Our Year 1 students had the special opportunity to step back in time as they welcomed six old scholars to share what life at St Peter’s College was like decades ago.
Joining us for the session were: Robert Hay (HWK 1970), step-grandfather of Banjo K; Tom Jeffries (HWK 1998), father of Banjo J; Oliver Sheahan (HWK 2007), uncle of Lachie; Christopher Langley (SHT 1994), uncle of James; Trent Fahey (HWD 1996), father of Flynn; and Michael Van Dissel (FRR 1999), father of Michael.
The boys came well prepared with thoughtful questions and were fascinated to hear stories about school life in years gone by. Our guests shared old photos, spoke about the uniforms they once wore and brought history to life through memorable anecdotes.
They spoke about their favourite subjects and school events, but it was the stories about what happened when you were naughty that really captured the boys’ attention. Tales of the cane, chalk dusters being thrown, and mothers knowing their sons had been in trouble because they came home with chalk on their shirts had the room buzzing with curiosity and laughter.
The boys were intrigued by both the differences and the surprising similarities between school life then and now. While many things have changed, the spirit of St Peter’s College and the experiences shared across generations remain strongly connected.
Above all, one message stood out from our guests: be kind, listen carefully and take every opportunity that comes your way. It was a powerful and valuable lesson for the next generation of boys beginning their journey at St Peter’s College.
Elisa Lawrie
Teacher – Year 1
