Principal's Message
Good afternoon and welcome to the end of Term 1. I would be less than truthful, if I didn’t say how much I am looking forward to a break. The staff and the students are tired and ready for a few days away from school. This is a common feature that has been recognised across the state and in the general community. The 'lag' from the pandemic and its impact of last year.
Myself and the four Assistant Principals meet with some representatives from the local police last week and they reflected that the community is also 'struggling' with the impact of Covid and the lag period. Sadly it has resulted in a significant rise in violence and criminal activity in the broader community.
So ………………… make the most of a chance to rest up during the break and we can all return refreshed and ready to go!
Yesterday we had a visit from David Howes (Deputy Secretary for School and Regional Services …….Code for one of the real big bosses in Melbourne central office) and Todd McBeth (Executive Director for Inclusion, another big boss, just not as big! 😊). Both Todd and David accompanied me on a tour of the College, plus we chatted about our strategic directions / goals and the building programs (stages 1,2,3 and 4). I was absolutely wrapped with how the College presented. We looked 'perfect'. Yippy!!!!!
Both David and Todd know the College well and both were very positive in their feedback. It is of course nice to see and hear the hard work of all staff being recognised.
Please remember that the first day of Term 1 is a student free day for staff professional development. The first hour of the day will be a presentation by myself about the next 50 day goals of the College and reflection on things travelling well, plus things to be addressed as we continuously strive for excellence in everything that we do. The remainder of the day is set aside for KLA's (Key Learning Area) to plan and work together (plus I notice that my diary is already filling up with meetings).
Parent Teacher conferences are happening tonight and Thursday. My expectation is simple really, every student and their parent/carer should meet with their child’s teachers for each subject.
Our current system allows for contact between the College and the families every five weeks on student progress. We need to continue to work together and discuss progress / concerns and problem solve all the way along the journey of 'Secondary School'.
I really was a bit disappointed to notice that one of our Year 7 classes, only has 4 PT conferences lined up with their core teacher of English and Maths.
Something to ponder: What will you have planned for your children during the break?
VCE students will certainly be using the time to reinforce the learning of Term 1 - their year (especially Year 12 ) will be over soon enough , so no time to waste. For everyone else, there are so many activities available and plenty that are free of any cost. Pump up the bike tyres and away you go.
Talk soon and enjoy the chance to relax and have some family time (my two girls are coming home so I am really looking forward to that).
Trudie Nagle
Executive Principal