From the Head of Pastoral

From the Head of Curriculum Ms Victoria Kelleher The Year 12 Class of 2020 Live a life without limits because everything is possible to those who believe.

This week has been very special as we farewell an extraordinary group of young men and women. Throughout 2020, we have reflected on what an unusual year this has been, and on the challenges faced by our Year 12 cohort. Their resilience and positive approach has not gone unnoticed and, although they may not think it now, perhaps the year that has been will have them believe more in their own abilities and know that they can adapt and face the toughest challenges.

When I think of our Year 12 cohort and how this year has shaped them, I am reminded of a valedictory speech I once heard delivered by a Year 12 student to her graduating class. She encouraged them to consider modelling their lives, not in the manner of a famous historic figure or an influential celebrity – but in something more ordinary, Carassius Auratus Auratus, commonly known as the domestic goldfish.

People make fun of the goldfish, insultingly suggesting that they are creatures of very little brain power and never get bored because every three seconds they forget everything. However, nothing could be further from the truth! More importantly, if you live like a goldfish, you can survive the toughest, most thwarting of circumstances. Goldfish can live in ice-covered ponds, bowls that haven’t been cleaned in a year, they can survive inside or outside, in ponds or in tanks, social or alone, and they don’t die from neglect (well, not immediately!). If you live like a goldfish, you learn to adapt. Give a goldfish a little tank! They give you a little body. Give them a big tank? They give you a big body. If you live like a goldfish, you will only ever be limited by the size of your own pond! Like goldfish, this Year 12 cohort refused to be limited by the size of their pond. They refused to let the challenges of 2020 limit them and they have earned the right to be remembered, not for what they lost, but for how they survived the most thwarting of circumstances. As they embark on exciting new adventures outside of St. George’s, I am confident they will continue live a life without limits.