The best version of themselves
In recent weeks students enjoyed plenty of opportunities to explore their creativity through music and drama. The Senior School Concert with Grade 8 showcased a raft of talent. Our musicians were magnificent; I particularly enjoyed the improvised pieces. The Kindergarten and Grade 1 Winter Concert was special; The Holly Jolly Pirates of Pinataville saw each student singing his or her heart out and every audience member grinning. Our Grade 6 Drama Club performed charming adaptations of The Balloon Tree and Grandma and the Pirates for Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2 students on Monday. Sadly, I had to miss this event as it coincided with the Middle School Financial Fluency Club. Tonight sees the Grade 2-5 Winter Concert; I imagine Sally and I are not the only parents looking forward to this joyful event.
The Senior School Major Production was excellent. As a lively exploration of gender equality in education, ‘Blue Stockings’ focused on women’s fight to graduate from Girton College at Cambridge University in the late 19th Century. I used to be a summer school tutor at Girton so I was eager to learn more about its origins. The events featured in the play may have taken place over 100 years ago, but the play feels utterly relevant in a world where many young women are still denied the basic right to an education. Watching the characters celebrate their intelligence, discover their passions, and find their voices was inspiring. Well done to all involved in this heartfelt production.
School Spirit has been much in evidence at events and colour days organized by the three divisions, SJR Athletics, and the SJRAA. Monday was Eagles Day in celebration of SJR Hockey. Hundreds of students and family members came to Dutton Arena to support our High School Girls and High School Boys as they took their turns on the ice. After two hard-fought games, the teams gave over the ice to our younger hockey players for a fun Skills Competition. It was a great day. Thank you to everyone who took part and all our hockey coaches.
When we started school in early September, the end of term seemed like an age away and yet here we are. This term has been tremendously productive. Our students responded positively to the high expectations we set them and worked conscientiously to maximise their potential. They were challenged every day to be the best version of themselves. I am proud of them and hope they enjoy a well-deserved break.
All that remains is for Sally and me to wish you a safe and happy holiday season and a peaceful New Year. I look forward to welcoming students back to School on Monday, January 7, 2019.
Jim Keefe
Head of School
SJR is proud to be accredited and affiliated with several local, national and international educational organizations.
St. John’s-Ravenscourt School was founded in 1820 principally to serve the children of the Selkirk settlers. By 1834 there were forty students, evenly split between boys and girls. SJR has inevitably grown and changed over the years since, though its success throughout has been unimpeachable. Today the programs are as strong as our reputation. A strong academic program is paired with an equally strong attention to the values of stewardship, ethical leadership, and excellence in all areas of academic, social and athletic life.