Year 12 students conclude their formal schooling this week after 13 years of education - what a significant achievement to be recognised and celebrated. Our students have dedicated and committed themselves to their education and they have much to be proud of in their achievements.

The celebrations this week for Year 12 students, and then at the end of November with the Valedictory Service, is but a milestone and a step into a future with infinite possibilities. Possibilities to be created, shaped, imagined and realised in the future. It is as Abraham Lincoln noted, a future yet to be created. Our students have been taught and have learnt a toolbox of skills, values, knowledge and information that have equipped them for life. Drawing on their experiences and their shaping as a young person will enable success in their individual pathways in the future.

Our congratulations and our blessings are extended to our Year 12 students and their families at this important time. Thank you for the contributions, service and friendship that you have given to our community, where you have contributed, built and enriched our lives. May our students go forward with confidence in their skills and abilities, finding a balanced and joyful pathway that serves and enriches others.

Term 4 also allows us to reflect on the many achievements of the year, including our House Competition. Since the start of the term we have recognised our 2017 student leaders for their services and commissioned our 2018 leaders including College Captains and House Captains. Our blessings and prayers are with the incoming leaders as they take up the opportunity to serve in our community.

During our House Chapel last week, the results were tallied for the announcement of the winning House for the R.E.Bruss House Shield. This year, Emerald were the victors with a narrow win over second placed, Topaz. Well done to all the members of Emerald, including their enthusiastic and diligent House Captains.

Blessings and peace as we celebrate this coming week, the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation, marking the formation of the global Lutheran Church.

Mr Cain McDonald
PRINCIPAL