Term 1 Week 10 Newsletter
Leadership Insights
Savour the Moment
This week, while accompanying the Year 11s on a trip to Avondale University, I was once again reminded of the serene beauty of the campus and its surroundings. Having spent four years of my life living there in the late 1990s, it was sad to realise that I had taken for granted the tranquillity, the lush green scenery, and the warm, friendly environment. A setting that encourages a wholesome and healthy lifestyle, and yet, as peaceful as it was during my time there, I often found myself yearning to be anywhere but Cooranbong.
The contrast of this experience came when we headed to Sydney, where we spent a couple of nights. The iconic sights – such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and Taronga Zoo – left us in great amazement. These are landmarks that I had seen countless times during my four years of living in Sydney during the early 2000s. And yet despite their magnificence, I remembered frequently complaining about the smog, the traffic, and the fast-paced nature of city life. Only now, as a ‘tourist’, did I realise how many things I had also taken for granted during my time there.
Reflecting on these two experiences – between the peace of Cooranbong and the bustling energy of Sydney – a strong reminder overwhelmed me: how often do we wish our lives away, only to miss out on appreciating the moments we are currently living? I see this with students, particularly those longing for the holidays or for the end of Year 12, unaware of the importance of the present moment. It’s a natural feeling to want to rush through difficult or tiring times, but in so doing, we miss the beauty in the here and now.
During the trip, I occasionally found myself reminding some of our students to put down their devices and look up to truly engage with their surroundings and the experiences before them. I too have been guilty of focusing too much on what’s next – school holidays, a major event. A conversation with one of our past students, who was part of another group, brought this into sharper focus. She shared a quote from one of my favourite authors, Dr. Suess, which perfectly captured the essence of this reflection:
‘Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory.’
This quote was a poignant reminder of how often we overlook the significance of what’s before us until it’s already passed. How many times have we taken moments for granted, only to realise later that those moments were more meaningful than we could have imagined? It’s easy to become caught up in what we’re waiting for, but the truth is that the present is fleeting, and it’s crucial to cherish it while it lasts.
As I reflect on this, I encourage you to consider the same questions I’ve been asking myself: What are you yearning for that may be robbing you of something special in the moment? What are you absorbed in now that might be distracting you from the beauty right before your eyes?
Whatever it is, I hope it’s worth it. But if it’s not, take a step back, look around, and soak in the present moment before it becomes just another memory. Life is happening right now, and often, the most incredible things are the ones we miss while we’re too focused on what’s coming next.
As we head towards the end of Term 1, let us all try to be a little more present, to appreciate the small moments, and to savour the beauty around us. After all, the moments we live today are the memories, we’ll eventually, cherish tomorrow.
Jane Talamaivao Principal
Prescott News
Year 11 Sydney Trip
Each year, our Year 11 students have the exciting opportunity to visit Avondale University in Cooranbong, NSW. They immerse themselves in campus life, living like resident students, and experiencing what university life is all about.
After a few days on campus, they embark on a bus trip to Sydney, where they explore the city sights, visit iconic destinations like Taronga Zoo, and enjoy a scenic boat ride around Sydney Harbour.
They return home exhausted but smiling, filled with unforgettable memories and stories to share.
"God is able to work through us in extraordinary ways"
An adventure that proved to be an incredible testament to God's grace and protection. From the moment our flight landed into Sydney, excitement filled the air as we drove straight to Avondale University, tucked away in Cooranbong NSW—a peaceful, intimate haven surrounded by towering jacaranda trees, lush greenery, and scenic walking tracks that seemed designed for both reflection and exploration.
Interactive info sessions introduced us to exciting career pathways. During the nursing workshop, we laughed nervously while practicing proper hand hygiene (who knew there were so many steps?) and gasped as we learned essential life-saving techniques that could literally save someone's life one day. Discussions on teaching and VET programs opened our eyes to new possibilities.
My highlight was an inspiring sermon from a final-year teaching student who challenged us to reconsider what it means to bear fruit as Christians. True fruit is the character cultivated in our hearts. When we focus on developing good character, God is able to work through us in extraordinary ways.
