 7 to 10. These assessments measure key athletic attributes, including speed, lower body power and predicted Peak Height Velocity – a critical stage of adolescent growth. This initiative not only provides valuable insights for students and their families but also ensures we are supporting the long-term athletic development of every boy in our care.
I look forward to seeing you on the sidelines this weekend.
Tim Browning
Headmaster
