The school journey seems such a long period in the eyes of a student, yet only a fleeting moment in the eyes of a parent. This week we commenced valedictory celebrations with the Senior School House dinners. I have thoroughly enjoyed attending these dinners which continue to be intimate and personal occasions. They provide a wonderful opportunity to recognise the achievements of students as well as give Year 12 boys the opportunity to thank staff who have supported them throughout their time at St Peter’s College. In addition, there are a number of very personal reflections provided by students and gratitude letters handed over to parents.
Amongst everything that has taken place, 2020 is the 100 year anniversary of our House system. This system is central to the School’s pastoral care program which promotes students’ social, academic, spiritual and emotional wellbeing. Students come together throughout the year to celebrate their House through annual traditions and community activities. These events help students develop a sense of belonging within the School. I look forward to celebrating with staff, students and Year 12 parents as these dinners continue next week.
It was wonderful to watch our talented musicians perform at “Jazz in Mem Hall” on Friday 4 September the first Senior School concert for the year. It was evident that our musicians in the School bands and jazz vocal ensembles were delighted to perform in front of an audience once again. Earlier today, I was delighted to hear our Junior School students sing in the House Singing competition. Each House performed a song from the 1950s of their choosing and were each adjudicated on their performance of the School song. Congratulations to Brooks House for winning the 2020 House Singing competition.
Another long-standing tradition commenced on Wednesday evening with the opening of the Winter Intercol, commencing with Debating. These traditional fixtures, which acknowledge and celebrate the local rivalry and partnership between St Peter’s College and Prince Alfred College, date back to the late 1870s. One of the longest unbroken fixtures in the world is the four-day cricket match held each year. The Intercol is a reminder that life continues in times of great uncertainty. Intercol fixtures continued during WWI and WWII, and the School is delighted to be able to host the 2020 Winter Intercol during a year marked by a global pandemic. I am sure this event will play an important part of the Intercol’s history for this very reason.
I am proud of the way students have conducted themselves and supported players during the fixtures so far. Of particular note has been the humility and grace displayed by each team immediately following the fixtures. It is absolutely vital that the common foundation of these events is integrity, both in and out of the arena. I look forward to watching the remaining fixtures over the weekend.