What was truly encouraging was witnessing students embrace their individual faith journeys. Each morning, two Christian students would meet for their own Bible study, outside of our usual worship sessions. Our Muslim students also practiced their prayers faithfully. It was inspiring to see young people from different faiths being bold in their spiritual commitments.
During our free time in Manly and Sydney CBD, one Christian student partnered with myself to distribute Bible-based literature, engaging in meaningful conversations about God with people from all walks of life.
Sydney brought thrilling adventures—getting drenched while jet boating across the harbour, solving mind-bending puzzles in escape rooms, and braving wild waves on ferry rides with the Opera House as our backdrop.
We returned home with grateful hearts, thankful for God's protection throughout our journey. This trip expanded our horizons, deepened our faith, strengthened friendships, and left us forever changed by His love.
Angelicia Maiava Camp Photographer/Nurse
MFS Road Awareness Program
Year 11 Students Gain Valuable Insights from the Road Awareness Program
Our Year 11 students recently took part in the Road Awareness Program (RAP), an eye-opening and impactful session designed to educate young drivers about road safety. Delivered by emergency service professionals, the program shared real-life stories and powerful messages about the consequences of risky driving behaviors.
Students were encouraged to reflect on their own attitudes and choices behind the wheel, while also gaining practical tips to stay safe on the road. The interactive presentation left a lasting impression, reminding our students of the responsibility that comes with driving and the importance of making safe decisions.
We thank the RAP team for delivering such an invaluable learning experience that empowers our students to be more responsible and cautious road users.
GRIP Leadership Workshop
On Wednesday, April 2nd, our Year 12 Student Leaders had the incredible opportunity to attend the GRIP Leadership Conference at the Entertainment Centre. The day was packed with inspiring sessions, practical insights, and plenty of chances to connect with other student leaders from other schools.
It was an unforgettable experience that left us feeling motivated and better equipped to make a positive impact in our school and community!
Thank you to Ms Wills for making this happen.
Maddi Meza College Captain
Chaplain's Corner
Hey Prescott Family!
It has been an awesome past few weeks. It was so great to be able to go to Avondale University with the Year 11s. We had so much fun, and it was awesome to see our students embracing each opportunity. Every time I go back to Avondale, it reminds me again how God has led in my life, and I am really humbled by His leading.
During our time in New South Wales, each of the teachers shared their testimonies. Even though I have heard Mr Lozada, Miss Maiava, Mrs T and Mr Kiratidis share their stories before, it was so touching to hear them again. I love how God has led each of our staff members to where they are now.
It is a classic question for people to ask students in high school what they are going to do when they finish school. I remember hating this question in high school because I just wasn’t sure! But as I listened to how God had led each staff member, I was reminded that when we submit our lives into God’s hands, He guides, directs and shows us where to go. Ellen White once said, “We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history.”
I give thanks to God for His protection and blessings throughout the trip. From safe travels to meaningful moments, we could see His hand in every step of the trip. I couldn’t be more proud of our Year 11s for the way they represented our school, their families, and their faith. This trip will be remembered not just for the fun we had but for the way it brought us all closer together and strengthened our faith in God.
So whether you are in Year 11, 12, in a grade below, or still seeking where you should be in life, I encourage you to surrender your plans to God. Trust Him. He loves you and only wants you to be happy. I love my life, and my job and know that I only arrived at this point in my life because of God’s guidance. Trust Him! He’s got you!
Krissie Hopkins Chaplain
Student Services and Wellbeing
New Outdoor Gym Equipment Installed
We are excited to announce that new outdoor gym equipment has been installed on school grounds, providing students with a fantastic opportunity to stay active and healthy. The new equipment includes a range of stations designed to build strength, improve fitness, and promote overall well-being.
Whether you're looking to take a break during recess, add variety to your PE classes, or enjoy a quick workout before or after school, this new facility is available to everyone. We encourage students to make the most of this great addition and incorporate it into their fitness routines.
A big thank you to everyone involved in making this project a reality. Let’s get moving and make the most of our new outdoor gym!
School Improvement Survey
A school improvement survey will be emailed to staff, students, and parents starting Monday, 19th May. We value your input and encourage you to take the time to complete it, as your feedback is essential to our ongoing progress.
