Dear Parents
Last Friday, 6 March, we marked Founder’s Day with a special assembly that provided our boys with a meaningful glimpse into the rich history and heritage of our school. Dr Paul Murray, a teacher at the College and our resident historian, addressed the boys and shared a fascinating presentation featuring photographs of the school buildings from many years ago and how they have evolved into the campus we know today.
Dr Murray also spoke about Bishop Robert Gray and his wife, whose influence played a significant role in the development of schooling and the church in the early years of our institution. His stories included anecdotes about some well-known Old Diocesans (ODs), reminding the boys that they are part of a long and proud tradition.
A particularly special moment was when Dr Murray presented the Prep with a book titled A Brush with Bishops – an Artistic View of an Educational Landmark. The paintings are by Richie Ryall, an OD who attended both the Prep and the College, while the text was written by Dr Murray himself. The book has been placed in the foyer of Stanmore House, and visitors are warmly invited to page through it when they are on campus. It is a wonderful celebration of our school’s heritage and a reminder of what a special place it is.
Founder’s Day would not be complete without the usual festivities, and the boys certainly embraced them with enthusiasm. The traditional tug-of-war, donut eating and inter-house relay gala were thoroughly enjoyed. One of the highlights of the morning was the spontaneous energy that erupted when Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” played over the PA system, with the boys enthusiastically singing and dancing along – a moment that captured the spirit and joy of the day perfectly.
We are also pleased to report that our new water polo pool is steadily moving toward completion. It will be an outstanding facility for the school once finished. Planning for the second Astro turf is also well underway, with construction scheduled to begin on 17 August, immediately after the winter sports season concludes. This exciting project will include a much-needed revamp of the Woodlands Pavilion as well as upgrades to several changing rooms and ablution facilities. If all proceeds according to plan, we are hopeful that the new facilities will be ready for the start of the second term in 2027.
This week has also marked the transition into the winter sports pre-season, and there is already a noticeable buzz around the school as we look forward to the start of the winter sporting programme. Rugby, hockey and other winter codes form an important part of school life, providing boys with opportunities to develop teamwork, resilience and school pride. We encourage parents to support their sons as they balance their sporting commitments with their academic responsibilities, ensuring they finish the term strongly.
Thank you to all parents for your cooperation and support during what proved to be an exceptionally challenging week of heat.
Finally, parents of rugby players are kindly asked to make every effort to attend a short meeting at the fields after Saturday morning’s rugby practice. The coaching staff would like to share some important information regarding the upcoming rugby season, and your attendance will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support of the school community. Together we ensure that our boys benefit from a vibrant environment that celebrates tradition, embraces opportunity and encourages them to grow in every aspect of school life.
Kind regards
CHRIS GROOM
ACTING HEADMASTER |
