Principal's Message Term 4 Week 8 | Dr Michael Carroll

Dear members of the Terrace Family,

As I have mentioned previously, students from all year levels commenced their final exams this week. This is when all their hard work and dedication to study will pay dividends. I would encourage the boys to utilise the revision materials made available for each subject, and to access the tutorials offered by many of our staff. It is also important to note that good exam preparation includes checking that students have the correct equipment for each exam. As parents, you can support your sons during what can be a stressful period by ensuring that they are eating well and getting adequate sleep. Thorough preparation is the key to success in exams.

This week saw the last meeting of the GTOBA and the Terrace Foundation for 2024, while next week, the School Advisory Council will meet for the final time this year. I take this opportunity to thank each of these groups for their valuable contributions to the College this year, and offer my personal thanks for the support afforded to me during 2024. The dedication, expertise, and commitment these groups provide is why Terrace, and perhaps more specifically, Terrace in 2024, has been so successful. Thank you to all involved.

I would particularly like to acknowledge Mr Mark Christensen, President of the GTOBA, Mr Anthony Joseph, Chair of the Terrace Foundation and Mr Peter Shields, Chair of the School Advisory Council, whose leadership, guidance, and support have been simply outstanding throughout 2024. I particularly thank Peter Shields, who finishes his tenure as Chair of the School Advisory Council this year. Peter’s wisdom, reflections and support have been exceptional during his time as Chair, and I thank him for all he has done for Terrace and me over many years.

In recent weeks, the tragic loss of young lives due to online bullying has sparked widespread concern. Terrace has taken a strong stance on this issue, offering a range of educational programs for students, parents, and staff. However, this is a problem that requires a national response. While Terrace will continue to address it through open dialogues with students and targeted educational initiatives, meaningful progress can only be made with the active support and intervention of parents. The negative impact of social media affects us all, and we must come together to protect our children.

Next week is the final week of the 2024 school year for our students. All exams will be finalised before the end of the year, which is marked by a Thanksgiving Liturgy on Friday 29 November. Students will be dismissed at 12.30 pm, following the conclusion of the Liturgy.

Have a great week.
God Bless.

Dr Michael Carroll
College Principal