21 March 2025
As the summer sports season draws to a close, I commend all students for their dedication and participation. Research consistently highlights the long-term health benefits of sport, and beyond physical wellbeing, it instils invaluable lessons in perseverance, teamwork and resilience. From our Firsts to our Fifths, the energy and competitive spirit displayed across all teams reflect the vibrant sporting culture of St Peter’s College.
Recent events, including the SAAS 1st XI Cricket Final and the Head of the River Rowing Regatta, have showcased the depth of character within our community. I was particularly pleased to see so many students attending as spectators, to support their peers. At Head of the River, despite challenging weather conditions, our boys stood together, sang with pride and supported not only the blue and white but also their counterparts from Wilderness School spectating alongside us. The Principal of Wilderness expressed her admiration for the way our students engaged with her school’s rowers and supporters. A highlight of the day was our Captains leading the St Peter’s College spectators across to congratulate and acknowledge the victors of the main event, in what was an excellent demonstration of order and reverence.
A defining moment of our character was also on display at the 1st XI Cricket Final. When a rival batsman, nearing a century, was finally dismissed, our spectators moved to the opposition dugout to applaud him off the field. This act of sportsmanship surprised our opponents but embodied the values we uphold at SPSC. Applauding skill and effort and uplifting others – regardless of team affiliation – should be the standard in our community.
At these events, our students stood out in their presentation. St Peter’s College remains one of the only schools in South Australia to wear a tie with our summer uniform and our boys upheld this tradition with pride – shirts tucked in, socks up and a standard of presentation that reflects the values of our School.
Beyond the sporting arena, our students continue to excel in leadership. I acknowledge our School Captains, Aadi and Tiger, for their exceptional work in organising and hosting the 14th National Student Leadership Summit. With close to 150 students from across the country, this event was one of the most diverse and collaborative conferences we have hosted.
Congratulations to Year 9 students Tao Wong and Mason Qian for their outstanding results in the invitational-only Australian Mathematical Olympiad, with Tao earning a gold certificate (top 10% in Australia) and Mason receiving silver (top 25%). Both boys have been invited to the Australian Maths Trust’s High Performance Mathematics Selection School, and Tao has been selected to compete in the prestigious Asian-Pacific Mathematical Olympiad as one of 25 students.
Well done to our track and field athletes for their outstanding performances at the State Championships, securing 31 podium finishes – 10 Gold, 11 Silver, and 10 Bronze – along with multiple Athletics Australia National Entry Standards and Finals qualifications.
As we enter the final weeks of the summer season, I encourage all students to reflect on their engagement within our community. What events will you spectate? Who will you support? Will you share in both the joys and disappointments of your peers? These are the questions I will be asking in the coming weeks. Taking an interest in others is a fundamental part of a St Peter’s College education – a human endeavour built on connection, respect and shared experiences.
Best wishes for the remaining Intercol fixtures – compete with composure, support with integrity and uphold the values that define our School.
Tim Browning
Headmaster
