HONOURING OUR PAST, INSPIRING OUR FUTURE

Honouring Our Past, Inspiring Our Future
Reflecting on a Term of Celebration, Creativity, Service and Community

As we reach the end of Term 3, we have much to celebrate and be grateful for as a College community.

This term has been characterised by curiosity, creativity, service, achievement, global connections and a profound sense of belonging. Across every stage of the College, students have embraced opportunities to learn, grow and contribute, demonstrating the values that make our community such a special place.

A highlight of the term was undoubtedly our 140th anniversary celebrations, which brought together past and present members of the Scotch Oakburn community. The 140-year exhibition, Gala Night and unveiling at Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Launceston provided a wonderful opportunity to honour our rich history while celebrating the people, stories and traditions that continue to shape our future.

The spirit of House competition was alive and well throughout the term, with students enthusiastically participating in the Penquite Inter-House Debating Competition and Inter-House Singing Competition. These occasions showcased not only talent and teamwork, but also the confidence, camaraderie and sense of pride that develop when students are encouraged to challenge themselves and support one another.

Our Performing Arts programs reached remarkable heights this term. The Senior School production of Hadestown: Teen Edition was simply outstanding. Students, staff and volunteers combined to create a production of exceptional quality that captivated audiences and highlighted the extraordinary talent within our College. We also congratulate our Year 5 students, whose journey through Alice in Wonderland Jnr began with rehearsals in Term 2 and culminated in three wonderful performances this week. Their commitment, teamwork, creativity and courage brought the story to life, creating lasting memories for performers and audiences alike.

National Science Week inspired students across the College to explore, investigate and innovate. From hands-on learning experiences in the early years through to the ingenuity and problem-solving demonstrated in our Year 10 STEAM Program, students embraced opportunities to discover how science and technology shape the world around us.

One of the defining features of the term has been the strength of our global outlook through the Round Square program. Guided by the IDEALS of Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership and Service, students have engaged with the world beyond our campus in meaningful and transformative ways. Throughout the term, students in Years 8 and 10 have undertaken exchange experiences across the globe, embracing new cultures, languages and perspectives while representing the College with distinction. At the same time, we have been privileged to welcome exchange students from around the world into our community, enriching our classrooms and strengthening international friendships and understanding.

Our commitment to global citizenship has also been evident through the participation of students and staff in significant Round Square opportunities. We acknowledge those attending the Round Square International Conference (RSIC) 2026 in Sydney, celebrating the 60th Anniversary of Round Square, where students in Years 10, 11 and 12 have joined peers from around the world to explore ideas, build connections and develop leadership capabilities. We also recognise the students and staff currently participating in the biannual South Africa IDEALS Service Adventure, an experience that combines service, cultural immersion, challenge and personal growth. These opportunities remind us that some of life’s most valuable lessons are learned through engaging with different communities, cultures and perspectives.

Community and belonging were further strengthened through special events such as the Fathers’ Day Breakfast, which brought families together in celebration of the important relationships that support our young people, and the Blessing of the Animals Service, a cherished tradition that reminds us of our responsibility to care for all living things and the world we share.

In sport, students continued to challenge themselves and represent the College with pride. We congratulate our competitors on their success at the SATIS Swimming Carnival and acknowledge the enthusiasm and sportsmanship displayed at the Elphin Campus Years 2-5 Athletics Carnival. For many of our Year 2 students, this was their first athletics carnival, making the day an especially exciting milestone.

One of the most inspiring stories of Term 3 has been the generosity shown through the Elphin Campus City Mission Winter Appeal. Together, our community donated more than 60 bags and boxes of food, clothing and toiletries to support those in need throughout winter. This initiative was inspired by the compassion shown by Arthur Gordon (Year 1), who wanted to make a difference for people experiencing homelessness during the colder months. What began as one student’s desire to help others has grown into a powerful expression of community spirit. We thank our Year 5 Round Square Captains, Student Representative Council members and all families who contributed to this year’s appeal. Through this initiative, and countless other acts of service throughout the term, our students have demonstrated that kindness, empathy and leadership can have a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

While these examples highlight many of the significant events of the term, they tell a larger story. They reflect a community that values learning, celebrates achievement, embraces creativity, serves others and encourages young people to engage confidently with both their local and global communities.

None of these opportunities would be possible without the dedication of our staff. Whether teaching in classrooms, coaching on sporting fields, directing productions, leading excursions, supporting wellbeing, facilitating exchanges, coordinating service projects or working behind the scenes, staff consistently invest their time, expertise and care to help every student flourish. We thank them for their remarkable commitment and passion.

We also extend our sincere gratitude to our families for their partnership, encouragement and support throughout the term. Your involvement enriches our community and helps create the conditions in which young people can thrive.

As we begin the holiday break, may everyone find time to rest, reconnect and enjoy the opportunities that come from stepping away from the routines of school life. We look forward to welcoming students and staff back for Term 4 refreshed, energised and ready for the final chapter of another memorable year.

End of Term Blessing

As we pause at the close of this term,
may we be grateful for the experiences we have shared,
the challenges we have overcome,
and the friendships and connections that have strengthened us.

May we celebrate our achievements,
learn from our experiences,
and recognise the many people whose support and encouragement have helped us along the way.

May this holiday break bring rest to those who are weary,
joy to those spending time with family and friends,
and renewal to all members of our community.

May those travelling do so safely.
May those seeking peace find moments of stillness and reflection.
May those facing difficulties find hope, strength and support.

As we look ahead to Term 4,
may we return with fresh energy, open minds and generous hearts,
ready to embrace new opportunities and continue caring for one another.

And may we move forward with gratitude for the past, confidence in the present and hope for the future.

May we continue to learn with curiosity, lead with courage, serve with compassion and contribute positively to the communities of which we are a part.

Jamie Breden
Head of Faith and Community