Acting Assistant Principal 

The start of a new year is always an exciting time, and it has been wonderful to see our Middle School students return with energy, focus, and a readiness to learn in the first 5 weeks of term. 

Our Year 9 students have made a brilliant transition into Middle School, and they are already living up to the high expectations we set for them. They are stepping up to the challenges of Year 9 with maturity and confidence, demonstrating strong engagement in their learning and a willingness to take responsibility for their routines and behaviour. This positive start sets a strong foundation for the year ahead.

For our Year 10 students, the recent Work Experience Workshop was an important first step in preparing for their upcoming placements. This workshop is designed to position students well to secure placements aligned with their interests and future pathways, and it was pleasing to see students engaging thoughtfully with the process. Work experience is a valuable opportunity for students to explore areas of interest and begin making connections between school and the world beyond it.

A key focus for Middle School this term is ensuring that all students:

• are in correct school uniform,
• have all required learning resources each day, and
• arrive on time to every class, ready to learn.

These expectations are not optional. Consistency in these areas supports learning, reduces disruption, and helps students develop habits that will serve them well throughout their schooling.

The Year 9 Engagement Team is currently working busily on advertising and allocating student leadership positions for the year. Leadership is an important part of student voice and agency at our college, and we are excited to see students put themselves forward to contribute to the Middle School community.

We are also very excited to be planning the Year 9 Camp to Tasmania. This will be a highlight of the year and will provide students with valuable opportunities to build relationships, develop independence, and challenge themselves in new environments. More information will be shared soon—stay tuned to Compass!

I would also like to take this opportunity to remind families that students must bring their laptops to school each day, fully charged. Students are responsible for protecting their device, storing it in a locked locker, and transporting it in the free protective bag provided. The laptop remains the property of the college and is loaned to students as a tool for learning. While a laptop supports learning, it is not required for students to access the curriculum, and alternative resources are always available where needed.

Thank you to our families for your ongoing partnership and support. I look forward to a positive and productive year for all Middle School students.

Kind regards,

Mary-Anne Lilikakis

Acting Assistant Principal – Middle School