FROM THE BOARD

As the world presented us with a ‘new normal’ in 2020, we have been reminded that care, connection and support for one another is critical to ensuring we remain connected as a community during this unprecedented global pandemic. As always, I hope this edition of the Ruyton Reporter finds you and your family safe and well during these challenging times. Given the uncertainties of COVID-19, the Board has made the decision to put all capital development plans on hold as we gain greater insights into the impact of COVID-19 on our community. Subsequently, our priority at this time is to support Ruyton families in need via the provision of bursaries. The COVID-19 Bursary was established this year to support current Ruyton families facing challenges due to this new coronavirus. Our community is central to who we are, and we know we are stronger when we work together. We remain committed to continuing to identify Ruyton families struggling during this difficult time in order to support them, where possible, to continue their daughters’ education at Ruyton. Given the turbulent and uncertain times we have delayed the development of our next Strategic Plan until 2021. Importantly, this provides us with the insights and hindsight necessary to reflect on the short-term and long-term impacts of COVID-19, our learnings from these times and how all these factors will inform our future. This term we will farewell the Class of 2020, and we thank them for their strong leadership this year. In a year that has not allowed the expected events of Year 12, this cohort has led with radiance and unity. They have kept our spirits up, kept our girls connected, and created new and creative opportunities for engagement. We recognise all they have achieved and endured, and thank them for their significant contributions to our community. Since Term 1, our staff have demonstrated time and time again their professionalism and dedication. Staff have all done their best to ensure our girls have continued to receive an excellent education, despite the challenges of COVID-19 restrictions and protocols, and the unexpected transition of distance learning and working from home. We extend our sincere and heartfelt thanks to students, families, staff, volunteers, Old Girls, and our broader community for their continued support and engagement this year, during what have been challenging times for everyone. We have witnessed so many acts of kindness and support for one another, and feel fortunate to serve a community that strives to work together, even while we’re apart. Virginia McLaughlan President, The Ruyton Board