References ...

Can you remember those blue forms that you completed months ago?  Well, it is getting to the end of that process.  Your teachers have now written the references, they have been edited by the whole staff, including the Principal, last Wednesday afternoon ... (yes, I should have taken a photo of that) and they are to be printed this week and then distributed to you at Valedictory.  Over the last week or so I have had the privilege of reading around 250 references.  Wow!  Having worked at other schools over many years, I certainly do not take your abilities for granted.  These references document outstanding young Australians who are going to have a positive impact on the community in the years ahead ... no doubt about that!  They recognise your academic record, of course, but they extend way beyond your prowess in the class and exam rooms.  Music, in and outside of school (so many of you have AMEB certification in so many different instruments), excellence in leadership, sport, environment, social service, club activities, public speaking etc, etc etc.  The list is long and impressive.  What will you do with these documents?  Some will let them collect dust in a draw.  Some will use them when applying for a leadership position at University.  Others will use them in a part time job application over the next few years.  Collectively, they are a powerful package and every reason to be optimistic about the future.