Principal's Message Week 4 Term Two

Getting involved

At the risk of repeating myself, I have been so impressed by the sense of community that exists here at ATC. It is palpable. I am heartened by the readiness of parents to gift their time and energy to building our culture and sense of who we are, in myriad ways. There are indeed too many groups to individually call out for their contributions, but I am hopeful you are aware of the generosity of parents who provide service through a second-hand uniform shop, through the music support group and the like.

We have over 70 families who have put their name on a roster for the Care and Concern group – providing meals (anonymously) for families who are experiencing difficulty in their lives. This is a tangible sign of faith to others, and I know is most appreciated by those in receipt of a healthy meal.

Every month our Parents and Friends group meets on a Tuesday evening. Although a small band of loyal attendees, they do a power of work that directly benefits the boys at the College. This year alone, they have donated funds to the Duke of Edinburgh program, an automated cricket bowling machine, the Year 7 Time and Space evening, and the installation of new bubblers on Jack Bowers oval. Importantly, they are contributing a significant amount to the upgrades to the NJ Hall that will be completed this year.

I pay tribute to all mums and dads and community members who give of their time and talent to build our community, and importantly, to benefit the experience of our boys. I am indebted to our families for their service to the college.

If you are not currently involved in the life of the school in some way, may I encourage you to take that step to do so. This is not an entirely selfless thing to do! It may just be the commencement of a new friendship, or family connection that you make through coming together, that you didn’t know you were missing out on! It also builds camaraderie, commitment to something bigger than us, and a sense of common purpose. Your sons are also the beneficiaries.

I made a brief visit to the gardening club a couple of Sundays ago. There was a hive of activity with community members coming together to do something they, and their sons, love. Despite the inclement weather, spirits were high and the sense of joy in each sharing the company of others was very evident.

If you haven’t signed up to help with Dash for Crash, here is yet another opportunity to get involved. Alternatively, come and do the 10km run with me. I’ll be there.

I appreciate that families lead busy lives and that many of us are time poor. There are other ways to give if that is you. Perhaps you might make a donation to the Building Fund, or to the Foundation in that case.

Thank you to all boys, mums, dads, grandparents and community members who together help us build the culture we all want to see thriving at our school, where faith, learning, and leadership are hallmarks.

Dr Craig Wattam

College Principal