Hi everyone, my name is Maddy Jones. I am honoured to be one of this year’s Co-Heads of School alongside Charlie. I am also one of the Samuel House Prefects. Parents and family members, on behalf of the entire student body, I want to officially welcome you to Shawnigan Lake School.

 

I know the mix of deep pride, excitement, and quiet anxiety you are holding right now. Dropping your child off – whether they are stepping into Grade 8 or entering some of their final years in high school, and whether you drove down the road or flew across the world – takes a massive leap of faith. You are placing your trust in this campus, but more importantly, in the people on it. I want to speak directly to you today because four years ago, my own parents stood in the exact same spot you are in right now, feeling those exact same emotions.

 

My journey here started a bit further away – I grew up in Saskatchewan, and being half South African and half Canadian, my family’s story has always involved big transitions. We moved to Vancouver Island in 2020, and when I started at Shawnigan in 2022 as a Grade 8 student, I was terrified, completely overwhelmed, and didn't know a single soul outside of my two older brothers in Duxbury House. Having them here didn't make me feel instantly settled; mostly, it just meant I had two brothers whose main goal was keeping me humble while I frantically tried to figure out where each of my classes were.

 

Back then, I had a clear image in my mind of the confident, independent, and strong person I wanted to become, but standing in the quad, that version of myself felt miles away. I spent my first few weeks second-guessing myself and wondering if I'd ever fit in – so standing up here in front of you today is proof of the growth that happens in this place.

 

I share my story because I want to give you total peace of mind: your kids are going to be so much more than okay.

 

Shawnigan isn't a place where students are forced into a pre-made mould. It is a community that gently supports them as they build the best version of themselves. The real magic here doesn't just happen in the classroom; it happens in the authentic, lifelong connections built every single day. It happens in the Houses, sitting together in Chapel, on the volleyball court, on the soccer pitch, and in the everyday moments where students lift each other up.

 

As a Prefect, a senior leader, and someone who has walked in your children’s exact shoes, I promise you that we are here to guide them. My door in Renfrew House is always open to lend a hand, offer advice, or just be a familiar face for your kids when things feel overwhelming.

 

Thank you for trusting the School with your children and allowing them to be part of this community. We are going to look out for them, encourage them, and care for them like family. Welcome to Shawnigan!