On 13 February I had the privilege of representing the ONU at the commissioning of the new Headmaster, Michael Parker.  The ceremony was dignified and solemn but also celebrated the diversity of the College.

The Headmaster gave what I thought was an excellent speech which gave an insight into his still developing thoughts of his vision for the College.  He shared his belief that schools everywhere should be committed to supporting their students’ sense of community and real connection in the face of galloping isolationism.  He believes schools should be committed to rousing creativity and rigorous critical thinking; committed to hard work and rigour; and keep values front and centre if they are serious about making students the best versions of themselves for the future.

He encouraged the boys to make mates who will last with them throughout school and for decades as an Old Boy.  I believe the College is fortunate to have Michael as its 19th Headmaster and whilst the road ahead will have its challenges he is deserving of our support. Click Here to read his speech.

During the summer break the Executive and ONU representatives to College Council met (also attended for a period by the Headmaster) and ably facilitated by Stuart Fuller (ON 1984) to develop a business plan for the ONU.  The business plan covers the next three years and sets out the priorities the Executive feel to be important for the broader ONU membership, and which the Executive believes will set the ONU up for even greater long term success.  The plan is not to the exclusion of the great work the ONU does now, but is in addition to what we already do.

Our core focus over this three year period will be the development of a mentoring and networking program that will look to engage all of our ONU membership base irrespective of age and career progression. The Executive believes that creating an ecosystem of alumni collaboration, support and value generation will drive greater alumni engagement and give our ONU membership direct access to the ONU’s most valuable asset – its people.