19 March 2021
St Peter’s College is much more than a school for boys; it is a thriving community that works in partnership with families to create an exceptional community of learning. We aim to be a warm and welcoming community where parents are actively encouraged to engage in school life. After a COVID-19 imposed hiatus in 2020, it has been wonderful to witness the resumption of this active engagement over the past few weeks across a wide range of events.
In the past fortnight the School has hosted two information sessions for our Years 10 to 12 parents; the first was a session facilitated by Paul Dillon, an expert in advising young people around risk-taking behaviours related to drugs and alcohol. Paul shared valuable practical advice on how to best support the young people in our care as they respond to the growing pressures around this social activity. The second occasion was our annual Careers Evening. In what was our 21st year of hosting a Careers Evening, students and parents gained valuable insight into tertiary education and work opportunities across a range of industries. I thank all parents who committed their time to these important educational events.
At Friday night’s Alfresco Concert, family and friends were treated to a spectacular array of live music as the sun set over the lawns of the Hill Wing Music Centre. The exceptional performances of 11 ensembles and two soloists showcased the superb talent of our outstanding Senior School Music program.
Over 900 tickets were sold to last Saturday’s Junior School Movie Night and Fun Fair, with close to 1000 people in attendance. Despite the inclement morning weather, families were treated to a spectacular autumn evening that helped create a wonderful, connected community atmosphere.
I am delighted to confirm the traditional St Peter’s College Community Day will be held on Saturday 1 May. This much-anticipated community event is an annual celebration that brings together Senior School students, families and staff and provides our community the opportunity to both strengthen and create new connections.
None of these community events would be possible without the tireless efforts of our volunteer groups, namely the Junior and Senior School Friends of Saints, Friends of Music, Friends of the Chapel and the Mission Guild. These passionate groups of volunteers are instrumental in organising these events aimed at promoting and fostering a sense of community among parents and families. In addition, the Mission Guild raises vital funds through community initiatives to support Anglican charities.
Our School Captains Sam Jackson and Rushan Khurram are to be commended for coordinating and co-hosting the 10th National Student Leadership Summit on Friday 8 March. More than 100 students from across South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales attended to exchange ideas, and inspire and challenge each other. Our Captains undertook the challenging task of co-hosting the conference with facilitator Louka Parry (Rex J Lipman Fellow in 2018) and set a wonderful example to our students and those from interstate schools.
Across the past year I have witnessed a wave of athletic development taking place across all sports with individuals adopting tailored improvement programs and striving for personal development. The Burchnall Sports Centre gym has never been busier! These dedicated efforts will come to the fore this weekend as our rowing crews participate in the 99th Head of the River competition and in the coming week as our summer Intercol fixtures are contested. As we approach this longstanding intercollegiate program I ask students to keep this once yearly fixture in perspective and not lose sight of broader horizons on the state, national and international levels. I encourage all participants to play hard, put in their best effort and push themselves and their team while maintaining the highest levels of integrity, sportsmanship and respect.
Congratulations to Xander Grice (Year 11) who has been selected in the South Australian Schools’ State Debating Squad. He will now complete a rigorous training process in preparation for the National Schools’ Debating Championships in Hobart late May. Well done to Nicholas Koh (Year 11) who was one of only 25 students from across Australia selected to participate in the recent 2021 Asian Pacific Mathematics Olympiad.
Tim Browning
Headmaster
To find out how to get involved in our volunteer community groups email communityrelations@stpeters.sa.edu.au or call 8404 0400.