I am a fan of the St George Illawarra Dragons and have been since Highschool. The Dragons give me greater joy at times, and at other times, cause me great frustration. Consistency has been something that many commentators have questioned about this club and I have a feeling that 2020 is a year where consistency has been lacking also.
As a Headmaster, there is little you can prepare for in leading a school through a once in a lifetime pandemic. You read everything available, you speak with other Head's and gain advice and follow the directives and suggestions of health and education officials. Being an 'Independent' school also means the buck stops with me. I am acutely aware of my responsibility as Headmaster of St. Peter's, to make decisions that are in the best interest of the wellbeing of our school community. The Schools' Council have been very supportive as we have navigated the lack of consistency and the changing goalposts.
This week, further correspondence has been issued to schools which included a list of 'cease immediately' areas. This included the change to Choirs and our Vocal Ensemble being permitted to rehearse, as well as Woodwind instruments being banned from rehearsals. Whilst we are planning on having some online versions of rehearsals in these areas, it is not the same as being able to rehearse in the group you are part of.
The Heads of all schools involved in IPSSO had already taken a cautious approach in delaying the reintroduction of Inter School Sport. This will now remain until the end of Term 3, at the earliest.
Camps, excursions and social events are unable to occur for Term 3. Whilst the majority of our camps have already been delayed until Term 4, we are yet to have a clear understanding of what restrictions may still be in place for Term 4. I am incredibly conscious of just how much our Year 6 students have already missed out on. The School will continue to plan for contingency options for our Year 6 Valedictory Dinner and Graduation Ceremony and indeed our annual Presentation Evening.
We are continually reminded that our world is changing and therefore the changing goalposts of what schools look like, should not surprise us. I continue to be incredibly thankful to our teachers and support staff, many who are doing in excess of three duties per day to ensure the safety of our community. I thank our amazing parents for your continued flexibility, understanding and support.
Our community is stronger due to the willingness of everyone to work together. Please continue to question, clarify and suggest options for consideration. St. Peter's is a more consistent team than the Dragons and one I'm proud to lead and support.
