And to the extent that a school can achieve that balance and that synthesis then I think it makes a remarkable contribution. My last words are of course to the students. I know all of us in our lives wonder on occasions just precisely what contribution, in the more difficult moments that schooling is really making to our lives. But as we grow older and we leave school we reflect with great pride and gratitude on what you have achieved. Can I say to you boys that your teachers care for you a great deal.
Teaching is a very noble profession.
I think the teachers of Australia today carry more burdens and more responsibilities than they did several generations ago. There s a broader responsibility thrust on the shoulders of teachers now than used to be the case. And I think they do a remarkable job whether they teach here or they teach in any of the thousands of schools both government and independent throughout our community. You will when you leave the school look back I know in the main with great affection and gratitude for the education you ve received. It is a priceless endowment.