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Academic Captains

Senior School Academic Captains Classes

After the rollercoaster that was 2020, we were all hoping that 2021 would be a smooth ride. Covid had other plans and we were forced to adapt as we went through the year, but met the challenges with determination and courage as a school community.

None of this would have been possible without the efforts of our teachers. A great school is made by great teachers and Redeemer is blessed in this area. More than getting us through what seems like an impossible amount of content, each teacher leaves a positive impact on their students. Many of us may not realise these impacts at the time, but we will come to as we mature and reflect on our time at school.

This year’s College Captains aimed to create ‘Culture Through Connection’ and it was an honour to be a part of this mission. Sharing study skills and organisation tips with our own cohort, and with other cohorts through House Assembly time, was a great way to connect with students across the Senior School. We also worked with Mr Hardke and Mrs Ludwig to create a dialogue between students and staff. The Academic Honours Assemblies provided a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and acknowledge the efforts of students who had achieved academic excellence.

We were also able to speak to other students about the importance of balance and perspective. In the midst of High School, particularly in the Senior years, it can be easy to allow schoolwork to take over your life and equate your grades with your value. As Academic Captains, and also as Seniors, we’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the importance of academic success. We both agreed that striving for academic excellence develops important skills like organisation, perseverance and dedication. However, chasing a goal should never come at the cost of your wellbeing and having a narrow definition of success is not productive. Academic success can be as simple as enjoying your learning journey and taking pride in your efforts. We hope that we were able to convey these messages over the year.

It’s been an honour to serve as Academic Captains in what has been a year full of highs and lows. Throughout it all, it has been a joy to watch the community support each other as students strive to take pleasure in learning new skills and achieving their goals.

GRACE FARMER AND CALUM JONES ACADEMIC CAPTAINS 2021