I am sure that we are all looking forward to the School holidays and Easter. This has been a very difficult term for both the School and families as we have managed the challenges of Omicron. I cannot express my appreciation enough for the superhuman effort put in by my Admin team as they have spent countless hours responding to cases, contact tracing, sending notifications and reporting to the authorities. I am also appreciative of the quick responses from families and messages of support. Together we have minimised the impact on our community as much as possible. Even with the restrictions, our staff have worked tirelessly to recreate and reinvent experiences for the students. It’s been extraordinary to witness the reimagining of Chapels, assemblies and events. We have found ways to keep everyone connected through virtual events, live feeds, sharing through Teams and other ways to reach out, celebrate and share. Thanks in particular goes to our Directors for their technical prowess in this area. Even our camps were converted to a series of day camps for the Year 5s and Year 7s. Term 2 will see the loosening of the restrictions and I look forward to the day when we are back to normal.
Visit from the Archbishop and Chair of Council
It was delightful this week to host a visit from the Archbishop last Wednesday. The purpose of her visit was to see the progress of the Chapel and to spend time with Rev. Kim. She very much enjoyed her time at PCACS. Our School Council Chair, Mr Philip Goldsworthy joined us for a tour of the Chapel. We are coming to the final stages of the build, with the landscaping now making a dramatic impact on the site. The Chapel will be completed next Term and we are making plans for the Consecration Service and Chapel services in this magnificent new place.
How do you say goodbye to a beloved Chaplain?
This week we expressed our farewells to beloved Chaplain, Rev Kim Thomas. Rev Kim joined us in 2020 and has made the most extraordinary impact on our community. It’s hard to believe she has been with us for just over two years because it feels like much longer. Rev Kim has created meaningful Chapel services, sharing her faith, speaking deeply about the teachings of Jesus and breathing life into Bible stories. But she has done so much more. Rev Kim has been the heart and soul of our School over these very challenging years, seeking to bring joy and love to all who cross her path. So many lives have been touched by her wisdom, kindness and compassion. These are some reflections:
There are not enough words to tell you how much you are loved and appreciated.
Thank you for your spiritual guidance and leading us with such authenticity.
What an absolute blessing you have been at PCACS. Your positive, thoughtful and happy disposition will be greatly missed.
Thank you for being such an angel. You really are one in a million.
I will really miss your sense of humour and vibrancy.
Thank you for all your calming words and listening ears. Wishing you well as you return to the UK and your family.
Rev Kim will be returning to the UK next month to reunite with her family. I know how much she is looking forward to being with her grandsons, George and Harry. They must be counting down the days until Grandma returns.
On behalf of our whole community, I say thank you to Rev Kim thank you for being our Chaplain, our mentor and our friend. Safe travels and God bless!!
Please watch our Farewell video.
Staff News
At the end of term we also say farewell to Mr Norm Morrison who leaves our Maintenance Team after 10 years. We farewell Mrs Sue Gould and we wish Mrs Natalie Gonsalves well as she commences her parental leave.
Have a restful holiday and a joyous Easter.
God bless
Ms Felicity House
PRINCIPAL