04 December 2020
In what has been an incredibly challenging year it has been wonderful to witness the culmination of 12 months’ hard work in end of year showcase events. These ceremonies are a key component of our inspiration to be an exceptional community of learning and recognise both corporate and individual endeavour.
In the last two weeks alone, I have witnessed the enormous commitment and talent of our students through the Reception Nativity Concert, the ELC Christmas Concert, the Junior School Musical Showcase, the Year 6 Graduation, the Year 4 Band Concert and the Years 3 to 6 Speech Day. Similarly in the Senior School I have been impressed by the disciplined and creative endeavours demonstrated through the Christmas Carols production, the Years 7 to 11 Speech Day and Intercol Cricket. For this long-standing sporting tradition, dating back to the late 1870s, to proceed despite the recent COVID-19 restrictions was a remarkable feat. Each event has provided an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of our students and all they have accomplished through dedication, commitment and perseverance.
Whilst acknowledging and celebrating achievements at the Years 3 to 6 Speech Day, I highlighted to the boys just how important participation and learning new skills is to their overall education. Students at St Peter’s College are fortunate to have an extensive range of co-curricular activities on offer including learning a musical instrument, participating in robotics classes, honing their skills in chess and refining their sporting abilities, to name but a few. I congratulate every student who has tried something new this year and encourage them to think about what they would like to try and improve upon in the year ahead. I also acknowledge the efforts of our talented, caring and committed staff as these opportunities would not have been possible without their exceptional dedication and support in the most challenging year of all our careers. St Peter’s College staff have demonstrated enormous agility this year and it has been their ongoing commitment to all boys that has underpinned both our relationships and programs.
I take this opportunity to thank and farewell staff who are leaving the School at the end of 2020 and wish them every success in the next phase of their personal and professional journeys. I would like to specifically acknowledge the following long serving staff whose contributions to the School have been extraordinary: Sally Bartz (36 years of service), Sheryle Yorston (23 years of service) and Helen Cocca (18 years of service).
To all our parents and wider stakeholders: thank you for your patience and support. Thank you sincerely for your ongoing partnership and commitment to your son’s learning journey.
I wish everyone in the St Peter’s College community a safe and happy Christmas. May the promise held in the birth of Jesus give us all new hope and faith for the future and all that lies ahead in 2021.
Merry Christmas.
Tim Browning
Headmaster