Future Parents eNews – Term 2 2024

Creating well-rounded individuals poised for success

Character development is a cornerstone of a Knox education. As I reflect on the past few months, I am reminded of the countless hours of dedication, the determination, and the pursuit of quality.

Young men have not only excelled in their academic pursuits, but have also displayed exceptional talent and skill in a myriad of fields. Be it in the arts, sports, co-curricular, community service, or leadership.

When our great school was founded in 1924, it was at a time when feelings of optimism were strong in people's vision of the future. Our founding Headmaster, Neil MacNeil, often spoke and wrote about a theme which endures to this day and which I believe has provided the solid foundation of a distinctively Knox approach – optimism.

It is said that the true test of a young man's character is how he acts when no one is looking, for in those moments, his character reveals its authentic self, untainted by external influences or expectations.

In essence, our youth's sense of citizenship is a testament to their commitment to building a world that stands on the pillars of empathy, responsibility, and compassion. This gives me a strong sense of optimism.

A commitment to integrity and a strong ethical foundation is one of our most important priorities here at Knox and educating students about how to become a good man informs every aspect of the day. Boys learn that there are clear expectations to do what is right. They also learn that there are many paths to becoming a good man.

As an all-boys Uniting Church school, we view Christian faith as of infinite importance as we support the spiritual growth of each student through the Uniting Church faith. Young men explore their values and establish a foundation for making responsible decisions. They explore their own definitions of self, who they are and who they want to become. They learn to forge healthy relationships and they step out of their comfort zone to explore their full potential.

My colleagues are passionate about encouraging young men to grow at their own pace. They celebrate a young man’s unique characteristics and strengths, and they take seriously their responsibility to foster and nurture boys to become the good men they are meant to be. The commitment of my colleagues to the growth and wellbeing of young men is significant.

To manage the scale and complexity of Knox, robust governance is both vital and central to ensuring the School meets its statutory obligations and I would like to recognise and thank the School Council.

Members of Council have an unwavering attention to care. They care about education, they care about Knox being the best it can be as a place of learning, and they care about the next generation and the future of the community.

The Council's dedication to our School’s mission to be an exemplary Uniting Church School and the wellbeing of our students has been instrumental in shaping the educational experience at Knox, and their guidance and support has played a vital role in shaping the School’s five-year Strategic Direction.

Character development is a cornerstone of a Knox education, and the influence of parents in this regard cannot be overstated. Parents instil moral and ethical values, shaping their sons into responsible, compassionate, and principled young men. The character nurtured at home complements the guidance and mentorship provided by our School, to create well-rounded individuals poised for success.

Each day, students are preparing for their roles in a globally connected world, and the collaborative efforts of staff, School Council, the Uniting Church and parents all play integral roles in shaping their readiness for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

This year is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on our history, celebrate our achievements, and set our sights on a future filled with even greater promise.

Extracts from the Headmaster's Address at Years 7-11 Presentation Day

Gala Day postponed

We have made the very difficult decision to postpone Gala Day, which was originally scheduled for Saturday 4 May, due to the inclement weather forecast and increasing rain expected over the weekend.

Knox Robotics touches down in Texas for VEX World Championships

Following a successful 2023-24 season (read more here), eight Knox teams are taking part in the international VEX Robotics competition in Dallas, Texas.

$100k, 100 years: Knox staff and students hit the magic number for Leukaemia Foundation

The Leukaemia Foundation will receive more than $100,000 from the Knox team after students and staff matched their fundraising goal to the School’s centenary year.

Grandparents' Day a delight at Knox Prep

Knox Grandparents' Day was a heartwarming day where Prep students had the opportunity to bring along a loved one and to share a glimpse into their learning at Knox.

Interest in Constitution takes Tyler to Canberra

In March Year 12 student Tyler Jackson spent a fruitful few days in the nation’s capital at the 29th National Schools Constitutional Convention, held at Old Parliament House.

Eighth consecutive win for Knox Swimming and Diving team at CAS Championships

Knox Grammar has retained the Thyne Challenge Shield at the Associated Schools of New South Wales (CAS) Swimming and Diving Championships for the eighth year in a row.