30 June 2023
I am proud of the way students have embraced Term 2 packed with learning and activity. It has been a busy semester across both the Junior School and Senior School and I thank students, staff and parents for making the semester such a great success.
In what was an exhibition of pure, unadulterated joy I was privileged to attend the spectacular Years 5 and 6 Annual Concert this week. It was an incredible display of storytelling through music, dance and visual art. The audience was blown away by the opening Solid Rock rendition before going on a musical journey showcasing well-known Australian classics that closed with an emotionally charged performance of protest song From Little Things Big Things Grow.
It was wonderful to see boys compelled out of their comfort zone into an environment where it is considered normal to engage in pursuits of singing, dancing and playing music; yet another clear reminder of the power of an all-boys education.
Congratulations boys, Mr Varga and your team on an outstanding concert. It truly showcased the power music has to bring people together, bridge divides and promote social change. The performance was all the more impressive given the rehearsal program was significantly interrupted by a state funeral.
Friends and family gathered in Memorial Hall last Friday to farewell old scholar, yachting icon and wine boss Sir James Hardy OBE (HWK 1950). The state funeral, conducted by Father Theo, was a very dignified occasion with the three eulogies beautifully articulating the industrious and adventurous life led by Sir James. Affectionately known as ‘Gentleman Jim’, Sir James earned his enduring nickname because “he valued decency and manners.”
Knighted by the Queen for his service to the community, Sir James Hardy was a wonderful role model to many through his many acts of philanthropy. Similarly, Bishop Augustus Short is widely recognised by our community for his service in establishing St Peter’s College. Yesterday marked the 176th Anniversary of Bishop Short’s consecration in 1847 on St Peter’s Day (29 June) in St Peter’s Church, Westminster. Some six months later Bishop Short arrived in Adelaide with a £2000 bequest from the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge that he used to purchase land in Hackney and establish SPSC.
Yesterday we recognised the outstanding service of Year 12 student Daniel Spiby in the presentation of the School’s Service Learning Medal. Daniel is a wonderful role model to all students through his acts of service. Each and every SPSC student should recognise that they too have access to a service pathway that is duly acknowledged through certificates, colours, symbols and on occasion, medals. Across the School there are obvious signs which point students to a pathway of service – Memorial Hall, the result of the supreme sacrifice given by so many members of our community more than 100 years ago in serving their country, the brass plaque in Memorial Arch recognising all those who served in world wars – and students should feel an overwhelming sense of service every time they frequent these spaces. Every time they walk through the School’s gates, they should recognise the obvious signs calling for them to serve others.
This term, as part of the Religious and Values Education curriculum, Year 5 students have been learning about Baptism and Holy Communion. This curriculum learning culminated with today’s Admission to First Communion. Two students were baptised and a total of 15 students were confirmed in our special St Peter’s Day celebration.
My sincere thanks to those who have already donated to our Annual Giving Appeal supporting the creation of the St Peter’s College Foundation Thomas Worrall Scholarship. Today marks the end of the financial year and the final opportunity to make your tax-deductible donation count for this year. Your gift, no matter how big or small, will help provide a promising student, regardless of circumstance or background, the opportunity to access a SPSC education.
This afternoon we welcome home our Year 10 students who have spent the past 21 days exploring the Ikara-Flinders Ranges. Our Year 10 Pushing the Boundaries Journey, the conclusion of our Outdoor Education Program, provides boys with an incredible opportunity to face unexpected challenges, overcome obstacles, form strong bonds and create lasting memories. We look forward to hearing all about their adventures on their return.
Congratulations to Jim Kelly (Year 11) and Jeff Rozenbilds (Year 10) on their selection in the Under 16 State Football Team. Good luck in your remaining matches against Victoria Country and Metro in the coming week.
As we commence the mid-year break, I thank all families for your support of the School in what has been a busy Semester. I wish you and your family a restful break.
Tim Browning
Headmaster