From the Headmaster

It was a privilege to welcome the Rt Hon Dame Jacinda Ardern to St Peter’s College as part of the Rex J Lipman Fellows Program. During her visit, Jacinda spoke powerfully about leadership, reflecting on the historic stereotypes and biases that have often shaped public expectations of leaders. As Prime Minister, she demonstrated a style of leadership that challenged convention – one that was values-based, compassionate and deeply human, while remaining resolute and strong. Whether responding to moments of national crisis or normalising the realities of balancing leadership and motherhood on the world stage, she modelled a form of leadership that was both courageous and authentic. Her visit reinforced an idea we speak often about at St Peter’s College: that a great school should not merely reflect society, but our students should be encouraged to reflect upon society and the kind of society they wish to shape. For our boys, Jacinda’s example was a reminder that strength and character are not opposing qualities, and that true leadership requires the courage to challenge prejudice, resist populism and remain steadfast in values and purpose.

Many of these themes were explored recently when St Peter’s College co-hosted the 2026 International Boys’ Schools Coalition Australasian Regional Conference with PAC. The partnership between our two schools reflects a shared commitment to educating boys in all their complexity, energy and potential. We were delighted to welcome over 160 delegates from across Australia and New Zealand for several days of discussion, reflection and collaboration centred on the theme, Cultivating Humanity: A Compelling Responsibility in Boys’ Education. Across the conference, educators explored the challenges boys face in navigating rigid expectations of masculinity and considered how schools can create cultures where boys experience connection, purpose and the freedom to grow into authentic and compassionate young men.

The conference also reinforced the profound responsibility shared by schools in shaping not only successful students, but good people. Reflecting on this theme, I was reminded of a quote from the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Rwanda: “There is no humanity without forgiveness, there is no forgiveness without justice and there is no justice without humanity.” It is a powerful reminder of the complexity inherent in boys’ education, particularly the balance between accountability, restoration and care. These are the deeply human questions we navigate each day as we support boys, families and staff, and they sit at the heart of our ongoing commitment to cultivating humanity in young people.

This week, we celebrated National Boarding Week and the wonderful diversity our boarders bring to the life of SPSC. Through sharing their stories, our boarders gave students and staff a deeper understanding of the courage required to leave home and adjust to life in a new environment. Boarding is about far more than accommodation; it is about belonging, connection and growth. Each day, our boarders demonstrate resilience, independence and a willingness to embrace challenge, while the friendships formed within our boarding house create a strong sense of family and community. We acknowledge and thank the staff who care so deeply for our students, and the families who entrust us with their sons during such an important chapter of their lives. Above all, we celebrate our boarders themselves and the remarkable contribution they make to the character and spirit of our School community.

By any measure, the results achieved by our Music program at Generations in Jazz were exceptional. More than 90 students and staff travelled to Mount Gambier to take part in the renowned event, joining over 5,000 students from across Australia. Our musicians represented the School with distinction. Big Band 1 claimed 1st place in Division 1 and was named Best Rhythm Section in the division for the third consecutive year. Big Band 2 and Big Band 3 each placed second in Divisions 2 and 3 respectively, while Big Band 4 won Division 4+.2.

In addition, 13 coveted Superband positions were awarded to SPSC students across the divisions, alongside honours including Future Finalist, Most Promising Piano Player and Most Outstanding Trumpet Player. Congratulations to all students, staff and families involved. These national achievements reflect not only exceptional talent, but also the depth, dedication and culture of excellence that underpin our Music program. Our boys continue to embrace the extraordinary opportunities for growth and performance available through music at St Peter’s College. Click here for all results.

Last Friday, more than 800 guests attended our Mother’s Day Breakfast. It was wonderful to see mothers, grandmothers, aunties and special friends gathered together as we acknowledged the important role women play in the lives and upbringing of our boys. I trust that our students took the opportunity last Sunday to express their gratitude and appreciation for the love, care and support they receive from the women who guide and encourage them each day.

I look forward to seeing many of you on the sidelines and around the School community over the weekend ahead.

Tim Browning
Headmaster