From the Headmaster | June 2026

In recent months, our School community has experienced significant loss. We have mourned the passing of a member of our parent community and two young old scholars from the classes of 2020 and 2012.

Moments such as these remind us of the importance of belonging. The St Peter's College community extends well beyond our school gates and graduation ceremonies. It is a lifelong network of support, friendship and shared experience, strengthened in times of celebration and sustained in times of sorrow.

I have been reminded of this repeatedly in recent weeks through the privilege of spending time with old scholars and their partners at Chapter events across Australia and abroad. From Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, to Shanghai, Singapore and London, each gathering reinforced the enduring value of the relationships formed through the St Peter's College community.

Photo: Inaugural China Chapter Dinner in Shanghai

To see old scholars from across generations sharing stories, reconnecting over their common experiences and offering support to one another is a powerful reminder of the ties that bind our community. I was particularly encouraged by the thoughtful discussions and willingness of attendees to contribute ideas and perspectives. Their engagement reflected the strength of our global network and its ongoing commitment to remaining connected and supporting one another.

I extend my sincere thanks to the convenors, the old scholars who delivered the Toast to the School, and all who attended our Chapter events.

Many of the themes explored during these conversations - connection, belonging and giving back - sit at the heart of our expanding Back to Saints program, and I hope to welcome many of you back to the School this November.

From Wednesday 4 November to Sunday 8 November 2026, Back to Saints will bring together old scholars to reconnect with old friends, revisit cherished memories and experience how the School has evolved over the years. The curated program includes a Senior School Muster, School in Action Tours, Milestone Reunions and a range of social, cultural and community gatherings.

New to the 2026 program is the Thought Leaders Forum, celebrating old scholars whose work is helping shape industries, communities and ideas around the world. Join Rhodes Scholar, former School Captain and Global Chief Innovation Officer at Baker McKenzie, Ben Allgrove (W&A 1995), as he explores the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence and how it is shaping our future.

Back to Saints is more than a series of events; it is a celebration of connection. It honours generations of old scholars who have lived the School's values beyond these walls and fields, and who continue to gather, mentor and give back to the community that helped shape them. Along with our staff and students, I very much look forward to welcoming you back to Saints this November. Click here to learn more.

This spirit of giving back is also reflected in this year's Annual Giving Appeal, which supports the renewal of Old School House. For generations of old scholars, this building has been at the heart of School life with its corridors, classrooms and clock tower holding memories of friendship, learning and shared experience. Thanks to the generosity of our community, restoration work is already underway on the RT Potter Room, and we are now seeking support for the next stage of this important project. Thank you to all who have contributed. If you have not yet had the opportunity to participate, we warmly invite you to support the appeal before 30 June.

The strength of the old scholar community has always been evident in its willingness to give back through time, wisdom and service. In that spirit, we invite old scholars to participate in our Year 11 Ethics Workshops on Tuesday 25 August. Following a keynote address by Senator Andrew McLachlan CSC, Deputy Chair of the Council of Governors, workshops led by old scholars from a diverse range of professions will explore the ethical challenges encountered in different industries, helping students connect classroom learning with future career pathways. If you are interested in participating, please contact Mr Nicholas Browne, Head of Faculty - Theology and Philosophy, at nbrowne@stpeters.sa.edu.au.

Thank you for your continued support of our School and for the many ways in which you honour its past, contribute to its present and help shape its future.

Tim Browning
Headmaster