I am writing this week’s newsletter article from Ibaraki Christian Junior School in Japan, where I am accompanying twelve students on our annual exchange program. Our students were formally welcomed at a school assembly this morning and, during their visit, will stay with local host families, participate in classes alongside their Japanese peers, and enjoy a range of cultural experiences and excursions. This immersion in school, family and cultural life is what makes the exchange such a valuable and memorable experience.
Our partnership with Ibaraki has now spanned more than twenty years, providing many Newhaven students with the opportunity to experience Japanese culture firsthand, while generous Newhaven families have welcomed Ibaraki students into their homes. Seeing the generosity of our hosts, the friendships being formed and the benefits these experiences provide for our students reinforces just how valuable this partnership is. I hope this special relationship between our schools continues to flourish for many years to come.
As Term 3 draws to a close, I would like to congratulate all our students on another successful term of learning, growth and involvement in College life. Regardless of year level or sub-school, our students have embraced an extraordinary range of opportunities and activities. It gives me great pleasure to see the enthusiasm, energy and commitment they bring to school each day.
The end of Term 3 has been particularly busy for our Performing Arts Department, with a wonderful series of showcase events. Congratulations to everyone involved in the Spring Concert, which highlighted the breadth and diversity of musical talent across the College. Our second-year VET students demonstrated their impressive range of contemporary music skills, while our VCE Theatre Studies students presented their end-of-year monologues to a live audience.
A particular highlight was our extraordinary biennial Junior School Musical, The World is Yours, written, composed and directed by our very own Dave and Nina Prideaux. Every Junior School student plays a part in this production and, for many, it is their first experience on stage. They could not hope for a better introduction to performance than being part of such a joyful and inclusive production. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who worked so hard to create these memorable experiences for our students.
Board Retreat
On the weekend of 29 and 30 August our College Board held its annual two-day strategic retreat. The retreat provides valuable time for reflection, future planning and consideration of the College’s direction.
Newhaven is very fortunate to benefit from the considerable skills, experience and commitment of our volunteer Board Directors. The weekend provided an important opportunity for thoughtful discussion and productive planning as we continue to consider Newhaven’s future and how we can best serve our students, families and wider community.
As we conclude another busy and rewarding term, I wish all our students, staff and families a happy and safe term break. I hope everyone enjoys the opportunity to rest, recharge and spend time with family and friends, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 4.
In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Your Strength
Tony Corr
Principal