From the Rector

Jesuit education is dedicated to developing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—through a holistic approach that integrates intellect, imagination, emotions, and conscience. This model encourages exploring connections between data, insights, challenges, and outcomes, aiming to foster critical thinking, moral insight, and effective communication. Teaching social justice, responsibility, participation, and action is essential to this educational endeavour. In this sense, education goes beyond career preparation; its purpose is to develop people of compassion, conscience, competence, and commitment, embodying the ‘people for others’ ideal to shape a better world.

Jesuit schools aim to provide both intellectual and character formation, inspiring students to become agents of change guided by solidarity with marginalized communities. We hope our graduates will understand and address injustices and social and economic inequality. They should be equipped to tackle contemporary social issues such as environmental degradation, economic inequality, diversity, and inclusion. We want them to learn how to advocate for improved education, justice, health care, employment, and housing access for all. This involves formation in truth-telling, reconciliation, and healing through dialogue.

From their earliest missions in schools and hospitals, and through preaching and sacraments, Jesuits have shaped their messages to the capacities of their audiences, considering peoples’ needs, socio-historical contexts, and spiritual outcomes. This approach has sought to communicate meaningfully for the good of others. The Jesuit concept of ‘eloquentia perfecta’ is based on the classical ideal of the virtuous person writing and speaking well for the public good. There is a fundamental link between rational thinking, ethical reflection, and persuasive discourse. To achieve ‘sauviter’, or persuasion, the speaker must be honourable.

True eloquence requires erudite learning and moral discernment. Cicero stated, “The influence and wisdom of the perfect orator depend not only on his own dignity but also on the safety of others and the welfare of society.” The ‘Ratio Studiorum’ of 1599 provided the framework for Jesuit education, advocating a pedagogy that combined analytical reasoning, moral discernment, and social responsibility. The 16th-century Spanish Jesuit Francisco Suarez described eloquence as “wisdom speaking bountifully”, requiring prudent understanding, integrity, discretion, and heroic virtue. The Belgian Jesuit Charles Coppens in the 19th century emphasized that the primary responsibility of education is “to make people virtuous; any system of training which does not put virtue in the first place is a false system.”

Jesuit colleges throughout history have sought to develop the ethical and intellectual faculties of their students to make good Christians, good citizens, and good intellectuals. This commitment to intellect, character, and eloquence continues to define Jesuit education today, shaping individuals who are prepared to contribute profoundly to society.

Fr Peter Hosking SJ
Rector

OREMUS (Let us pray)

We remember all in our College community. May our prayers comfort those suffering at this time. May God’s blessing be a source of support in their sorrow and loss, and bring courage, patience, and hope.

For those who have died:

- Maxwell Davies

“Ask and you shall receive … knock and the door will be opened unto you.” (Matt 7:7)

If you would like someone to be remembered by the College community in prayer (even anonymously), please provide details to the Rector, class or Mentor Teacher, or House Leader.

Our Commitment to Environmental Stewardship

From May 19th to 26th, our school joined the global celebration of Laudato Si’ Week, marking the anniversary of Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’ - Care for Our Common Home. This week serves as a reminder of our interconnectedness with the environment and our responsibility to care for creation.

At the Senior School, our focus during chapel services has been on the theme 'Seeds of Hope'. Each mentor class received a small terracotta pot with seeds, decorated during last year’s Year 7 day of reflection and the scripture Matthew 13:1-9, the Parable of the Sower, which was used in the chapel service to align with this years theme.

In addition to the chapel services, the Care For Country group organised engaging lunchtime activities. On Tuesday, students participated in a plant scavenger hunt using the PictureThis app, exploring the diverse flora on campus. Wednesday featured discussions on practical ways to reduce our environmental impact at home, supported by a new grant from the Parents and Friends (P&F) for sustainability projects, encouraging students to bring their ideas to life. On Thursday, students enjoyed an Emu walk, combining a fun outdoor activity with a campus cleanup.

The Junior School also embraced Laudato Si’ Week with a focus on waste reduction. Thursday saw classes conducting waste audits to measure the types and amounts of waste generated. This data will support our Nude Food Initiative, launching in Week 5, where students are encouraged to bring waste-free lunches every Tuesday until the end of term. The initiative aims to reduce food and packaging waste, educate our community on the benefits of waste-free lunches, and inspire lasting change. The class with the lowest average waste will receive a reward, fostering a spirit of friendly competition and environmental awareness.

Through these activities, we are educating our students about the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainability, fostering a community dedicated to caring for our common home.

Nicholas Hauschild & Caroline O’Halloran
Sustainability Coordinators