The Life Newsletter

Senior School – T2 W8 2026

Showcasing Student Talent Across the College

There is a palpable energy across the College at present, driven by an abundance of co-curricular opportunities and a highly active Student Representative Council (SRC). Increasingly, our students are not only participating in College life but shaping it—designing initiatives, building community, and creating moments that reflect the vibrant spirit of OPAC.

At OPAC, education is inherently experiential. It extends far beyond the classroom – onto the stage, across our sporting fields, and into the many excursions, tours and performances that define the student journey. These experiences are where learning comes alive, where skills are refined through practice, and where confidence, creativity and character are formed.

OPAC’s Got Talent: A New Tradition Begins

This week marked the inaugural OPAC’s Got Talent, a student-led initiative brought to life by our SRC and Student Prefects. Designed to inject fun and energy into assemblies while showcasing the often hidden talents within our community, the event proved an outstanding success.

Behind each performance were hundreds of hours of practice—evidence of the craftsmanship and dedication we aim to foster in our students. Five outstanding finalists took to the stage before the Senior School:

  • Addison (Gymnastics)
  • Gio (Singing)
  • Abi (Gymnastics)
  • Chelsea (Singing and Keyboard)
  • Rebekah (Singing)

Each performer demonstrated remarkable courage, stepping onto the stage in front of their peers and delivering polished, engaging acts that were met with both admiration and raucous, enthusiastic support.

Adding to the occasion, prizes were generously donated by Jamberoo Recreation Park and our local Podium Gelatissimo, reinforcing the strong community connections that enrich our College.

In a moment that students will not soon forget, Mr Gillies delivered an impromptu—and decidedly cringe-inducing performance involving spaghetti. It both impressed and horrified in equal measure, providing comic relief as judges deliberated.

Ultimately, the standard was exceptionally high, with very little separating the finalists. Abi was named the inaugural winner, her gymnastics display showcasing outstanding technical prowess and composure.

The event was vibrant, entertaining and deeply affirming, highlighting not only the breadth of talent within OPAC but also the willingness of our students to take risks, support one another and celebrate excellence.

Podium Performance: Music in the Community

Last week, OPAC’s musical talent extended beyond the College grounds, with four of our ensembles—Intermediate and Senior Stage and Concert Bands, performing at the Podium.

For two hours, our students created a rich musical atmosphere for local shoppers, performing a diverse repertoire including LOVE, It Had Better Be Tonight and a dynamic John Williams mash-up. Passersby were clearly impressed, many stopping to listen, applaud and appreciate the quality of performance.

These opportunities not only refine musical skill but also build confidence and community connection – hallmarks of an OPAC education.

Looking Ahead: Endeavour Assembly

We now look forward to our upcoming Endeavour Assembly, an important occasion where we recognise and celebrate the sustained effort and diligence of our students across the first semester of 2026.

Our students continue to demonstrate the learning character we value:
courage, curiosity, collaboration, craftsmanship and compassion, each contributing to the pursuit of their personal best.

As is often said, we cannot expect anything more than your best, whatever that looks like in terms of results. It is the commitment to growth, effort and learning that matters most.

We will also ‘endeavour’ to have Mid-Year Reports ready for distribution in the final week of term, so you can better understand the effort and academic resilience of your child.

Together, these events reflect a thriving co-curricular culture at OPAC – one that is student-driven, joy-filled and deeply aligned with our commitment to experiential learning. We are immensely proud of our students and the richness of talent, enthusiasm and character they bring to our community each day.

God bless, 

Mr Steve Owen
Deputy Principal – Head of Senior School

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