The survey will close on Friday, 30th May.
How difficult will the survey be?
❖ The survey questions for the staff, student and parent surveys were designed in consultation with staff, students and parents and have been tested over many years in a significant number of Australian and International school systems. The vast majority of feedback indicates that the surveys are easy to understand and complete.
How long will it take?
❖ All surveys (staff, student, and parent) will take about 30 minutes to complete. However, time does vary, with some individuals taking less time and others taking more time.
What will be in the survey?
❖ The survey will ask you to rate your views about your school.
❖ The main aim of the survey is to find out how staff and student wellbeing can be improved in your school.
Is it important for everyone to complete the survey?
❖ To obtain an accurate picture of staff, student and parent views, it is important for as many of the selected
participants to take part as possible.
❖ Based on experiences across multiple school systems you should aim for at least 80% of staff, 90% of students and 50% of parents to complete the survey.
Who will have access to the survey information?
❖ The Adventist Schools Australia will have access to your school’s data to enable them to better support your
school.
❖ No information about your school will be provided to other schools. The information gathered for each school
is not allowed in the public domain (e.g., through media outlets, for use on the ‘my school’ website, or on the
school’s website).
Will my answers be confidential?
❖ All individual responses from staff, students and parents will be kept confidential and will not be identifiable to any other person or body outside of Insight SRC.
❖ The information provided by the survey consultants will be based on the views of all staff, students and parents
from your school that completed the survey.
❖There is no way that individuals can be identified from the results or the information provided by the survey consultants.
❖ The survey consultants are required to abide by the Australian Psychological Society’s Code of Conduct, and this is a contractual obligation for Insight SRC and Adventist Schools Australia – this ensures appropriate professional standards are in place to guarantee confidentiality.
Everyone will be issued with a login and password to complete the survey. More information will be provided at the beginning of Term 2.
Breakfast Club - Every Tuesday
Homework Club - Every Tuesday
Every Tuesday, the talented Math teacher Mr. Mattner will be available to help students enhance their math skills, in the Library from 3:20pm until 4:30pm.
Homework Club runs each week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If your child needs extra support in their studies, particularly English or Maths, they are welcome to attend. Bookings not required.
Key Dates to Note
TERM 2
Interim Reports and Parent-Teacher Interviews
Interim Reports will be published on Tuesday 29th April on SEQTA, and Parent-Teacher Interviews will be conducted on Thursday 1st May, 4:00pm - 7:00pm.
If a teacher has recommended a meeting, you will have received an invitation by now. Appointments will be available for all parents to book next week through our Website Parent Portal link. Instructions will be sent out on the day.
Athletics Carnival
Get Ready for a Fun Day at the Athletics Carnival!
Join us on Wednesday, May 7th, from 9am to 3pm at the Port Adelaide Athletics Club for an exciting day of sports and community spirit!
Parents, we’d love to see you there—bring your fold-out chairs or a picnic blanket, pack some snacks, and settle in for a great day of cheering and fun.
Students who usually catch the inter-campus or private bus will go straight to the venue. All other students should arrive at Prescott College on time for an 8:45am departure.
Buses will leave the venue at 3:00pm and may get back to their usual drop-off points a bit earlier than normal.
Our Captains are ready to spur on their teams... who will win the 2025 Athletics Carnival - Foster or Turner?
Looking forward to a fantastic day—see you there!
Photo Day
Uniform Shop
Winter Uniform
Reminder that from the beginning on Term 2, all students are expected to be in full winter uniform including the school blazer which is compulsory.
The uniform shop is open during the school term every Wednesday 12.30pm to 4pm and during the April holidays on Tuesday 15th April by appointment only.
Please call 0490 880 023 during school hours to arrange an appointment.
Community Info
- The South Australian Government is providing families with 2 x $100 vouchers per child to go towards extra curricular activity costs. See link above for more information on eligibility.
- 2025 vouchers are available to all South Australian children from Reception to Year 9 (this means the child would be born between 2010 to 2020 inclusive).
- Each eligible child can claim 2 x $100 vouchers per calendar year. Both vouchers can be used with the same provider.