Foundations for the Future
It is my pleasure to warmly welcome students, families and staff back to Oran Park Anglican College for Term 3. I trust that the winter holiday break provided opportunities for rest, renewal and quality time with family and friends. The rhythm of a school year is demanding, and holiday periods offer an important opportunity to pause, refresh and return with renewed energy for the term ahead.
OPAC core values seen in the world
Over the break, I enjoyed a period of refreshment and had the opportunity to travel to the United Kingdom. Among the highlights was spending an afternoon at the Wimbledon Championships, soaking in the unique atmosphere and traditions of one of the world’s great sporting events. I also discovered that I may have developed an unexpected enthusiasm for castles, managing to visit several across England, Ireland and Scotland. After a while, they do start to blur together—towers, stone walls, tapestries, paintings and the occasional dramatic view—but each one tells a story of perseverance, vision and people who were building not just for the present, but for generations to come. Standing within buildings that have endured for centuries was a timely reminder of the importance of strong foundations, careful stewardship and a long-term commitment to a purpose greater than ourselves. These are values that resonate deeply with our work as educators as we seek to invest in young people whose impact will extend well beyond their years at school.
These experiences prompted me to reflect on many of the values that underpin life at our College. Whether observing the craftsmanship that has preserved historic buildings for generations, the courage and perseverance of elite athletes competing at Wimbledon, or the curiosity that comes from exploring new places and cultures, I was reminded that character and excellence are developed over time. These same values are reflected in our commitment to nurturing Powerful Learners who demonstrate Courage, Curiosity, Craftsmanship and Collaboration in all aspects of their learning and growth.
Last term for Year 12
Term 3 is always a significant term for our Year 12 students. For many, this will be their final full term as students of the College, having begun their journey with us in Kindergarten more than thirteen years ago. It is a season marked by both excitement and challenge as students prepare for their Trial HSC examinations, celebrate their graduation later this term and look ahead to their HSC examinations next term. Our prayer is that each student would approach these important milestones with confidence, perseverance and a healthy sense of perspective. Success at this stage of their schooling is not simply measured by examination results but also by the character, resilience and maturity they have developed throughout their years at the College. I encourage our whole community to keep our Year 12 students in your prayers as they navigate this important season.
Upcoming building works
As our College continues to grow, we remain committed to ensuring that our facilities keep pace with the needs of our students, staff and families. I am pleased to share that we expect to commence groundwork on the extension of our carpark later this term, adding valuable capacity to support our expanding community. In addition, Camden Council has approved plans for our next Senior School building, which will be constructed parallel to E Block on a portion of the current carpark. This exciting development represents another important step in the ongoing growth of the College and our commitment to providing high-quality learning environments for current and future students.
Looking ahead, there will inevitably be some disruption to parking arrangements as these projects overlap during the coming year. While detailed plans will be communicated well in advance, I would like to provide early notice so that families are aware of the changes that may occur. We greatly appreciate your patience and understanding as we undertake these important improvements, which will help ensure that our facilities continue to support the high-quality educational experience our community values.
Mrs Squire’s next chapter
I would also like to share with our College community that Mrs Jenny Squire, Deputy Principal – Head of Junior School, will conclude her time at Oran Park Anglican College at the end of this year. Mrs Squire’s husband has recently been appointed as the new Regional Bishop of Wollongong, and this exciting ministry opportunity will see their family relocate. After much prayer and consideration, Mrs Squire has determined that this is the right time for her to embrace this next chapter. Mrs Squire has served our College faithfully and with distinction for almost seven years, leading the Junior School with wisdom, grace and deep commitment to the flourishing of our students and staff. While we are saddened by this news and know that Mrs Squire will be greatly missed, we are deeply grateful for her significant contribution to our community and pray God’s blessing on her and her family as they follow His leading.
As is common in schools, periods of recruitment and renewal form part of sustaining a healthy and growing organisation. Alongside a number of other staffing appointments that will be made over the coming months, we will commence the search for a new Deputy Principal – Head of Junior School. We are thankful for the strong leadership team, dedicated staff and positive culture that God has established within our College, and we remain committed to attracting exceptional educators and leaders who share our vision of being a faith-fuelled community of excellence. We would value your prayers as we seek to appoint the right people to support the continued growth of the College and the delivery of outstanding Christian education for our students.
As we begin Term 3 together, I am reminded of the words of Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
God bless,
Mrs Naomi Wilkins
Principal
