Dean of Students | Mr Damien Cuddihy
Last Thursday was a very special day for the Terrace Family. The culmination of the Terrace journey is the Senior Valedictory. It was a privilege to enjoy the final gathering of the Seniors in College Hall in the morning, as the Seniors shared some words before their school farewell. To have so many people gathered at Tennyson was a fitting end for our families who have always supported their sons on the journey. Many thanks to the members of the TLG who assisted in preparing for the day and making it such a memorable conclusion.
And so, we come to the end of another academic year. We started 2020, the 145th year of the College, with the assumption that it would roll through its usual markers. It didn’t quite end up that way and the heavy downpour on the first day just as we formed the tunnel for the new students was a warning for what was to come. I am proud of the way our 250 new students embraced the College throughout the year, showing a great deal of resilience and flexibility in their learning. As an institution based around developing strong, positive relationships, all members of the community have shared the responsibility of growing the atmosphere of care. As with any family, it would be unreasonable to expect that a school year would be without some clashes and low points. Fortunately, the positive times have far outnumbered the negatives, and I would hope that most of our students can reflect on a year in which they have embraced the ethos of the College, while making the most of every opportunity. I am a firm believer in the adage that it takes a village to raise a child. The House system always has been a cornerstone of the pastoral care of students, and it relies heavily on the contribution of a range of influential adults. We are deeply indebted to the pastoral team: House Deans, Dean of Waterford Place, Program Leaders, Mentors, Counsellors, Identity and Maroon Staff whose efforts combine to form the young men we like to refer to as Terrace Gentlemen. It is indeed a team effort and we are fortunate to have such a quality group of people charged with the care of our students.
Finally, I would like to wish all our students and their families all the very best for a relaxing time over the Christmas break. I hope everyone in our community can take some time to recharge and refresh after a particularly hectic year. I look forward to a successful year in 2021.