QUOTE: “It is hard to forget, to apologise, to be unselfish, to avoid mistakes, to keep out of a rut, to begin all over again, to make the best of all things, to keep your temper at all times, to think first and act afterwards, to maintain a high standard, to keep on keeping on, to shoulder the blame, to be charitable, to admit error, to take advice, to forgive – but you’ll win more games”. Jack Gibson.

Exam Fever has certainly gripped our boys over the past week with all types of symptoms being shown. Varying levels of stress as well as healthy concerns about their exams have been demonstrated by most. Panic trickled amongst a few, worried about running out of time, while a few others declaring absolute boredom in struggling to manage their extensive Study blocks. It is important for them to learn how to manage and be responsible for their time.

This exam block is really the first time our boys have experienced long periods between exams and they really are learning how to manage their time. This is a wonderful learning experience for them, just as the new levels of concerns, you would be hearing and seeing in your son, are all very normal, healthy and really, quite good, as he begins to mature into being an HSC student. Please continue to reassure him when you receive his phone calls of defeat and despair over the year. It is all very normal for our boys. It is just that they are experiencing many of these feelings for the first time.

At the Headmaster’s Assembly yesterday SJC Old Boy Joe Fazio was honoured when his wife, Di, who is also on the teaching staff here, presented the 1st V111 with their skins for tomorrow’s Head of the River. This is an important day in the College calendar as it is one of only two days when all the GPS Schools come together as one in competition. Our boys’ presence and the aura they leave others through their manners, spirit, cheering and togetherness is another important lesson in their development. The First VIII of 2011 for Saturday’s Head of the River were presented with their skins. Special congratulations to Sam Clarke, Alec Rainnie, Connor O’Gorman and Ethan Shaw on making the First VIII and to Peter Ritter, Tom Murphy, James Dressler-Smith, Hamish Elliot, James Quinn and Vincent Salinos in the Second VIII, along with all of our representatives, who will proudly represent the College at the Head of the River tomorrow.
A reminder that all of our boys will head off at 7.45am to Head of the River by bus with their Year 7 Buddies travelling with them. All boys must also return on the bus back to the College with the Rowing Rally commencing at 4.30pm due to finish around 5.30pm. Weekly Boarders, Day boys and Full Boarders with overnights will mark off with me at this time.

The Winter sports trials kicked off literally this week with plenty of enthusiasm and competition between the troops. I have been impressed with the boys’ efforts, although it was expected, and there will be more to come next week. I have told them to be patient, and not get too carried away if they have a great game or if things do not come their way, not to worry too much, it is a long season.
I would like to thank our Parent Reps for their time and energies in organizing opportunities for us to come together for a laugh and swap some possible bribery stories. Carolyn, Marie, Nicole and Graeme have asked if you would take time out to consider the following requests for the upcoming Rugby season:
“A message from year 11 parent reps….. Year 11 parents have been allocated 2 away games for canteen duty this year as on a few occasions a number of teams will be playing over at the park in the morning, due to a shortage of ovals available at the away school. For the first game on 7th May against Scots we would like some volunteers to help us set up and serve in the main park canteen. The canteen will only be open between 8am and 1pm. We need 2 people from 8am-9am, 3 people from 9am-11am and 3 people from 11am-1pm. If you are available, could you please contact Carolyn Kay carolynkay@cci.net.au with your preferred timeslot”.

Many thanks for your support
Carolyn, Marie, Nicole & Graeme

I have also attached a copy of the Social Contacts form which Nicole has asked if you could complete and return if you would like to be on this Year’s contact list.

Well, this time next week your boys will be back home with you or well on their way. They have a big day in front of them tomorrow, whether they are competing or looking after their Yr 7 Buddy and supporting on the banks. Next Monday they will face exams in Ancient History, Biology and English as well as more very competitive winter sport trials. I have encouraged them to be sensible with their spare time this weekend and they need to prioritise, rest, time with their families (if possible) and preparation for next week’s exams. I encourage you all to do the same.

Take care and enjoy the weekend with your families.

Regards
Jeremy