Principal
This time one year ago, we were entering a period of community wide restrictions in Queensland as we all entered the unknown of COVID-19. The 2020 Head of the River was the last occasion that we gathered in large numbers until very late in the school year. We all know how 2020 unfolded for our families, our workplaces and our schools. At the commencement of this year, I indicated to staff, parents and students that we would prepare for ‘turbulence’ in respect to restrictions and possible short term lockdowns.
Since that time, the vaccine roll out across the country has commenced and perhaps we are all feeling more confident about the immediate future. I do hope that this confidence is well placed and we can avoid a return to restrictions and lockdowns. In the event that this is not the case, in recent weeks the staff of the College has prepared an action plan in case of a short-term lockdown. In the Learning and Teaching section of this week’s newsletter, Mr Sepetauc outlines some of the information that is relevant to how we would continue classes during a lockdown. Obviously, more information will be communicated if this was to happen. I trust that this gives parents some reassurance that we are well prepared for ‘turbulence.'
We are in the midst of a very cluttered couple of weeks of school life with multiple events and occasions - some large and others more intimate. It is a time of competing interests for some boys, which places pressure on them. Similarly, there is pressure developing for other boys with deadlines and assessment looming as we head towards the last weeks of the term. Some boys find it difficult to prioritise the basics of schoolwork, homework and study as they should be doing. They are encouraged to contact their teachers to seek their support before problems occur. Likewise, parents are encouraged to contact teachers if there are concerns with your son’s schoolwork or his well-being.
Last week’s Great Debate was a great evening and despite the success of the Old Boys’ team in the debate, I can reassure the community that the school is not about to become co-educational anytime soon.
Our GPS Swim team was also very successful last Friday with a commanding win at the championships. Placing first or second in seven of the ten relays was evidence of the strength and depth of the team. An outstanding group of Open swimmers led the team and Captains, Dylan Andrea, Finlay Schuster and Harrison Turner, leave a great legacy off the pool as well as in the water. Similarly, Mr David Proud and his team of coaches and year level managers coached and prepared the squad with great care. Earlier on Friday, the junior team did a great job in finishing second in a tightly contested carnival.
We wish our GPS rowers all the best for this Saturday’s Head of the River championships at Wyaralong Dam. Like the swimmers, these boys have prepared for months for this weekend’s race. After such commitment, the final result can bring a great high or a tough reality check. Either way, we expect the best of our boys as gracious and humble individuals. We are grateful for the efforts of Jesse Meyer (Captain of Boats) and Darcy Carmody (Vice Captain of Boats) in leading the shed. We are grateful for the work of Mr James Burton and all the coaches in preparing the crews for Saturday. Thanks also to the many hard working parents of our rowers for hosting last Saturday’s regatta as well as for their commitment throughout the season. Saturday’s GPS regatta and the dinner in the evening is the culmination of a long season of many hours work from the entire rowing community.
Next week features the annual Showcase on Tuesday evening in its new format and venue. It is traditionally one of our biggest nights of the year and I am confident that it will be well attended and a fun night for everyone. The Year 12 leaders are very excited about the night and looking forward to the performances of their respective Houses.
Finally, earlier this week I shared with parents a letter on the important issue of consent. For those who missed it and for other members of the community who wish to know our response please see a copy of the letter here.
Mr Peter Fullagar
Principal