DEPUTY PRINCIPAL (TEACHING & LEARNING)
Mrs Kat Elliott
While some of us have been at Pedare for a longer time, others like myself are just starting out on this journey. I hope that everyone else who is new to the College is feeling as welcomed as I am – I have been delighted by the warmth and kindness the community has already extended to me. Last year, I said goodbye to the beautiful community at St Martins Lutheran College in Mt Gambier, where I held the position of Deputy Principal. It has been reassuring to see the way Pedare staff, students and families have already reached out to help me feel at home. I look forward to continuing to meet more of you in the coming weeks and finding ways I can contribute to this vibrant community.
As I pause to reflect on the learning that has begun here in 2024, I am inspired. Pedare is filled with moments of insight, collaboration, sharing wisdom, and, most importantly, connecting with one another. One of the greatest strengths of humankind is the very fact that we are so different, and in possession of a great range of qualities and talents; however, our other equally greatest strength is how we come together. By working together throughout 2024, we will be able to overcome the many challenges that will inevitably come our way, and we will help each other find joy and pride in our achievements.
Week 2 has provided an opportunity to celebrate the academic achievements of the Graduating Class of 2023. We recognise that this is not something a student accomplishes in isolation or in a single moment. It is the culmination of a great team of people: their Year 12 teachers, all the teachers and educators who have supported their learning journey, their family, friends and classmates. It is the culmination of a sustained effort through many challenges and a commitment to progress and continual growth.
Inspired by the class of 2023, all students at every year level can commit to personal progress in 2024. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, we find this timeless reminder: “Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing”. I encourage you to savour the joys that 2024 brings and find strength in your community to meet the challenges. It is through these connections that we achieve our best.
