9-12 Community News
As we reach the end of Week 6 of the term, we are beginning to see the first signs of spring - warmer weather, longer days, swooping magpies. And, while we are still experiencing the continuing impact of the pandemic, happily, we are also beginning to see the return of some of the events that have always been a part of our College calendar.
It was exciting to see our F-6 students compete in the House and Waranga District Athletics sports this week, with a large number of Years 9-11 students acting as helpers, and role models, assisting in the running of events. Yesterday, the Years 9-12 netball teams competed and enjoyed the success and fun that comes from the opportunity to compete against other district schools. And today, Years 7-12 students are taking inspiration from the exploits of our Olympians, attempting to run, jump and throw faster, higher and stronger (further), as they compete for their House in the Years 7-12 Athletics Carnival. Well done to all for your participation and sportsmanship in the way in which you have competed this week.
Students across the College have been very active in supporting the St Vincent de Paul Sock it to the Can campaign. Reflective of these efforts are those of our Year 12 cohort, who gathered over 850 cans, socks, and non-perishable food items to donate to those in need. Thank you to all the students and families who contributed to this year's campaign.
In TA sessions, we are continuing to deliver the curriculum from The Resilience Project, which is helping students to develop their understanding of themselves, emotional literacy and the ways in which mindful thinking and acting can help them navigate the challenges of life. Our current situation of having to deal with the impact of Covid-19 is definitely placing stress upon all of us - students, teachers and families. Hugh van Cuylenberg, the founder of The Resilience Project was recently featured on The Project. His comments and advice (in the link below) might be worth reflecting upon.
The Resilience Project on "The Project"
As the year progresses, there are a number of ‘landmarks’ that we have ticked off or continue to work towards.
Years 9 and 10 students have submitted their 2022 Expression of Interest forms, which allows the College to determine which VCE subjects students may wish to pursue. Based on these responses, the 2022 VCE Year 11 subject blockings and Year 10 VCE Fast Track options are being finalised, with the final subjects and blockings being made available to students in the coming weeks. Once these offerings are finalised, Year 10 students will meet with our Careers Practitioner, Mrs Cath Anderson, to select their 2022 VCE/VCAL/VET programs.
Once these processes have been completed, booklists will be made available to students and families, with opportunities for the purchase/sale of second hand books to be announced in the near future.
Selection of 2022 Years 9 & 10 Elective subjects will take place in Term 4.
Another event that signifies the passage of time is the organisation of the Year 12 jumper, with the current Year 11s eagerly anticipating this rite of passage. Details of that will be shared with the students very soon.
VCAA has yet to announce the rescheduled GAT date, but we will ensure that this information is passed on to students and families as soon as it is available.
VCE and VCAL students continue with their coursework and assessments and many are looking ahead to the end of their secondary studies.
All Year 12 students are meeting with Cath Anderson to plan the next stages of their lives. For those who are considering tertiary study, we encourage them to investigate the many tertiary institutions that are available. While traditional ‘Open Days’ are currently not available, we have provided links to the ‘Virtual Open days’ that many institutions are offering on the College VCE/VCAL/VET Noticeboard website. The link to this site and page is: https://sites.google.com/sakyabram.vic.edu.au/vcevcal-updates-2020/2021-university-virtual-open-days
All Year 12 students, and parents/caregivers, are encouraged to investigate the many options available to pursue.
Students are reminded that, from next week, Week 7, in line with the College’s Sun Smart policy, hats will once again be expected to be worn when students are outside during recess and lunch times and during outdoor class activities. Students and families are also reminded that the move to the new College uniform will take place from the beginning of Term 4. We have been in a transition phase, from the old to the new uniform over the last few terms, but, from the beginning of Term 4, all students should be in the new uniform, from head to toe. Details of the College Uniform Guide and Policy can be found on SIMON/PAM and the College website.
Finally, students and families are reminded that students who need to leave school at any time other than the end of the school day, can only do so with the support of a written note of explanation from a parent/caregiver. Ideally, this would be supported by a phone conversation or email to our Office to explain the request for an early departure. Students must also ensure that they sign out via the Office, providing the explanatory note to the Office staff.
Michelle Downie Brad Downie
9-12 Community Leader 9-12 Community Leader
Wellbeing & Community Student Learning and Professional Practice