From the Principal

Last week, while sipping my morning coffee and looking out my office window at Athelstone, I watched happy, bright students streaming into the College. A few moments later, I glanced toward the oval and noticed a Year 12 student walking alone toward the building. He stepped on a piece of rubbish. I wondered what he would do next, considering there was no one else around! To my delight, he stopped, turned around, picked up the rubbish, popped it in the bin, and continued on his way.

Witnessing this moment made me incredibly happy. It's a brilliant glimpse into someone's world, seeing what they choose to do when they think no one is watching. I feel so proud of our Ignatian students and the decisions they make in such moments.

After that uplifting experience to start the day, I almost went straight back to work. Then I remembered a colleague's recent comment: “Culture is about catching people in the act of doing something good.” In the midst of the busy morning, I knew what I had to prioritise. I found the student from the oval, and we shared a lovely conversation about how much the little things matter. Both of us felt good afterwards, and it was a reminder of what is truly important.

Much like the student picking up the rubbish on his way to school, seeing our students live AMDG in these moments brings our College Motto to life. AMDG—Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam, “for the greater glory of God”— is our College Motto and a way of life that influences our thoughts and actions. It recognises the divine presence in all things and places service and servant leadership at our core. It embodies a steadfast commitment to a faith that does justice, offering one's heart, hands, and whole self. It calls us to see the good and potential in every situation, uniting us with strength and diversity.

Simply, AMDG is about doing your very best.
Doing your best to be someone for others.
Doing your best for the greater glory of God.

Our staff have been enjoying the opportunity to unpack elements of the Strategic Plan together, ensuring it permeates the daily lives of our students. We are excited to share our next Strategic Plan with our community before the end of this term. It celebrates our rich history and our strong future ahead.

Lauren Brooks
Principal