The College
College Captains
College Captain 2013
Bianca Palmer
When young people are provided with a community like A.B. Paterson College, a community that surrounds them with a genuinely encouraging environment, true aspirations and talents can be discovered. The College has been home to countless young ambitious students for over 20 years and has been the rock to, not only myself, but also many of my peers; a College with a unique inspiring community, where staff go above and beyond expectations to meet each student’s needs and goals. It is this ‘all hands on deck’ approach from the teaching staff and support staff which has been the driving force since the foundation of the College. With a unique teaching framework, teachers are always willing to assist students by giving additional help or support.
The College’s motto of Excellence, Care and Commitment is met by each student. We, as pupils, are not defined by the words of this motto but rather dedicated to upholding it during our time here. We show excellence by shining in our academic studies and co-curricular activities; we show care towards our school work, our local and global communities, and each other; and we show commitment to all that we undertake, say and do.
The College’s community is certainly unique. Students are strongly encouraged and easily become confident in the friendly and welcoming environment. It is certainly a privilege to be a part of this College that allows students to find their own purpose and strengths with the guidance of staff. Furthermore, this sense of community extends from Prep to Year 12, as the Senior and Junior Schools work closely together in an independent, co-educational system. It is no surprise that A.B. Paterson College is a leading school on the Gold Coast.
The pastoral care system in the Senior School allows students from Years 7 to 12, to be blended each morning in tutor groups of all ages for roll call and weekly Personal Development sessions. These morning sessions become a student’s second home; it is here relationships with peers and tutors are formed. The system has allowed my peers and I, to not only be mentored, but has also given us the opportunity to mentor younger students. I have always looked forward to, and enjoyed, starting my school day with both the older and younger students of the homeroom.
Education is a benefit to us all and we must utilise every opportunity and direction that is offered. As individuals, we often look past our education, focusing on our futures, resulting in the journey of how we reached our goals to be forgotten. I can honestly say that, after being a student at the College for over seven years, A.B. Paterson College provides each individual with opportunities, inspiration and encouragement to achieve any goal. At the same time, the positive learning culture of this College offers precious memories of how those goals were reached.
I encourage all students to aim high, take the opportunities offered, and immerse themselves in a school community dedicated to your happiness and success.
College Vice Captain 2013
Pietro Alfieri
A.B. Paterson College in its 23rd year of operation has been at the forefront of developing young students into educated, talented and unique individuals. With its amazing achievements and expansion over its particularly short life span, the College and its community truly embodies spirit, unity and dedication.
Students enjoy the freedom to act with integrity and purpose, whilst under the watchful and caring eye of all staff, parents and friends to help support their learning journey. The opportunities offered at the College are, without question, one of the many reasons why A.B Paterson College is a leader in academics, sporting and cultural activities on the Gold Coast.
From the Associated Private Schools (APS) sporting seasons to annual College Musicals, Public Speaking competitions, Debating, Bands, Choirs, Mathematics Forums, Zenith and Interact Clubs, the list of opportunities is extensive. Whatever fields of interest spark the attention of the students at the College; they can easily and openly partake in each and every one. With younger and older peers alongside one another to support each other’s co-curricular endeavours, the familial environment helps students feel safe, accepted and able to freely make choices as to which activities they would like to participate in.
Teaching for Understanding (TFU) is a curriculum framework unique to the College. It promotes the understanding of concepts and their application to new and real life related situations; it encourages learning through searching for new possibilities and new experiences. It is this teaching framework, with the support and guidance of teaching staff that allows students to develop enquiring minds. This system makes a clear difference to the learning and development of all students.
I am appreciative of having been given the greatest opportunity of leading such a fine College, and look forward to a year full of success, innovation and unity. 2013 will offer many great opportunities and chances to grow and to accomplish our goals. I will ensure my involvement, commitment and dedication, together with that of the senior cohort, and will always strive to demonstrate leadership and service to the College community.
