Principal’s Message | Dr Michael Carroll

Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers in the Terrace Family.

Dear Members of the Terrace Family,

Term 2 continues to progress very quickly. An alarming statistic, but one we all need to act on, is that there are 18 school teaching days before the Term 2 exam block commences. Whilst your initial reaction may be one of alarm, it is important that all students focus and plan for the coming weeks. Importantly, assignment planning, study/revision and homework must be more focussed during this time. I remind parents that staff tutoring occurs each week and is an excellent way for students to reinforce what they are doing in class.

I had the opportunity to attend the Junior Musical ‘Shrek’, last Saturday night. It was outstanding. Congratulations to all involved in this production – the actors, sets, costumes, music and sound/lighting were all extraordinary. The talent that exists within the terrace Family continues to amaze me. Well done to all involved.

Last Saturday at Tennyson, a Terrace student walking home after football was approached by a person in a car offering him a lift. This is a significant issue and the police have been notified. The purpose of mentioning this is to ask parents to reinforce the ‘Stranger Danger’ message to their sons. I am aware that students wait at the front gates at Tennyson and walk home after training or games. Consequently, it is important that a clear message is delivered to the students. Please assist by having a conversation with your son.

This week has seen our Years 5, 7 and 9 students involved in the Naplan testing program. Whilst the results will not be available for some time, I wish to congratulate the students on the way they approached the testing program. Thank you to the staff involved in preparing the students. I am confident the results will reflect this strong application and preparation.

This Sunday we celebrate Mother’s Day. Importantly, this day provides us with an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to our mothers. The support, guidance, direction and love from our mothers is why we are who we are. Tomorrow, the Year 10 students host their Mother’s Day breakfast at Waterford. TTN will also have their Mother’s Day stall this week.

There are many poems and reflections focused on mothers, however, the poem below, ‘Thank God for Mother's Love’, is one of my favourites.

There is no love, like a mother's love,
no stronger bond on earth...
like the precious bond that comes from God,
to a mother, when she gives birth.
A mother's love is forever strong,
never changing for all time...
and when her children need her most,
a mother's love will shine.
God bless these special mothers,
God bless them everyone...
for all the tears and heartache, a
nd for the special work they've done.
When her days on earth are over,
a mother's love lives on...
through many generations,
with God's blessings on each one.
Be thankful for our mothers,
for they love with a higher love...
from the power God has given,
and the strength from up above.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers in the Terrace Family.

Finally this week, I remind students and parents about a couple of areas that need ongoing focus and attention.

College Uniform

The winter uniform, including blazer, must be worn each day. Whilst I have seen some improvement in the wearing of the College uniform, there remains room for further improvement. Students also need to wear theirs socks pulled up and ensure that Akubra hats are worn to and from school

Road Safety

The roads around the College and those leading to the City and the Valley are busy. Students must obey the road rules and cross at pedestrian crossings or lights. Support from parents in reinforcing these practices is essential. Our boys need to be careful and safe.

Pick up / Drop off

Thank you to all the parents who cooperate when driving around the College. Pease continue to show care and attention, particularly at afternoon pickup. Please avoid double parking, stopping on the road to collect your son and parking across driveways. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Have a great week and Happy Mother’s Day to all our mums.

God Bless.


Dr Michael Carroll

College Principal