2024 Reflections: A Year of Growth, Faith, and Community at OPAC
As we draw to the close of another year at Oran Park Anglican College, it is with great joy and gratitude that I reflect on all we have achieved together as a community. This year’s theme, “Courage: Embracing Challenges, Inspiring Change,” has been lived out in remarkable ways by our students, staff, and families.
Throughout the year, our students have faced challenges with courage and determination, discovering new strengths, deepening their learning, and growing in character. They have demonstrated the habits of powerful learners—courage, curiosity, craftsmanship, collaboration, and compassion—both in the classroom and beyond. Whether tackling new subjects, persevering through complex tasks, or showing kindness and support to one another, their resilience and commitment have been truly inspiring.
As a College, we have also celebrated growth in other areas. Our facilities continue to expand with the addition of the new Senior School building and amphitheatre, which will provide spaces for music, recreation, and collaboration. These developments represent not just physical growth but also our ongoing commitment to providing an environment where every student can thrive.
This year, we have been reminded of the precious and enduring value of our faith. Our College motto, “of greater worth than gold,” inspired by 1 Peter 1:6-7, calls us to see the challenges of life not as obstacles but as opportunities to refine and strengthen our faith, character, and purpose. In a world that often feels uncertain, this truth reminds us of our unchanging worth in God’s eyes.
Thank you
I would also like to take this moment to express my heartfelt thanks to our amazing staff for their incredible dedication and hard work throughout this year. Every member of our staff, from teachers to support personnel, has played a vital role in nurturing and guiding our students. Their commitment to our vision, their perseverance through challenges, and their unwavering support for each student’s growth and development have made a profound impact on our college community.
To our parents and carers, thank you for your partnership throughout the year. Your encouragement and support have played an essential role in your children’s growth.
Merry Christmas
As we approach the Christmas season, we are reminded of the ultimate source of hope and peace: the birth of Jesus Christ. Isaiah 9:6 proclaims, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” This message brings comfort and assurance that no matter the challenges we face, we have a Saviour who walks with us.
As we look forward to the end of term, let us also take time to rest, reconnect, and reflect during the holidays. I pray this Christmas season brings your family moments of joy, peace, and togetherness. May the hope of Christ fill your hearts as we remember that He is the reason for the season.
Thank you for another wonderful year at Oran Park Anglican College. I look forward to what 2025 holds as we continue to grow and learn together.
Wishing you all a blessed Christmas and a safe, refreshing holiday season.
God bless,
Mrs Naomi Wilkins
Principal
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge.”
Psalm 19:1-2
