I recall when Term 1 was known as the ‘quiet term’ among school circles, yet I’m not sure that title still stands as our first term was a flurry of activity filled with various learning and wellbeing pursuits both at home and abroad. We had students achieve in a variety of areas, from The Arts and Debating to the sporting grounds and in the pool. Our South Africa Global Tour contingent left with more than 400kg of donations of shoes and clothes on their trip over the holidays, the materials lovingly received by those in need. A big thank you to the community who helped us to pass on the goods.

The Arts Tour also took place over the holidays, with across-campus contingent of staff and students treated to a smorgasbord of creativity. After taking in the sights of Melbourne, the group saw stage shows of West Side Story and Muriel’s Wedding, participated in a samba percussion workshop and visited the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. They then flew to Sydney for NIDA workshops, popped in to Brett Whiteley’s studio and enjoyed Sydney Theatre Company and Ensemble Theatre productions.

Today, we start Term 2 with reflections for Anzac Day and the sacrifices of those who have gone before us. Looking at the legacy these men and women have left provide a constant inspiration and to be thankful for all we have as well as looking forward to the future they helped to forge for us.

While there were many days spent in the pool for swimming carnivals in Term 1, the focus now turns to the track, with both Interhouse and Interschool Cross-Country Carnivals seeing our runners putting their best foot forward.

An information evening on ‘Navigating the Teenage Years’ has proved popular, selling out not long after tickets were released, as we all – students, parents and staff – work our way through some of life’s challenges, questions, changes and decisions.

Students will also be able to uncover the best pathway for them at the 2019 Career’s Expo, with representatives from universities, TAFEs, industry and other post school options gathering in the one place to chat about choices with students and parents. Keep an eye out for more information.

Our musicians will showcase their talent in a series of music concerts and the Arts & Academic Festival will bring out the creative side for all.

Many of our students go on camps this term, forging friendships, learning life skills and making memories in the process. Others will depart on a range of tours including the International Music Tour, Indonesian, Bethany Home, Canberra and Kimberley Tours.

This week, the School will also be announcing a special ‘Community Camp Out’ event at our Nanga property in Dwellingup for Term 3 to celebrate our 35 years. Families can enjoy an afternoon of activities and a night under the stars. There are limited tickets for what is sure to be a wonderful free community event so make sure you reserve a spot soon.

We continue our 35-year reflections with regular profiles of old staff, alumni and material from the archives – what a treat it has been to see where we began, where we are and where we hope to be.

So, here’s to another great term at St Stephen’s School. I look forward to sharing it with all of you.

Take care,

Mrs Donella Beare

Principal