When Jess walked her daughter through the College gates for her first day of school, it marked more than a new beginning, it was a continuation of a family legacy. Jess, who graduated in 2011, is the proud parent of the College’s very first alumni child now beginning her own journey in Year One.

For Jess, the decision to return wasn’t just sentimental, it was deeply intentional.

“For me, St Andrew’s always felt like an incredibly supportive, close-knit community where everyone was seen and valued,” Jess reflects.

“That same spirit is still alive today, and it’s one of the main reasons I felt confident enrolling my daughter.”

Now a parent, Jess sees St Andrew’s not just through the lens of her own experiences, but through the possibilities it offers her child. What stood out to her then still matters today—the sense of belonging, the strong values, and the genuine care for each student.

While the College has evolved over the years, Jess recognises that the heart of St Andrew’s remains unchanged. The values she remembers as a student are the same ones that shaped her decision as a parent.

“These values have always stood out to me: kindness, respect, and a strong sense of community. I remember feeling genuinely supported as a student, not just academically, but personally too,” she said

“I knew that my daughter would be surrounded by people who care and a culture that encourages her to be kind, confident, respectful and true to herself.”

Walking back through the campus, Jess was excited to reminisce with her daughter, pointing out her old lunchtime spots and favourite hangouts, blending memories of the past with hopes for the future.

Of course, there have been big changes too, Jess admired the modern facilities such as the Aquatic Centre, the Learning Hub and the upcoming and under construction Performing Arts Centre.

“When I was a student, the college was really just starting to grow. Now, with these incredible facilities, I’m so excited for my daughter and everything she’ll get to experience!”

Now working in a dynamic role helping to run a horse float company, Jess credits her broad skill set and flexible mindset to the foundation she received at St Andrew’s.

“I haven’t followed a straight-line career. I’ve tried my hand at all sorts of things…what’s special about St Andrew’s is that it embraces both traditional and non-traditional pathways. Whether you’re aiming for university or carving out your own direction, the College gives you the foundation and support to pursue what’s right for you.”

Looking ahead, Jess is filled with hope and excitement for her daughter.

“St Andrew’s blends incredible facilities with a genuinely supportive, down-to-earth community. It’s not just about academics or sport- it's freedom to try, to fail safely, and to grow into yourself,” she said.

As one generation hands the torch to the next, the college remains a place where students grow beyond academics - they become part of a proud legacy, a close-knit community, and a future full of opportunity.