Forward December 2019 | Page 17

FROM THE HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL More than results After what was an emotion filled week in the Senior School as we farewelled our 2019 Valedictorians, I am certainly reflective of the words made famous by William Shakespeare that “parting is such sweet sorrow”. We are sad to farewell our Year 12 students, after we have watched them grow, achieve and overcome challenges, but we are also both hopeful and optimistic about the next time we meet and hearing how their journeys have continued, how the characteristics and strengths they have developed during their time in the school have enabled them to continue to live out our School’s purpose in their contributions to creating a just, loving and peaceful society. educational cohort complete their schooling, marking the culmination of what was an exciting new step in the School’s history. To say this has been a success would be an understatement and it was certainly clear by observing our students on their final day, how much the school has had an impact on their lives. This outcome would not have been achieved had it not been for a number of brave and courageous young women taking a leap and choosing to be part of our community; nor would it have been a success without a group of young men being so welcoming, encouraging and caring of the newest members of our school and being outstanding custodians of what is so special about our school. 2019 has been especially significant given this is the first time the School has had a co- We were privileged to be joined for the evening by Old Guildfordian Raleigh Finlayson (Sc 89-95) as our guest speaker. Raleigh provided key messages relevant for our students embarking on the next stage of their journey. One of the most important messages was the need to commit to remaining humble as Old Guildfordians and always make an effort to acknowledge and thank all those people who do the small things that make our schools or organisations what they are. At our Valedictory Eve celebrations, I shared the following thoughts with our students: The purpose of a good school is to provide more than results – we do not exist just to fill university places or ensure there is a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the economy. We see success in schooling in developing young people who: • Stand for something that captures their passion, and are brave enough to challenge everything that does not • Understand how to listen to and appreciate that differences exist in the world and there is value in considering the point of view of others • When the time calls for it (and inevitably it always does) can make a sincere apology • Know what they stand for, and what they are willing to compromise for a greater good. Mr Brad Evans Head of Senior School 17