At a time in which we are all grappling with the understanding of a future with omnipresent AI, the creative arts, performing arts, community engagement and group sport and recreation activities are more important than ever because they develop the human capabilities that technology cannot replace. 

The extraordinary breadth of co-curricular extension opportunities for Haileybury students are showcased in this impressive edition of the Haileyburian. 

A favourite for me has been the development of our Young Archie portrait competition.  I have always loved the Archibald Prize, generally considered Australia’s most prestigious portrait prize, and one of its most prestigious art prizes overall. A few years ago, the Art Gallery of NSW, who have run the competition since 1921, opened a competition for young artists. Haileybury has embraced this and the Haileybury Young Archie is our in-house competition from which the winners are submitted for entry into the official competition. 

It was a joy to receive 64 entries from across the School this year. The portraits themselves were a wonderful mix of family, friends and self-portraits. Of equal interest were the descriptions submitted by the artists which further highlighted the nature of the very human relationship between the artist and subject. We look forward to expanding this competition even further next year. 

The rest of The Haileyburian is filled with human stories; stories that tell of people, passion, commitment and relationships that serve to link the Haileybury community. Please enjoy reading them.