What is your Reason for Being?

Written by Mrs Josie Crisara OAM (College Principal)

09 February 2026

Welcome to the beginning of another exciting school year! I hope you all enjoyed a restful and refreshing holiday break and are excited to have your children returning with energy, optimism, and a sense of anticipation for the year ahead.

 

A new school year is always a special time — a chance for fresh starts, new friendships, new learning, and new opportunities. For our students, it is a time to grow in confidence, curiosity, and independence. For our families, it is a time to reconnect with our school community and strengthen the partnership that supports every child’s success.

During opening assemblies and Information Nights, I presented the Japanese concept of Ikigai which literally translates to a reason for being. It is part of the human condition that we are striving to find our purpose in life. Ikigai helps us to define "The Secret for a Long and Happy Life".

Its premise is that in life, we have

• Those things we love
• Those things the world needs
• Those things we are good at
• Things we get paid to do

 

Ikigai can be found where all four intersect.

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At our school, we remain committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired to do their personal best. We have high expectations and believe in our school values of compassion, honesty, kindness, respect and excellence — and hence helping every child develop not only strong academic skills, but also strong character.

Thank you for the trust you place in us and for the vital role you play in your child’s education. We value your partnership and encourage open communication, collaboration, and shared commitment to our students’ wellbeing and learning. Together, as a school community, we will make this a year of learning, belonging, achievement, and joy.