Principal's Foreword

---

Summer seems to have arrived early this year and promises to be long and hot. While this bodes well for the school holidays, it is perhaps not so good for the farmers. Staff have been making the most of the warmer temperatures and are getting the boys out of the classroom as much as possible. The senior boys are sitting the last of their external exams, while Arts Week, camp, The Big Day Out and numerous other activities are providing adventure and variety for the junior school.

Once again, the outdoor education experience in the McKenzie Country and at Huxley Lodge has allowed the boys to challenge themselves in an alpine setting. We are fortunate to have Richard Mountain and Jennifer Macleod co-leading the programme; Richard’s army experience and training are invaluable, as is Jennifer’s extensive background in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards. A big thank you to the many parents who have generously offered their assistance with camp; we are grateful for their willingness to be involved.

David Schaumann and his team have spent many hours compiling the yearbook recently and are relieved to have finally sent it to the printers. I have seen the finished product, which is a feast of photos and information and an impressive record of the year.

A function was held for the Year 12 Leavers in the Edgar Learning Centre last week. Senior Dean Glen Clark farewelled seven boys who will take up a range of apprenticeships and study opportunities. The Year 13 Leavers will be farewelled at a formal Chapel service next Monday, followed by a celebration dinner at Forbury Sportsbar and Function Centre.

The library is a hive of festive activity as preparations get underway for the Summer Holiday Reading Programme. Boys can select books for themselves and their family members and are encouraged to take away as many as they can carry. The plan is to get as many books as possible off the library shelves and into the hands of McGlashan readers over the summer. We think this is a very worthwhile initiative so there should be some interesting summer reading coming home to you very soon. 

Centennial celebrations will begin in just 70 days - only four school weeks away. The McGlashan story is one of opportunity and challenge; it incorporates sensible traditions, local history, family and community connections and dedication to learning. I believe that the future of the college is very bright. I hope you can join with us in acknowledging this significant milestone during 2018.

Once again, I would like to thank parents for their ongoing commitment to the values of the college and the generous contribution that they make in the interests of our boys.

2017 has been an outstanding year, and I wait with anticipation for our academic results. We are already looking forward to 2018 and the opportunities it will bring.

Have a safe and enjoyable summer. 

To everyone in the extended McGlashan family, warmest regards for a very Merry Christmas.

Neil Garry