From the Deputy Principal

At the halfway mark of the term, it is an appropriate time to consider if we are maximising all the opportunities that come our way. The choices we make shape our experiences and growth.  

Careers Expo

A fortnight ago, the Year 9, 10, 11 and 12 students had the opportunity to attend the Southern Catholic College Careers Expo. The students are to be applauded for their enthusiasm and engagement with experts and professionals across a diverse array of businesses and educational pathways.   

Examinations

In the coming weeks the Year 10, 11 and 12 examinations are scheduled. Exam stress is inevitable. There are many strategies that the students can adopt for their mental and physical health at this time:

• Time management: Prioritise tasks and manage your time effectively to reduce stress. Break down your work into manageable chunks and take regular breaks.
• Healthy habits: Choose nutritious foods, regular exercise and sufficient sleep. These habits enhance your energy levels and overall health.
• Device free time: Allocate time each day to unplug from devices. This helps reduce eye strain, improve sleep quality and allows for more meaningful face to face interactions.

Great resources, including a series of fact sheets covering the topics below, can be accessed via School TV on the College website or via this link.

College expectations

Every day students are required to make decisions, knowing that daily choices in behaviour significantly impact the school environment and their personal development. Decisions around how to effectively engage in class, wearing the correct uniform and adhering to mobile phone requirementsare obvious. Positive choices lead to a supportive and nurturing environment, while negative actions can harm relationships and your own reputation. All students and staff should feel safe at school. 

Ultimately, if we treat everyone with respect and kindness, a positive and inclusive school culture is fostered. Therefore, racist language, including that used as casual slang in a friendship group, is racist and unacceptable. Students are encouraged to speak up against racism and call it out for what it is. 

Students have a responsibility to attend all classes on time including Pastoral Care in the Senior School. It is a student’s responsibility to be on time and ready to learn. Furthermore, students are expected to be organised for the day and know where they need to be. Bells and music remind us of where we need to be throughout the day.  Punctuality is an important practice that applies not only at school but to many aspects of life and we certainly expect students to be on time for each lesson.

In summary, if we take responsibility for our actions and do the right thing, a climate of trust is created. If we adopt a positive mindset, challenges can be faced and personal growth forthcoming.