“To teach children you must first love them, and love them all equally” - St Marcellin Champagnat.
As a collective Year 12 cohort, we are entering a time of mixed emotions as we near the end of our time at Marist. However, it is in times like these that we are able to reflect on the good and the bad, and the blessings and privileges that we have been gifted. Along the way, we have learned to cherish every moment we have with each other, rooted in compassion and love. It is in this grounded love, that we find the strength to grow; as individuals, and as a Marist family.
Reflecting on our 2024 Captain’s theme, 'Let your goodness grow’, this encapsulates the ongoing development of Marist boys, as they continue to prosper into fine young men. We believe each and every student has a unique gift, and throughout the year we have witnessed these gifts first-hand with our peers letting their lights shine, and growing in the goodness they have obtained. We trust that everyone’s time at Marist laid a strong foundation that allows boys to further develop their gifts, in the now, and into the future.
We have been very fortunate and blessed to have led the College this year. This platform has enabled us to lead not only for our peers, but lead with them by our side. Like that of a plant, we laid our seeds here in the early stages of our Marist journey in the Junior School. As each year passed on, this plant began to sprout as we rode the waves of highs and lows, and ultimately grew from the experiences and opportunities that we were presented with. We then took the scary but exciting leap into the Senior School, and this plant began growing its leaves, symbolising a newfound sense of life and maturity. Then we fast forward to now, the plant is on the verge of completion, with a strong trunk foundation, and a beautiful crown of leaves. But we must remember our roots; our families, our peers, our teachers. All these people have helped us flourish through nurturing our strengths and gifts, to help us recognise our full potential.
We give thanks and extend our profound gratitude for our time here at Marist College Canberra, and wish everyone the very best for everything to come.
Sam Laria, Daniel Bailey and Keshera Peiris
2024 College Captains