Twice each year, in autumn and spring, I circulate an Update newsletter for parents, caregivers and guardians to help keep them informed about life at the College. Thank you for reading this autumn edition which I hope you will enjoy.
From my perspective, the settling-in process for the 2019 cohort of Members - first-years and returners -has gone well. Friendships are forming, participation in sport and cultural activities is high, and the routine of lectures, labs, tutorials, assessments and tests is helping to structure time and focus minds.
Over the past few weeks, the Dean of Students, George Connolly, and I have been seeing all Members for our usual beginning-of-the-semester individual chats. These have provided a lovely opportunity for us to get to know everyone a little better, answer any queries they may have, and pass on appropriate advice. We feel very privileged to work and live with such wonderful young people.
Since arrival weekend in mid-February, there have been plenty of activities at the College for Members to enjoy including five Formal Dinners, six Expert Breakfasts, a wonderful Harry Potter themed dinner on 6 April, and various community service, sport and cultural events. It has been pleasing to see the high level of involvement from Members in these activities.
Of course, keeping a balance is important to succeed academically and an essential part of this is adequate sleep (eight hours is recommended), exercise and socialising time, something I am regularly reminding all Members about (ask them about my pie chart!). It would be very helpful if you could also help me in this regard by reinforcing the “keeping a balance” message when you speak to your young person!
I wish you and your family an enjoyable Easter break.
Enjoy the various articles in this newsletter.
Best wishes
Dr Charles Tustin
