Senior School Report

by Director of the Senior School, Mr Hamish McCrum

When interviewed for a position at St Patricks College, then Headmaster Peter Casey was a little concerned about whether or not I would stick around.  I replied “after eight years at Loreto, three at Damascus, two at St Augustine’s-Kyabram and one at Notre Dame-Shepparton, he could expect me to be gone by about Easter”.  I commenced in 2005.  In my time here I have worked with some giants.  I was allowed to follow in the footsteps of two fabulous maths teachers and educators in John Cosgriff and the late Steve Callahan.  Both men totally committed to their craft and their students.  I have forged many good friendships with staff and families which will endure and I have some fabulous memories.  One of the most striking things about St Patrick’s College is the strength of the community.  The old boys really do strive to look after their mates who are not doing so well.  In my own family when one of us faced a significant health issue, the support from the school leadership, colleagues, students and families was immense and made that part of our journey so much more manageable.  I am proud of the contribution I have been able to make to the staff and the boys I have worked with, and I have enjoyed seeing students leave us to take their place in and shape the world. My record is not perfect, there will always be those students whom I could not inspire in mathematics or religion, and those discipline or welfare issues which I could have handled better.  If this rings true for you, I apologise.  After 18 years it is time to move on and hopefully make a positive  contribution to Damascus College.  It is not so much goodbye, Ballarat is a small enough town that we will still be seeing each other.  I wish all of the St Patrick’s community the best for 2023 and the years ahead, and I thank you for all you have done for me over this time.

Year 11 and Year 12 students are reminded that Unit 3/4 results are released on Monday December 12 at 7:00am by VCAA, and ATARs are also released by VTAC at this time.  The results and ATAR service is a free service however, students need to pre-register prior to December 12 so as to receive results on this day.  Students are able to register by going to https://resultsandatar.vic.edu.au  They will need their VCAA number which can be obtained by emailing Mr Steven Biggin or contacting the KRC.  Preferences may be changed for first round offers up until 4pm December 14.