I trust that all the families had an opportunity for break and had a chance to regroup. A fresh school year is an exciting opportunity to make a new start, lay a solid foundation and build upon a solid base. I am very optimistic about the year ahead and all that it holds because I know that despite the inevitable challenges God has made a way for us to move forward.
The new oval with its freshly laid grass is a sight to behold. The space is starting to come alive and is calling for a vision for future events, sports and general activity that will be used for many years to come. We anticipate our new sports complex will become available sometime in Term 2, and this will expand our vision in terms of what we might be able to achieve.
We have had a positive time in the first days of school with the Ready-Set-Connect program. This has given students an opportunity to connect with their Pastoral Care teachers and old friends while welcoming of new faces to the Thomas Hassall community. Thanks to all the team and especially Mr McCormack in their efforts to get the year started with such a positive focus.
Next week most of the Senior School will have the opportunity to attend camps specially designed to build skills and resilience while at the same time promoting friendships and team. I understand there is a temptation to keep students at home when they are feeling anxious but camps are an important part of the education experience. The camps are very carefully planned and supported with terrific programs and well trained staff.
The day after the Camps we will have the Senior School Swimming Carnival. This is a challenge in terms of the timing (being the day after the camp), but the day is usually great fun and one of the highlights of the College calendar. I am anticipating that students will both support and participate at the appropriate level. There is always great things for students to get involved with even when they are not confident in the water.
Finally, we will have an opportunity to celebrate with students who achieved outstanding results in the HSC in the next few weeks. As we have been chatting with these students their positive messages reflect some of the strategies we have put in place over the last few years. I will continue to share some of these insights with you in the months ahead.
“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” Zephaniah 3:17