Last week, we enjoyed the opportunity to Commission our Deputy Principal, Penelope Monger. I am sure you are aware that Penelope commenced in the role in Term 2 last year; but unfortunately, due to the ongoing constraints in having large numbers of people gather in one place, it has been deferred on three separate occasions.

The ceremony has a number of features, including an address given by the Deputy Principal which you will also find contained within this newsletter. Another is the presentation of symbols. This is an occasion where students and staff come forward and present an item, each symbolic of a facet of her role. When they do so, a short statement is read, and in this week’s newsletter I share with you that which is said. I hope you find it of interest.

Ms Monger, the students welcome you as our Deputy Principal. The School is a community which serves the needs of all its young people. Take this school tie as a symbol of your responsibility for the leadership and management of the students in your care.

The Mt Ridley Secondary school welcomes you as our Deputy Principal. Ours is a place which has a valued history and also a bright future. We continue to support the growth and welfare of the school community in all its endeavours. Receive the school bell as a symbol of our origins.

The School values the significant contribution you will make in leading and guiding the School. We wish to continually improve and look eagerly to a bright future. Please accept this quill which represents the written word and the passing on of knowledge from one generation to the next.

The rich and varied activities beyond the classroom form an essential part of educational life. It challenges and empowers students to pursue excellence and prepare them for success. Accept this tennis racquet as a symbol of your guidance and responsibility for all we undertake in these areas of learning.

Through the grace of God, we are called to be shepherds of those in our care and to have the life of Christ as our example. Receive this Bible as a symbol of this great shared responsibility for the spiritual growth of our students, of our community and of each other.

This violin symbolises the creative spirit within all Hume students. We understand the importance of nurturing a culture with a love of all things artistic and encourage everyone an appreciation of The Arts. May it continue to flourish under your stewardship.

We welcome you as Deputy Principal. We are all guardians of the School and share the responsibility for its ongoing prosperity. Receive this key as a symbol of the care and commitment for its physical and material welfare.

The School nurtures each individual and promotes a positive sense of wellbeing. Receive this candle as a reminder of the light you provide giving guidance to the children on their journey to adulthood. Keep it alight and shine it on the path to their future.

The teaching staff acknowledge the leadership you will offer in the development of the body, mind, spirit, heart and soul. Take this book as a symbol of our shared endeavour in educating the students the School and promoting in them a love of learning that will last a lifetime.

Bill Sweeney - Principal