From our Principal

Dear Parents, Students and Friends,

I hope you enjoy the latest edition of our newsletter.

Endings and New Beginnings

For Years 10 and 11 exams are almost over. The same can be said for our Year 12's with the end being a much more defining moment. The wait for the Year 12 results is on in earnest. Our thoughts and prayers remain with those who are still completing their “finals”. With our Year 10's and Year 11's, the end of exams is followed by a feedback session next week. The feedback is valuable and should be an opportunity for students to reflect on their approach to exams and on areas of improvement ahead of next year. Next year begins early as we commence our Headstart program in earnest. As the name suggests this program enables a head start on studies. Students will get their timetable, subject clashes are resolved and work commences aimed at preparing students for the year ahead.

This program has been highly successful after first being introduced in 2016. Students are engaged in their learning for longer and the learning undertaken provides a platform for the year ahead. This year our Year 12’s of 2019 head off on the annual Year 12 retreat. Students will be able to reflect on the role faith has provided in their lives. Goal setting and reflection on what each student hopes to achieve in 2019 will also be a focus. Attendance throughout the headstart program has always been high and this is due, in part, by the support of parents. We thank you in anticipation of that ongoing support throughout the 2018 Headstart program.

Year 7 Information Evening

Last week the East Campus hosted a parent night for our Year 7's of 2019 and this week it will be the West’s turn to host. This is a new initiative in 2018 and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Over 100 families were presented last week with all the necessary information to support the successful transition from primary to secondary school. It was wonderful to observe the excitement in both parents and students as they were presented with information including: accessing Schoolbox, registering with Caremonkey, computer purchasing advice, school uniform information and the importance of our house system. 

The importance of establishing and nourishing the connection between home and school, school and home can never be under-estimated. It is not a coincidence that our families who are most connected and who actively support the learning progress of their children are those that often achieve academic success. There is an open invitation for all parents to be an active presence in the educational progress of their children.

Reminders:

Monday November 19 – Student free – Headstart Planning

Tuesday November 20 – Headstart commences

Wednesday November 28 – Presentation Night

Mr Chris Black

Principal