From the Principal
It was wonderful to have the opportunity to celebrate with our Class of 2020 this week, with our Final Farewell Assembly at the School on Wednesday as well as our Valedictory Dinner at Luna Park that evening. I was incredibly moved by the quality of our students’ speeches, the way they shared from the heart with gratitude, their genuine affection for their peers and respect for the staff. Billy Gleeson, 2015 School Captain, was the memorable guest speaker, with a strong message about being open to change and creating new career pathways beyond the school gates. His current role working in marketing and technology did not exist when he was at school – a strong reminder of the importance of our focus on supporting students to think critically, creatively and be responsive and adaptable.
In a thoughtful gesture, due to tight attendance constraints, Chair of the Board Ms Glenda McLoughlin, invited current Year 12 parent and Board Director, Professor Glenn Wightwick, to represent her on the evening and to speak on behalf of the Board and present a gift from the School to the students. The warmth and sincerity of his address set the tone for the event. We were treated to stunning performances by our student musicians and an inspiring address by Year 12 Year Advisor Eddy Atkins, who highlighted the massive challenges faced by his grandparents through the Second World War and the joy they have embraced in their lives following this period. In a strong reflection of the importance of the partnership with our parents and carers, it was moving to hear Jonathan Algar speak on behalf of the Year 12 parents and reflect on his sons’ experience during their 15 years at the School. Yes, sons, as Harry and Jack are twins and they started in Preschool together at Redlands House. My thanks to all involved in making the evening such a special event.
Another very special event being held on campus this week has been the Year 9 Indigenous cultural immersion ‘Midawarr’ camp. Coordinated by Culture College Aboriginal Corporation, our campus has been virtually linked to Arnhem Land for the students to learn from the Yolngu people through a virtual cultural immersion classroom experience. The students have worked virtually with Yolngu mentors and onsite staff from Culture College to gain a deep understanding of Yolngu language and culture and learn about the Yolngu laws and customs. To provide further support, members of Sydney’s Gadigal and Dharug communities have participated in the on-campus cultural immersion with practical workshops including a Smoking Ceremony, dancing, ochre painting and eating bush tucker.
Learning about Indigenous history and contemporary communities are such important lessons for our students. It is a privilege to listen and learn directly from First Nations, not only to deepen our understanding of the values and beliefs of the oldest living culture on the planet but in order to move forward together towards genuine Reconciliation.
We have been excited to pilot this program with Culture College, which has the potential to support Yolngu people in their vision of expanding knowledge and understanding of their strong culture and connection to country.
Mr Stephen Webber
Photo caption: This week’s Year 9 cultural immersion began with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony.