Congratulations to all the staff and students on what has been one of the smoothest starts to an academic year in my time. On Tuesday, we had just under 130 Year 7s commence their first day of high school, and I must commend the efforts of our Assistant Director of Students – Middle School and Transition, Mr Riley Atkinson, and the Heads of House, who ensured the orientation and transition had been structured, welcoming and seamless. On the other side of the schooling spectrum, our Year 12 cohort had their oxymoronically titled 'final first day' of school. As is tradition, our College Captain, Orville, read the Year 12 pledge and rang the old school bell. The next time he rings this bell will be on their final day of schooling – less than 32 academic weeks away!

On Wednesday, we welcomed back all our Year 8s to 11s, where the day began with a Welcome Assembly before students commenced lessons. Orville gave his first speech for the year, which was motivational and spoke of the vision and intent of his Prefect Team for the year ahead. Orville spoke fluently and passionately, leaving me grateful that I never have to follow him when delivering speeches in the future.

College Captain, Orville Jones' Welcome Speech to Students

In a different form of inspiration, we also welcomed back Javale (Year 8), who has shown that the triumvirate of prayers, his determination, and familial love are truly capable of healing. It was an emotional and uplifting moment seeing him walk through the gates in his PE uniform with his parents and little sister, one that we are all so proud of and grateful for. Thank you to all the students and staff involved in aiding his return to the rhythm of schooling life.

Javale returning to CBC and spending time with his friends

In addition to the new Year 7s, we have over 30 new students from Years 8 to 12 beginning their time at the Senior Campus. Their attraction to CBC is for a myriad of reasons. Some have moved from interstate, while many have joined us seeking a community that is welcoming, supportive and reputable for achieving excellent academic outcomes (you will hear more about this in the following newsletter as we reflect on the SACE achievements of our 2024 Year 12 cohort – they are exceptional and some of the best in the state!). Consequently, as we remain committed to smaller class sizes and capping cohorts, the senior campus is nearing capacity and only has some positions remaining at certain year levels. It is a sure sign that we are on the right track.

Although Study Groups do not commence officially until next week, the library, with a skeleton tutoring staff, was open this week. Seeing students from all year levels begin using this support from day one indicates our boys’ culture towards learning and working together. Great work, gentlemen!

Looking ahead, we have a few significant events coming up over the next couple of weeks. Please note:

Week 2

• Monday 3 February – Meet the Parent Evening, after hours
• Friday 7 February – 2024 Dux Assembly – students are to wear their summer uniform (no PE)

Week 3

• Tuesday 11 February – Missioning Mass – students are to wear their summer uniform (no PE)
• Wednesday 12 to Friday 14 February – Music Camp for selected students

As always, please do not hesitate to contact any of our leadership team if we can assist.

Dr Lee Del Col
Deputy Principal – Head of Senior Campus