Assistant Principal
Students
Mrs Jayarani Salerno, Assistant Principal Students
As we come to the end of what has been an extremely busy and productive term, I would like to take the opportunity to reflect on the positive start our students have made across the College.
Our Year 7 students have settled in remarkably well. They have found their way around the college, built new friendships, and demonstrated increasing confidence as they tackle the challenges of transitioning to high school. Finishing the term by managing exams and assignments is no small feat, and they should be proud of the resilience, growth and independence they have shown in such a short space of time.
I would also like to acknowledge our new students who joined us in Years 8 to 11. They have made a great start to the year and are adapting well to the St Stephen’s way. It has been pleasing to see how quickly they have engaged with learning, expectations and our strong sense of community.
We are currently finalising student feedback on the College Behaviour Matrix, and I would like to sincerely thank our students for their thoughtful input, as well as the valuable contributions from the Student Agency Team. Student voice is an important part of who we are as a College. At present, the Student Agency Team is actively voicing opinions, concerns and questions regarding the move to vertical home form in 2027. This marks the beginning of a feedback and consultation process where we will continue to work closely with students. This process will carry into Term 2, with the aim of developing and presenting solutions by the end of Term 2.
At St Stephen’s, we hold high expectations and provide high levels of support. It is essential that students consistently follow the expected behaviours at our College to ensure a safe, respectful and focused learning environment for all.
We have recently noticed a significant increase in mobile phone use during school hours. As a reminder, students must keep their mobile phones in their lockers or bags while at school and should not access their phones until they are in transit (on the bus or in the car). Consequences will be applied for breaches of this expectation, and repeat offenders will be placed on a phone plan. Please note that parents and carers can contact students via Student Services during the school day if needed.
In addition, students found occupying the same toilet cubicle can expect the College to implement appropriate consequences in line with our behaviour expectations. Students have been reminded of these expectations.
If you are unsure about the College's expectations, I encourage you to visit the College website, review your child’s Student Record Book (SRB), or contact your child’s Home Form teacher or Head of House for clarification. It is important that all members of our community are familiar with the rules and expectations of our College and have a clear understanding of the St Stephen's way. We thank the students who uphold the College's expectations every day.
As we head into the Easter break, I hope you and your family enjoy a well-earned rest, spending quality time together and taking the opportunity to recharge. We look forward to welcoming our students back next term refreshed, re-energised and ready to tackle Term 2 together.
“Strong partnerships are built on open communication. When parents, students and staff walk the journey together, our school community thrives.”
Kind regards,
Jayarani Salerno