Br Steve Hogan fsc
Sir Br Pat Lynch (Board Director) tells us human flourishing has to be the central focus of education. “Our schools need to deliberately build enough confidence in their students so each possesses these character dimensions: audacious thinkers, imaginative dreamers, critical questioners, innovative inventors, enthusiastic experimenters, committed collaborators, faith filled leaders, strong willed individuals in the face of adversity with resilient personalities” (Sir Br. Pat Lynch fsc OBE).
I believe the true test of a successful education is the subsequent life of a student; the kind of person they become; the extent to which they are fulfilling their potential, using their gifts and talents to the best of their ability, for the betterment of others.
Our theme for 2022 is 'include' and continues the consistent narrative over the past several years about aspiring to greatness in terms of being and doing our best in the context of our five key principles: Faith; Respect, Inclusivity, Excellence and Advocacy for Justice.
I have chosen the verb include because it is an action, meaning, to make part of a whole. Therefore, at Oakhill College in 2022 we will take every opportunity to promote, inform, form and guide our young men and women to ‘include’ others in their actions and thoughts; include others positively in every word deed and action; include a global perspective; include an awareness for the environment and our carbon footprint; include so that we are respectful, tolerant and understanding of each other. To include is to make whole, therefore not to include is something less than what ought to be – less in ourselves; less in terms of a wholesome, accepting, safe, respectful school environment.
Today we cannot assume our younger folk know what it is ‘to include’, what it looks like, nor the thinking and attitude that creates it, therefore it will be a principle we will collectively promote and develop in 2022.
This year our schoolwide focus for teaching and learning will again be reading, writing and critical thinking. In 2021 our Allwell results showed improvement on 2018, 2019 and 2020. However, the rate of improvement in 2021 slowed across all domains and more so for spelling, grammar and punctuation. Writing improvement was significant across all Years, 7-10. Therefore, to continue improving writing it is essential we develop new and extended strategies to develop spelling, grammar (and critical thinking), essential for further writing gains.
This year the College has revised further the Year 7 Transition Programme where the Dean of Year 7, Mr Jones has mapped transitioning into Year 7 at Oakhill College for the whole year. The 2022 Year 7 cohort of 350 students come from over 76 primary schools with different teaching and learning styles and expectations. The Transition and Pastoral Programme will induct all new students, both boys and girls, Years 7-11, into what is expected of a secondary student at Oakhill College with special care for those who do not know any other student on arrival. Transition includes every aspect of adjusting to life at the College from classroom protocols and getting around the campus to accessing and joining sport, drama, music groups, clubs and societies etc.
John F Kennedy (1917-1963), President of the USA, said “every accomplishment starts with the decision to try”. He went on to say, it will not be easy, it will be hard. Confucius (551-479BC) said “it does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop”. Having perseverance and GRIT – having the courage, resolve and strength of character to keep on doing the hard work after you are tired of doing the hard work you have already done. This defines the Oakhill spirit.
Oakhill College graduates with feet firmly grounded, aiming for the stars, know that life’s journey will not always be clearly defined, straight or predictable. Know that they have strength of spirit that enables them to rise above the fleeting things to engage life consciously – they never give in. An Oakhill College graduate always strives for what matters, looks out for the other, knowing and experiencing true mateship, the founding virtue of our Nation; is always up for the challenge, keeps the faith, is good and kind, and knows that they contribute to God’s Kingdom. (The Oakhill Graduate)
Finally, I would like to congratulate the Class of 2021 and in particular Noah Hoyle, our College Dux for 2021, with an ATAR of 98.6. Further details of our extraordinary HSC results which we hope to celebrate at the High Achievers Assembly on Friday 4th February, can be found under ‘HSC Results’ in this first Newsletter for 2022 and on our website.
Because a thing is difficult for you, do not therefore suppose it to be beyond mortal power. On the contrary, if anything is possible and proper for man to do, assume that it must fall within your own capacity. (Marcus Aurelius)