PRINCIPAL’S BLOG

This term has been a term of mixed emotions. A term filled with many successes and personal triumphs, where a number of pupils have given of their best and shown immense character. It has however also been a term of great sadness, as we as a school community were faced with the devastating loss of Annabel Dowley, one of our precious Grade 5 pupils. There is no doubt that the loss of Annabel had an enormous impact on every member of the Clarries Family, and that her passing caused many of us to seriously reconsider our priorities and life choices.

Last week I was sitting in our Junior Quad before the start of school, chatting to a few of our new Grade 1 pupils. It is always incredibly refreshing chatting to these young 6 year olds, who are right at the start of their school career, and who see the world very differently to us oldies.

During the 1st Term I was reminded of the true value that sport plays in the life of a child. In our overly competitive world, where results are seen as the holy grail, and take precedence over all else, we need to be regularly reminded of why, we as a school, play the sports we love and cherish.

I was recently at a well-known local restaurant, waiting to collect a take-away. I could not help notice a family sitting at a nearby table, a mom and dad, and two children (around 11 to 12 years of age).

I recently lost a very good friend whom I have known for 35 years. We were at school and university together, and he left behind an amazing wife, and two beautiful young daughters.

Towards the end of the summer sporting season, I was fortunate enough to watch one of our junior cricket teams in action during a mid-week match. It was a tightly contested match, and in the end went down to the last ball.

Towards the end of last year, our 2021 Grade 7 pupils continued a wonderful Clarries tradition, where they request fellow pupils and members of staff to sign a Clarries cushion, which becomes a treasured keepsake of memories for years

A few days ago I found myself in the Grade 1 quad, prior to the start of the school day. It really is wonderful interacting with our precious young pupils, and watch them excitedly share their thoughts on the day ahead with each

One of the incredible perks of a Principal’s position is being able to wish our pupils a happy birthday on their big day. To share in their excitement and unbridled joy, whether they be in Grade 1 or 7, is a privilege.