Welcome back to Semester 2, to what we know is always the busiest of terms when it comes to the school year! However, before we look forward, I think it is pertinent to look back as we jump over the halfway mark of 2025.

Over the break, our Senior Campus boys would have received their Semester 1 reports. We will recognise their exceptional achievement, growth and application next week at the Academic Assembly. In reviewing the achievements, data would suggest our boys are applying themselves and reaping dividends. A particular highlight is the students who have demonstrated growth or 'turned the corner'. Hence, at next week’s assembly, we will recognise a student from each year level for the Liberating Education award. In short, this recognition identifies students who have demonstrated a marked shift in attitude, application and grades. Although we can only recognise one student per Year Level, it is a testament to many boys nominated by teachers and Heads of House. A sign of maturing as they enter Semester 2 and, by extension, prepare for 2026.

Looking forward, we are now in the phase of the year where many of the processes and mechanics of getting ready for 2026 begin. Last night, hundreds of Senior students with their parents attended the CBC Career and Subject Selection Evening. I thank all the staff involved, particularly the leadership of Tia Milhous (Career and VET Counsellor), who oversaw the event. Subsequently, all students will commence making their subject selections for next year over the next few weeks. Crucially, our senior students must accept that their eligibility to move into desired subjects and pathways next year is still largely bound to their performance and application this year. The higher one goes in school, the more rigorous and demanding the courses become. We are committed to all the boys’ success, but data informs these pathways, eligibility criteria and approaches. Vague promises to 'try harder next year' do not. To that end, I remind our students of the After School Study Groups – Years 7 to 12 in the Library (Mon to Thurs, 3:10pm to 5:00pm) and Senior Study Group – Years 10 to 12 in the Wakefield Building (Tuesday and Wednesday nights, 5:00pm to 8:00pm).

In closing, I would like to thank the boys for their stellar start to Semester 2, and it is amazing how sharp they look without the hoodies. I only got to confiscate one thus far! Over the next two weeks, just some event reminders:

Week 2:

• Tuesday 28 July: Year 10 Vaccinations – Dose 2
• Wednesday 29 July: Academic Assembly – This is a formal event and requires students in full uniform
• Friday 1 August: CBC Year 8 and 9 Social

Week 3:

• Monday 4 August: 2026 Year 12 (current Year 11) Subject Selections
• Tuesday 5 August: 2026 Year 11 (current Year 10) Subject Selections
• Friday 8 August: Hutt Street Walk a Mile

Dr Lee Del Col
Deputy Principal – Head of Senior Campus