Helping Students Grow in Character
As a College, we continue to value high standards, clear expectations, and the development of young people of character who represent our community with pride. In this edition, we clarify uniform expectations, address student safety considerations, and celebrate the creativity and craftsmanship evident in our Visual Arts program.
Uniform and Earrings
Parents often comment on the high standard of presentation of our students, whether they are seen on campus or in the local community. I must admit, with a little bias, that our uniform is one of the best in the Macarthur area. More importantly, however, we are committed to developing the whole student — young people who are wise, resilient, compassionate and courageous, and who present themselves in a way that reflects these values and the expectations of our College.
At times, challenges arise when the line between what is acceptable and unacceptable becomes blurred. In response, we believe it is important to be clear and consistent in our expectations.
Earrings are one such uniform requirement. While they may seem minor in the scheme of things, they play a role in maintaining the high standards we value. Recently, we have had an increasing number of students obtain ear and nose piercings during term time, explaining that they must remain in place for 6–12 weeks while healing. This has resulted in the use of band-aids and other coverings, which are often ineffective, falling or hanging off during the day.
In line with our uniform policy, please note the following:
Our uniform policy clearly states that no jewellery is to be worn, with the exception that girls may wear one small stud or sleeper earring in the lower ear (matching pair).
If a student chooses to have their ears pierced:
- We strongly encourage that piercings take place during school holidays to allow adequate healing time.
- If a piercing occurs during term time, students must wear clear plastic or bioplast retainers during the school day. These retainers can be inserted at the time of piercing, allowing students to comply with uniform expectations immediately. Families are encouraged to request this option when booking the piercing.
- For boys, metal earrings or studs are not permitted at any time.
- Covering earrings with band-aids is not an acceptable alternative, as this approach is inconsistent and often ineffective.
It is the responsibility of students and families to ensure that uniform expectations are met each day. If a student arrives at school wearing non-compliant jewellery, they may be withdrawn from class to work in Student Services or sent home until the issue is resolved.
Thank you for your ongoing support in maintaining the high standards of presentation that reflect the values of our College community.
E-Bikes and E-Scooters
The use of e‑bikes and e-scooters for travel to and from the college is not supported. E‑bikes and e-scooters present increased safety risks for students, and their high cost creates concerns around theft or damage, for which responsibility may be attributed to the college. For these reasons, students should not be riding e‑bikes or E-Scooters to or from campus.
Visual Arts Creativity and Craftsmanship
Mrs Newington recently shared the extraordinary work of one of our budding artists, Elena R (Year 8). I hope to further highlight the craftsmanship of other students in future. See below the artist’s comments on each artwork:
Artwork 1. Sunshine and Freckles
This artwork is all about the joy that you can’t hide. I wanted the drawing to feel happy and warm. I used earthy greens, orange/ brown tones to show the form of hair, and gentle peach colours. I chose to use these colours because they feel natural and full of life. I was inspired by the genuine happiness, the kind where you can’t stop smiling, not posed or perfect. Drawing her made me feel warm and cheerful, like capturing a picture of what pure, honest happiness looks like.
Artwork 2. Coloured Emotions
This artwork feels like stepping into two worlds at once through the use of bright, warm, and cool tones instead of regular skin tones. I used red, orange, yellow, and shades of pink to represent warmth and confidence. I used blue, purple, and light shades of pink to represent calmness and softer feelings. For this artwork, I was inspired by the idea that people can feel two emotions at the same time. While drawing this piece, I felt creative and curious, wondering what this person might be feeling.
God bless,
Mr Steve Owen
Deputy Principal – Head of Senior School