From the Principal
The little things matter.
This week it was wonderful to once again be able to host the Platinum Girls Luncheon to recognise Alumni who left the School 50 plus years ago. The stories flowed about schooling in a different era and the common threads that bound them together and to their school. Relationships with the teachers was at the forefront, and as is the case today, moments in time in which a small interaction and positive affirmation meant so much.
I greatly appreciated receiving feedback from another Alumni, Karen Gojnich, Captain of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, regarding the conduct of our sailing team at the recent NSW Secondary School State Championships. The team finished in sixth place overall which was a fine result out of 24 teams and you can see them in action below. Not only did they perform well on the water, it was the respect and responsibility they displayed post-race, in packing away equipment and helping other teams that was commented on. These little things matter, and form the bedrock of further character development.
It is essential that we continue to reinforce attention to the little things with students. Looking people in the eye when addressing them and confidently greeting them. Showing appreciation for others, recognising other students’ achievements with a supportive comment. Looking out for ways that they can help out in any new situation and showing compassion when others are struggling or need support. These little things grow and ripple out to ensure we live out our core values together.
It has been most enjoyable to welcome parents on campus this week for the Yr 6 Transition and Kindergarten Information Sessions. However unfortunately we have had to cancel the Junior Campus Mother’s Day breakfast and Prep and Redlands House classroom visits tomorrow morning. This is due to the new COVID-19 restrictions announced today by the Premier, related to recent positive cases in NSW. May all mothers have a fantastic day on Sunday and may you be spoilt and showered with appreciation. I am sad to admit, it took until I left home for me to fully appreciate my mum, but she definitely knows I do now!
Our P-12 Coordinator of Music, Darren Kuilenburg, will be leaving Redlands on 28 May after over 13 years of distinguished service, to take up the position of Director of Music at International Grammar School. In his time here, Darren has certainly made his mark on our Music program, resulting in its significant growth in both quality and scale. Over the years, Darren has created and directed many outstanding Music events, most notably the Junior and Senior Music Festivals and the exceptional Musical performances at Speech Night. Darren has also made a major contribution to the development of our STEAM program, and his care and dedication to his staff and students will be missed.
While we are sad to see Darren leave Redlands, we wish him all the very best for his future and his new challenge. Darren will finish at Redlands the night of the Senior Music Festival, a wonderfully fitting farewell to an outstanding Music educator.
Mr Stephen Webber
Cover Photo Caption: We were honoured to welcome a large number of Old Girls who attended Redlands more than 50 years ago for our annual Platinum Girls Luncheon this week.