Children Are Capable Now

We have much to be grateful for at Annesley. We have a well-established tradition where we honour our graduating class, in front of the whole school in Gillingham Hall. It is a special community time where our graduating students are presented with a framed print that captures the personalised strengths, passions and values of each individual. We also celebrate the graduating cohort as a whole.

Staff and students share powerful memories and words that capture the essence of the school experience here at Annesley. This year was our largest graduating class and although we will miss them as they head off to their various secondary schools, we are excited to hear of the positive impact they will have in their communities. Below’s powerful reflections from members of our graduating class summarise their time in the Annesley community.

‘Friends, teachers, Quest, camp. Classroom fun, my very first day. Dylan and Penny’s last days. The beautiful, awe-inspiring Port Lincoln National Park, that awesome sand castle that my friends and I made. Kayaking through lush mangroves and helping out at Cleland Wildlife Park. Annesley has gifted my many memories, memories of a lifetime. Annesley has taught me values, and helped me make connections with both places and people. Annesley has imprinted part of itself into me that I’ll never be able to lose.’

‘A significant moment in time from Annesley is the world peace games, maths competition, poetry and the opportunity of school leader. These experiences have helped me develop so many new skills that I will cherish forever.’

‘I’ve really enjoyed the student agency that we are gifted with at Annesley.’

‘I believe that Annesley has been able to hone in on my interests and independence as a person.’

‘Honestly, I’ve had an amazing experience at Annesley and it’s been a gamechanger compared to the other schools I have been to. I’d like to thank my parents for actually placing me in this school.’

‘Kayaking, mountain biking, maths competitions, Quest, and opportunities that are far from ‘regular schooling’ are memories that I will take with me to high school and beyond. I have made so many amazing memories here at Annesley, like the amazing camps, to Canberra and the outback while hanging out my friends.’

‘Creativity and passion; I’ve learnt what they mean here at Annesley.’

‘I have enjoyed every last bit of my time here. Mainly because of the incredible teachers who taught me learning can be fun and given me opportunities that I wouldn’t of had at my other school thank you.’

2021 – A Year of Agility and Perseverance

2021 has yet again been a year that has required agility and perseverance from everyone, everywhere. And so, from me and my family to you and your family, may you have slow moments during the Christmas season where you are present and engaged with those you love. Where you share your gratitude for life’s simplest blessings, where you rejoice in special, shared memories and make plans to create many more. Wishing you a peaceful and meaningful Christmas and New Year.

Luke Ritchie
PRINCIPAL