St Peter's College, Adelaide, South Australia

On Sunday, we gathered to farewell our Year 10 students as they prepared to set off on their 21 Day Journey through the Flinders Ranges.

During the Blessing of the Boots ceremony, Headmaster Tim Browning reflected on the importance of this rite of passage, a time for our boys to step away from the familiar, embrace challenge and discover more about themselves, each other and the world around them.

Uncle Mickey led a smoking ceremony, while Father Theo offered words of strength and encouragement, inviting the boys to walk with courage, gratitude and open hearts.

There was a mix of nerves, excitement and anticipation as packs were shouldered and final goodbyes shared, before the boys boarded the bus and began their journey north.

A memorable win for the First XI Soccer team in Melbourne.

After trailing 2-1 in the second half, the boys produced a terrific comeback to defeat Scotch College 4-2 and return the John Roe Shield to St Peter’s College.

Goals from Year 12 students Noah, James, Leo and Jack capped off a strong team performance in a fixture that has been part of the soccer calendar since 1979. The annual match honours former teacher and TIC Soccer, Mr John Roe, who helped establish the competition between the two schools.

Congratulations to all players, Coach Paul Vanis, assistant coach Ashley Coats, staff and parents who supported the tour, and thank you to Scotch College for hosting this year’s fixture.

Students from St Peter’s College and Walford Anglican School for Girls recently joined forces for the annual Concert Bands Showcase, celebrating the talent, dedication and growth of our young musicians.

The evening featured performances from each school’s concert bands, alongside several combined ensembles, creating a vibrant and authentic co-educational music-making experience. Through collaboration, students not only refined their musical skills but also formed connections with like-minded peers who share a passion for performance.

Congratulations to all performers and staff involved in a wonderful evening of music.

National Reconciliation Week invites all Australians to reflect on our shared history and consider the role each of us plays in building a more reconciled future.

This year’s theme, All In, reminds us that reconciliation is a shared responsibility, requiring learning, listening and action.

Across the week, students and staff took part in experiences that encouraged reflection, connection and respect for culture and Country. Senior students welcomed Daniel Motlop to Muster, where he shared reflections on identity, leadership and community. Junior School students explored this year’s theme through classroom learning, while representatives from the Senior School and Junior School attended the Reconciliation SA Breakfast and Aboriginal Power Cup Opening Ceremony.

Our winter sports first teams also received their Indigenous guernseys during a Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle John.

Together, these experiences remind us that reconciliation is not a destination, but an ongoing commitment requiring all of us to play a part.

Congratulations to Oliver Francou (DAC 2024) on being selected by the West Coast Eagles with pick 3 in last night’s Mid-Season Rookie Draft.

Across his years in the St Peter’s College Football Program, Oli built a reputation as a hard-working and highly competitive midfielder. His outstanding 2024 season was recognised with the Gosse Medal as the SAAS Division 1 Player of the Year.

His selection follows an impressive start to SANFL League football with North Adelaide, where he is coached by his father and SPSC Teacher, Josh Francou.

We wish Oli every success as he begins his AFL journey with the Eagles.

Our Year 5 and 6 French students have been putting their language skills to use in a very real way, writing to penpals in Canada.

As part of the project, students introduced and described themselves in French and English, sharing details about where they live, their families, hobbies and interests. They also learnt how to write and address a postcard, discovering that writing for a real audience makes every word count.

The first cards from Canada have now arrived, much to the excitement of the class. Students are now preparing their replies, written entirely in French.

Their Canadian penpals attend a French-language school where they are learning English, giving both groups the chance to practise a new language with someone learning alongside them.

Congratulations to Woodcock House, crowned champions of today’s Senior School Swimming Carnival.

Da Costa House claimed the Junior House Cup, while Farr House took out the Senior House Cup.

Two carnival records were broken during the day, with Max (Year 12) setting a new Open 50m Freestyle record and Farr House breaking the U16 6 x 50m Freestyle Relay record.

Congratulations to our Age Champions (group pictured):
· U13: Champion – Jayden (HWD) | Runner Up – Oscar (HWK)
· U14: Champion – Henry (FLL) | Runner Up – Hugo (FLL)
· U15: Champion – Tom (DAC) | Runners Up – Jack (HWK) and Nicholas (HWD)
· U16: Champion – James (FRR) | Runner Up – Jimmy (FLL)
· Open: Champion – Max (WDK) | Runner Up – Nick (MAC)

Well done to all students for their commitment in the pool throughout both the trials and carnival, and for the fantastic display of House spirit and competition across the day. Thank you to the staff whose organisation ensured such a successful event.