Over the past fortnight, our community has been treated to some truly terrific examples of school spirit in action. Across a range of events, students and staff alike demonstrated what it means to belong, to connect and to support one another across year levels and beyond the school gates.

A standout highlight was the inaugural Penquite Community House Event, an ambitious and impressive undertaking that successfully combined six separate events into one large‑scale community celebration. Throughout the afternoon and evening, vertical interactions were on full display as students from different year levels came together with enthusiasm, pride and genuine care for one another. Seeing older students encouraging and guiding younger peers, while families and wider community members joined in the festivities, reinforced the strength of our House culture and the power of shared experiences.

This strong sense of unity carried into the Penquite Inter-House Athletics, where participation, encouragement and positive energy were valued just as highly as results. As a Triple Jump official on the day, it was wonderful to see firsthand how students proudly represented their Houses, cheered on their classmates, and demonstrated respect and resilience, creating an atmosphere that celebrated effort and inclusion.

Our Together@Elphin Assemblies further reinforced these themes, providing meaningful opportunities for students to gather, share, celebrate achievements and strengthen relationships across year levels.

Feeling connected to peers, to students beyond your own year group and to the wider community is fundamental to wellbeing and engagement. This past week was a powerful reminder that school spirit is not just about events, it is about relationships, belonging and the collective pride we take in being part of something bigger.

Congratulations to our students for making such an impressive start to the 2026 school year.

Ross Patterson
Principal