The commencement of the school year assembly held in Week 2 was a significant occasion for the John Paul College community, marking the beginning of the school year with important traditions and celebrations.
New staff members were warmly welcomed, and the ceremony featured the induction of the 2025 Student Leaders, who took on the responsibility of guiding their peers throughout the year. Year 12 students also received their JPC senior badges, a symbol of their leadership role within the student body and their readiness to contribute to the College community.
The celebration highlighted the students' hard work and dedication, with special acknowledgement of those who achieved an ATAR above 80, earned subject scores over 40, and received Subject Excellence Awards.
The College was delighted to welcome back our 2024 College DUX, Asher Johnston, at the commencement assembly for the new school year. Asher delivered an inspiring speech, reflecting on his journey at John Paul College and sharing valuable insights with students, staff, and parents.
Expressing deep gratitude for the support he received throughout his schooling, Asher acknowledged the role of his teachers, peers, and various communities in shaping both his academic achievements and personal growth. He highlighted the importance of relationships, recalling how his early years at JPC were marked by nervousness and uncertainty but transformed as he built friendships and found a sense of belonging.
Asher encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones, sharing his own experiences of saying "yes" to opportunities, from joining the school production to participating in external camps. He emphasised that while pushing one’s limits can be daunting, the rewards of personal and academic growth far outweigh the fear of failure.
A key message from Asher’s speech was the importance of self-care. He candidly spoke about the challenges of balancing academic demands with personal well-being, urging students to find time for rest, connection, and activities that bring them joy. He reassured them that success is not just about relentless hard work but also about maintaining mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
Asher also reflected on the power of seeking help and supporting others, challenging students to not only ask for assistance when needed but also to check in on those around them. He stressed that true strength lies in both giving and receiving support.
Concluding his address, Asher spoke about the role of passion in achieving success. He recounted how his love for subjects like History and Media fuelled his commitment and enjoyment, making even the most challenging tasks rewarding. He encouraged students to find and pursue their passions, reminding them that success looks different for everyone and that each achievement, no matter the scale, is worth celebrating.
Asher’s speech was a powerful and heartfelt reflection on his journey at John Paul College. His words left a lasting impression on the audience, inspiring students to embrace challenges, cultivate meaningful relationships, and strive for personal and academic success in their own unique ways.