Mr Scott Thomson (Week 3)
Last Saturday, the College hosted The Southport School, which also coincided with our annual Old Boys’ Day and Boarders’ Bash. For those who were present, all that is great about Nudgee College Spirit was on display.
O come to the altar
The Father's arms are open wide
Forgiveness was bought with
The precious blood of Jesus Christ
During this year's Queensland Catholic Education Week, it was wonderful that before the commencement of the First XV match on Ross Oval, the students present united in singing the above hymn that raised the hairs on the back of every neck present. On Tuesday, I conveyed to our College Assembly that witnessing this rendition of such a powerful hymn was my proudest moment as a Catholic educator. The performance was led by our Year 12 students, so I cannot take responsibility for what people saw. But, by association as College Principal, I was incredibly proud of all the students present. If you have not viewed the clip, please do so here.
We often hear about the beauty and attraction of ‘Nudgee Spirit’ and on Saturday, it was so humbling and wonderful to engage with such a vast number of people who hold this school so close to their hearts. Be they Nudgee College Old Boys, previous parents, current parents and loved ones, or current students, all that I spoke with thoroughly enjoyed the day. The capacity grandstand was led expertly by our College Captain, Oscar Roati, and his team, who timed their cheers impeccably to ensure that the ‘10000 Brothers’ echo’ reverberated with perfect timing. This was to ensure that all on the northern side of Ross Oval perfectly heard each echo.
I have had the pleasure this week of attending the Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association National Conference in Sydney with our Dean of Boarding, Mr Casey Brealy. This is a volunteer, non-for-profit advocacy group who work to ensure that the educational needs of all children who are geographically isolated children in Australia are met. It has been enlightening to hear the challenges that those in rural and remote areas face. Like all Nudgee College parents, they want the best for their children and lobby peak bodies very hard to ensure they receive the opportunities that all children deserve, something that they should not have to do. We are blessed at Nudgee to be able to offer these opportunities to all students, particularly those from isolated areas.
Next week we acknowledge NAIDOC Week at Nudgee. It provides a wonderful opportunity for our whole community to recognise and celebrate the rich culture and diversity that our first nations students bring to our school. All students have been encouraged to become involved in the week of planned activities that will occur.
Finally, tomorrow, I will host the first of my 'Bodkin Chats with Mr Thomson' luncheons. Earlier this week, all students received an email inviting them to nominate for one of the limited spots. These chats will offer opportunities for our boys to provide further student voice and ask questions about the school directly to me. I will be running two of these luncheons each term, and I look forward to reporting back on how they go through the newsletter.
Kind regards
Mr Scott Thomson
