Despite the miserable weather that started this week, our school has been absolutely buzzing with energy and excitement as we launch into the new academic year. It has been a true joy to finally welcome all of our new Year 1s, each one wide-eyed and full of possibility. There’s something magical about these first days, as our littlest learners take the leap into “big school,” hand in hand with their families and cheered on by our entire community.
Being part of an all-through school is a privilege that never loses its wonder. Each year, as we bid a fond farewell to our incredible Year 13s, sending them off into the world with pride, we are equally fortunate to welcome a new cohort of curious minds. This week, as I watched a Year 1 child struggling with a slightly-too-large backpack and nervously peering into a classroom, I saw an older student pause, kneel down, and offer a reassuring smile: “It’s okay, I remember my first day too. You’ll like it here, it's fun.” It’s these moments, where DC’s culture comes full circle. It reminds us as educators just how lucky we are. We get to witness the very first steps and the triumphant leaps; to watch your children grow from tentative beginnings into confident, world-ready young people. It’s a journey we never take for granted.
The first few weeks always bring their own challenges: unfamiliar routines, new faces, and rediscovering what it means to learn together after summers spent adventuring with family. But it doesn’t take long before the rhythms of school life return, laughter in the corridors, games on the playground, and the joy of seeing familiar teachers in PE, Chinese, Art, Drama, and, of course, the ever-wonderful songs with Mr McLeay.
Don’t forget, our annual Parent Information Fair is coming up on the 28 August. Keep an eye on our website and the Explorer for more details. In the meantime, please enjoy some photos of our students settling in, making friends, and reminding us all just how wonderful it is to be part of this vibrant, caring community.
We hope you have the best weekend with your children!
