22 March 2022
It has been challenging for our students and staff to navigate classroom contacts, close contacts and isolation requirements as COVID-19 cases have spiked in recent weeks. These challenges have been amplified by frustration surrounding close contact restrictions and we can only hope these restraints are relaxed in the near future. I acknowledge the exceptional efforts of our staff; they have shown great flexibility and banded together to find solutions to support our programs, working tirelessly under significant pressure to manage the current circumstances.
This solution focused mindset has been observed in our Outdoor Education Program with the necessary adjustments made to ensure our Years 5 and 6 camps could proceed. This afternoon our Year 6 students return from their week-long Kangaroo Island venture and I’ve no doubt they will be brimming with enthusiasm to recount stories of their adventures. Our highly valued Outdoor Education Program is designed to enrich students’ spirit and broaden the depth of their experiences within a natural environment. I commend our Years 5 and 6 students for overcoming any initial nerves to embrace their experience and opportunities to pursue growth; in doing so they have developed personal attributes of courage, determination and commitment.
Last Saturday’s Head of the River regatta marked 100 years since the first Head of the River race was contested between St Peter’s College and Adelaide High School. Our 26 crews, the most entries of any school in this milestone year, performed admirably and are to be commended on the integrity, sportsmanship and respect they displayed across the regatta. As we continue the longstanding intercollegiate program in the coming week, I encourage all participants to uphold these values as they put in their best effort and keep this once yearly fixture in perspective.
Earlier this week I sent this communique to all parents and guardians in response to the Federal Government’s proposed religious discrimination bill and the community controversy surrounding a Christian School in Queensland. As stated in my letter, as a Christian community in the Anglican tradition it is important that St Peter’s College respond to these matters to highlight that our School does not share these views. Embedded in our Anglican Framework it is apparent that St Peter’s College values inclusiveness and acknowledges the gift that diversity brings to our School community.
It was wonderful to join parents for our Welcome Cocktail Evening held last Friday. I trust you enjoyed the opportunity to strengthen and create new connections within our community. We have ‘booked’ another perfect Autumn evening for tonight’s Alfresco Concert. I hope you can join me to enjoy a spectacular array of live music as the sun goes down over the lawns of the Hill Wing Music Centre.
Enjoy your weekend; and to those members of our community who are currently isolating due to testing positive for COVID-19, I wish you a swift recovery.
Tim Browning
Headmaster