Abraham Lincoln put it beautifully when he said; ‘the philosophy of the school room in one generation is the philosophy of the government in the next.’

There is no doubting the fact that globally we are in a time of immense challenge, heartache and unprecedented change. It would be very easy to argue that education is being challenged like never before. Hundreds of millions of children are learning remotely, from their homes. Yes, this is presenting a myriad of challenges for all. Yes, this is creating fascinating opportunities for us to innovate like never before. Yes, this is creating positive opportunities for those students who have skills in being independent learners who can set goals, manage their wellbeing through mindfulness and use technology as a tool for purpose. These skills are now more important than ever and being used in ways, that if we are honest, we never saw coming. Annesley’s unwavering focus on nurturing creativity and curiosity in young learners to build resilient and empathetic global citizens ready for now and beyond is more important than ever!

Term 1 2020 is one for the record books. I will never forget it! My gratitude for my team is overflowing. Every Annesley staff member deserves a medal for what they have undertaken and the positive manner in which they have delivered on so many levels this term. My heart goes to those Annesley families who are hurting. Hurting as livelihoods have been destroyed. Hurting as loved ones have been impacted. Hurting because plans have been shattered.

Know this, we are committed to supporting Annesley families in practical ways to remain at Annesley. Children need stability and a ‘constant’ in times of great change. With that in mind please contact me if you have personally been impacted by the current economic disaster and we will work with you so Annesley can remain the constant for your child during this time.

Thinking on Lincoln’s wise words, it is going to be fascinating to see how students living and learning in these times of phenomenal challenge develop, grow and harness their creativity when they are governing us ‘oldies’ in future years. My heart is genuinely full of hope and bright expectation as I think of Annesley’s students stepping boldly into what will be a vastly different world than the one we inherited when we became adults.

Luke Ritchie
Principal