The past two weeks have seen a raft of opportunities for our Senior School community, such as the Tranby Fair marking 25 years of Tranby College, YOH Fest, the ACC Athletics Carnival, the Year 9 Dinner Dance, as well as Prefect applications and subject selections. It seems there is no such thing as a “quiet” week at Tranby. My thanks to the parents who journey with the students as they embark on their time at school – for extinguishing fears and for encouraging enthusiasm. Additionally, as our Year 12s close in on their final assessments, we are starting to see that for some, the realisation that school is almost complete is upon them. My only piece of advice to our departing Year 12s is to continue to be the best version of yourself and that you will never be defined by a number. I urge you to seek out your teachers who are here to assist you, there is no time like the present to consider this.

In my last newsletter piece, amongst other things, I wrote about Respect and the notion of respecting ourselves before respecting others. I encouraged our students, and the broader community, to consider the perception of ourselves that we give to others based on our actions. Over the past week, I’ve had the privilege to interview prospective College Captains as part of the Prefect application process. Within this, we asked students which of the College Values resonates with them the most. Overwhelmingly, the value of Integrity was held in the utmost regard. When asked to define this, students effectively said that integrity is being honest and truthful, even when nobody is watching. That is something that we should all strive to do, always, as this epitomises self-respect. I further encourage our College community to practice respect, as this inherently practices integrity.

A vital component of the Tranby College approach to education is that of wellbeing. Wellbeing takes on many forms, but ultimately, is about being in tune with our mental condition and taking steps to be proactive within this space. This week, the Pastoral Care team collaborated with stakeholders to host Wellbeing Week. Students have had opportunities to participate in various activities, exercises, and social opportunities to enhance their wellbeing. My thanks to the College community for supporting this highly valued event in our calendar.

With our holiday period only a week away, I wish each family a restful break with time spent together as families. To our Year 12s and their examination block, look after yourselves and acknowledge that your best is more than enough.

I look forward to welcoming you all back amidst the excitement of Term 4.