As always, it was lovely to see the boys return to school following Easter and the Term One holidays. The early part of the term has been notable for the way the boys have swiftly got back into the rhythm and routine of school life. The winter sports program has commenced with our Soccer and Football teams recorded a mixed bag of results.
Meanwhile, in the Performing Arts Department, rehearsals for our 2021 musical ‘Oliver’ and preparations for the Autumn Concert are gathering pace.
During our term holidays we celebrated the three holiest days and events in the Christian calendar. This week and last, we recalled the significance of the Easter events via year level Resurrection masses. In doing so, we were reminded that Easter is not just one day; it is a whole season of 50 days which lasts until Pentecost. Easter, of course, is about new life. We rejoice in the new life of Jesus. We rejoice that all of us are nourished by the life of God whenever we share in the Easter sacrament of the Eucharist. We take stock and we endeavour to ‘rise up’ in areas of our lives which need our prayers and attention.
With ANZAC Day falling on Sunday this year, we commemorated the sacrifices made by men and women during the conflicts in which Australia has been embroiled in a moving service last Friday morning. This is very much a personal view, but, when I was growing up, I can recall feeling uncomfortable at what I perceived to be the glorification of militarism which, to me, seemed to tinge our ANZAC Day celebrations in the 1960s and 1970s. More recently, ANZAC Day seems to enable us to solemnly reflect upon the quiet bravery of legions of men and women whilst also causing us to contemplate the folly of war and the beauty of peace. The boys are great young fellows: their respectfulness during our service was humbling to behold.
With exams, the General Achievement Test, NAPLAN and a battery of work requirements coming up, Term Two is a crucial one in the academic life of the College. For boys in Years 9-11, it is important to recall that early entry to VCE studies and access to particular subjects is contingent on Semester One marks. Further, promotion to the next year level will be challenged in instances where boys have two or more subjects lower than 50%. Finally, with VCAA exam preparation beginning in Week 9 of Term Three for Year 12 boys, this is the last ‘normal’ term for our VCE Class of 2021! Make the most of it, boys!
Mr Neil Carter
Acting Principal