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Deputy Principals Report

Year 7

Year 7 are settling into the routines of high school, finding their way to class and more recently the demands of assessments. As part of their transition to high school,we emphasise to Year 7 students the importance of seeking support from an adult when challenges or conflict arise. This approach, known as ‘not creating triangles,’ empowers students to develop vital conflict resolution skills. It also fosters a culture of respect and responsibility, ensuring that every student feels heard and valued.  

 

Early in Term 2 we have the Year 7 camp which I know students are looking forward to attending. This will be a great opportunity to forge new friendships, build positive relationships and develop their skills to embrace challenges. For any students who are not attending camp, they are required to still attend school to participate in timetabled lessons.

 

Our annual Meet the Teacher event will also be held on Monday 4th May. All parents and carers are invited to attend this afternoon to get to know the class teachers and strengthen the connection between home and school.

 

Thank you for your support in nurturing Year 7 students as they have transitioned into our school community. I look forward to continuing to get to know them.

 

Year 8

Year 8 students have made a great start to the year. They recently attended a presentation on the EHS Assessment Policy and Guidelines, helping them develop a clear understanding of assessment requirements and expectations. With the first assessment tasks now being distributed, many students are proactively planning their study routines. To support this, we encourage students to seek help from their teachers and take advantage of the Homework Club held every Thursday at 2pm in the library.

 

All Year 8 classes continue to follow the Elderslie Lesson Framework, which provides students with clear, predictable routines and explicit teaching to enhance engagement and success in their learning. This consistent approach helps students build strong learning habits and feel confident in their daily lessons.

 

Earlier this term, Year 8 students attended an online safety talk by the Police Liaison Officer. This important session focused on staying safe online and equipping students with practical knowledge to protect themselves. We encourage all students to apply these safety practices and be mindful digital citizens.

 

Throughout the term, students have been encouraged to work hard and be kind, reflecting the school’s values of being respectful, responsible and reflective learners. These principles help create a positive and supportive learning environment for all.

 

Year 9

Students are embracing their elective subjects, appreciating the greater autonomy in shaping their study patterns and the chance to explore their favourite subjects more deeply.

 

All of our Year 9 students attended the Walk the Talk Workshop on Thursday 26th March. This program is designed to equip students with knowledge about healthy, respectful relationships, understanding the meaning of consent and empower them to take action by supporting our local women's shelter Blue Wren House.

 

This term we have had even more of our Year 9 students engage in opportunities beyond the classroom, through the participation in the Creating Chances program which is a boys leadership program providing students the opportunity to grow as leaders and feel empowered as role models. Even more of our students have now completed the White Card training in the readiness to take on work experience opportunities.

 

A number of students are beginning to consider their future careers and are looking to apply for part-time jobs. A great place to start is using a website to research career information and creating a resume. Your career Journey starts here | Skillsroad this website has a lot of current information that can help. If students are wanting to complete some work experience, they need to see our Careers Advisor Ms Jeffries who can provide them with a package of information including material for parents and employers.

 

Year 10 

For our Year 10 students, this year is particularly important as it marks their Record of School Achievement (ROSA) year. We are dedicated to supporting them through this significant milestone. This year is also a pivotal time for students to start thinking about their future pathways. We encourage students to explore their interests and begin considering the opportunities that align with their aspirations. 

 

As we look forward to a range of celebrations, including the much-anticipated Year 10 formal, we encourage students to embrace this year with enthusiasm and dedication. 

 

Year 11

Year 11 students have settled well into their courses and are engaging positively with their studies. After a period of adjustments, they have finalised their course selections and successfully completed their NESA Confirmation of Entry for the Preliminary year.

 

During Weeks 8, 9, and 10, students completed their first assessment period, showing resilience and adaptability in managing the demands of senior study.

 

This is a timely reminder for students and families to follow the Assessment Guidelines provided in the booklet distributed earlier this term, which is also available on the school website. It is particularly important that students adhere to the correct procedures if they are absent or know they will miss an assessment.

 

Year 12

Year 12 have now completed their second assessment period. Students and their parents are encouraged to attend the upcoming Parent Teacher Information Evening on 4th May where there is an opportunity to meet with teachers and discuss their strengths, areas for further improvement and strategies that will help them achieve their best for the HSC. Implementing the feedback provided by their teachers will help clarify their understanding, focus their study and increase motivation to achieve success. It is important to remember that the HSC result for each subject is made up of 50 percent of their school based assessment mark and 50 percent of their examination mark. 

 

All of Year 12 recently participated in the Elevate program coordinated by Ms Grimston Eason. A highlight of the program was the Alumni talk where students selected a talk to attend from a variety of career paths. Students also attended a hands-on workshop where they reflected on their assessment results to date, developed HSC goals and an EHS Transition Plan which will be used to help support them as they determine their pathway beyond school. 

 

As we move towards Term 2, now is a key time for students with major projects to be refining their ideas and making significant progress on their body of work. Students have been reminded that they must make the most of their lesson time or private study periods to focus on completing their work, establishing study routines and completing practice HSC questions.

 

Support Unit

We warmly welcome new members to our team: Ms Mary Trinh, who has joined us as a classroom teacher, and Miss Lucy Thai, our new School Learning Support Officer (SLSO). Their enthusiasm and dedication are already making a positive impact on our students and staff alike. Our additional Multi-Categorical class is now well established, providing tailored learning opportunities that continue to support our students’ individual needs and growth.

 

We are also delighted to share the progress of our playground upgrade. The installation of artificial turf has created a safe, durable, and vibrant space for our students to enjoy. Additionally, new table settings have been added, enhancing outdoor learning and social interaction opportunities during recess and class activities.

 

Thank you to our families for your continued support. We look forward to another productive term ahead!

 

Mrs Amos - Deputy Principal, Years 7 and 10

Mrs Siope - Deputy Principal, Years 8 and 11

Ms Crossingham - Relieving Deputy Principal, Years 9 and 12

Mrs Robinson - Deputy Principal, Inclusion and Support