Principal’s Message | Dr Michael Carroll

Dear members of the Terrace Family,

As we approach the end of Week 4, many of the special events that occur at the start of the year have occurred, and we can now focus on the daily grind of school.  It is important that all students have now established their homework and study routines and are regularly working on their assignments.  Weeks 5, 6, 7 and 8 are weeks where hard work will produce dividends at the end of the term.

Last week, at the Years 8 and 9 Information Evening, I announced that the development of 184 St Pauls Terrace (the property purchased by the College in 2020) will incorporate a new Waterford Building.  I also indicated that when this building is operating, estimated at 2023, it will be for Year 9 students rather than the current Waterford model, accommodating our Year 10 students.  The main reason for this decision is that the introduction of ATAR has highlighted the importance of aligning Year 10 more closely to the Senior Schooling program of Years 11 and 12. 

At the Information Night, I also mentioned that we are likely to move Year 10 back to the Main Campus in 2022 (prior to the completion of the new Waterford in 2023), as we are committed to linking Years 10, 11 and 12, from an ATAR perspective, as quickly as possible.  No plan for the transition has been developed at this stage; however, a Waterford Committee will be established to examine the many options and practicalities involved; including staffing, timetabling implications, Immersion options, financial implications and importantly, student needs, so we can establish recommendations for the development.  To be clear, I hope that both Year 9 and Year 10 students will experience Waterford in 2022, to maximise educational and pastoral outcomes for both year levels.  I am confident that we can provide an appropriate solution. As information becomes available over the coming weeks and months, I will continue to provide updates to the Terrace Family.

Finally this week, my thanks for your support regarding the continuing COVID restrictions around sport and cultural events, special assemblies and information evenings.  As in 2020, we will continue to examine ways of ensuring that regular events occur and that staff, students and parents can continue to experience the many engaging opportunities that exist at Terrace.

Have a great week.

God Bless.

 

Dr Michel Carroll