From the Deputy
Principals
A Message from the Deputy Principals
Year 7
Year 7 students have now reached the halfway mark of their first year in high school, and it has been a remarkable journey so far! This term, they participated in an anti-bullying workshop that equipped them with the tools to foster a supportive and inclusive environment. Additionally, our Police Liaison Officer provided valuable insights into respectful relationships, both online and in person, reinforcing the importance of kindness and empathy in their interactions. Students have also engaged in a STEAM presentation, which sparked curiosity and creativity among our students.
In the playground, I’m excited to share that a basketball hoop has been added to the quad area. It has quickly become a popular spot for students to enjoy some friendly competition and stay active during their breaks.
Moving into the next term, I would like to remind all Year 7 students of the importance of being prepared for their learning. This includes bringing the necessary equipment, such as books, pens and their school diary, to class each day.
Year 8
Year 8 students recently participated in an engaging information session about the elective subjects available for Year 9 2026. They explored various faculty stalls to gather details about each subject and had their passports stamped along the way. To add excitement, one completed passport was randomly chosen for a lucky door prize: a ticket to Jamberoo Action Park! The session was well received, and all students should have submitted their elective choices online. If any student has not yet completed this process, they will need to check their email for the link and code provided to finalise selections.
Year 8 teachers have been actively incorporating literacy strategies across all subjects to enhance student literacy skills. These strategies are designed to target areas for improvement identified from the Year 7 NAPLAN results, as part of our Year 8 Data Wall initiative. Recently, students participated in a mid year test to gauge their progress and impact of the strategy implemented in Semester One. Teachers are planning to implement an additional strategy to foster further growth before the post testing which will occur toward the end of the year.
Year 9
All of our Year 9 students attended the Talk to Me Bro Presentation on Thursday 12th June. It was a highly engaging presentation that focused on understanding mental health and suicide prevention. Our Year 9 cohort were extremely engaged and sensitive to the topics discussed. The aim is to break down the stigma surrounding suicide, and educate young people on the impact suicide has on our families and communities. While the topics were quite serious, the presentation was very empowering to encourage our young people to take control of their mental health and wellbeing, checking in on each other and know their self worth.
This term we have continued to have our Year 9 students embrace opportunities beyond the classroom and represent the school with pride. This has included some very talented netballers who were a part of the Open Girls Zone Netball team and a group of keen boys have engaged in the West Tigers Classroom to Careers Program to strengthen their skills in teamwork, recognising their strengths and developing their goals for the future. A highlight of Term 2 was most definitely the School Musical and our Year 9 students were represented across all aspects of the event from lead performers, cast members of the ensemble and stage crew, with some very talented individuals taking on multiple roles. It was a pleasure to see our students shine on stage and celebrate the culmination of many hours of rehearsal. We have also started to see more Year 9 students take up Work Experience opportunities this term and it is exciting to hear about their experiences and talk about their future plans.
Year 10
This Term, the Subject Selection Evening was an important opportunity for students and their parents to come together and explore the various pathways available for their future studies. Students and Parents were able to ask questions and gain insights into how each subject can contribute to their child's academic journey and future career opportunities. This collaborative approach not only empowers students to make informed decisions about their subject selections but also strengthens the partnership between home and school in supporting their educational goals. Thank you to all who attended and participated in this important event!
As we approach the second half of the year, I am excited to remind our Year 10 students about the upcoming End of Year Function. To receive an invitation, students must uphold the Elderslie High School uniform code, demonstrate a high standard of behaviour, maintain a good attendance record and apply themselves to each course. The End of Year Function is not just a celebration of their achievements; it is an opportunity for students to come together, create lasting memories, and reflect on the friendships and experiences they’ve shared. More details regarding the event will be shared soon, including information on ticket sales, venue, and dress code.
Year 11
Year 11 has recently completed their second assessment period, with their final assessment task - the Year 11 Examination - scheduled for the last two weeks of Term 3. Students have shown remarkable adaptability in managing the increased workload associated with senior study and assessment tasks. I am extremely proud of their dedication and application to their studies.
Looking ahead, students will participate in the bstreetsmart excursion during Week 3 of the upcoming term. This excursion is a key component of the mandatory Life Ready Program and focuses on road safety education, developed by Westmead Hospital’s Trauma Department. Given that road accidents are a leading cause of death and serious injury among young people, the bstreetsmart initiative aims to educate and empower students to make safer choices on the road. The day will feature interactive experiences, real life stories from crash survivors, and engaging content, all designed to provide a profound learning experience. Previous year groups have found great value in this program, making it an impactful event.
Year 12
The last two weeks of this term have been a busy assessment period for Year 12 as they have completed their Trial HSC Examinations. While this can be a highly stressful time, it is a great opportunity for them to experience the rules and procedures replicated for upcoming HSC examinations. It is also a valuable opportunity for them to demonstrate knowledge and skills in each of their courses as a result of their hard work and consistent efforts. We encourage them to take on board all the feedback their teachers provide when they receive their results and use this to fuel their focus and study in Term 3. Many of the Year 12 cohort also have major works and performance due dates coming up in Term 3. Students are reminded to ensure they are aware of due dates and are on track to complete or perform their work. These dates are determined by NESA, not the school, so all students are reminded to adhere to the date and time each work is due.
Support Unit
This term, we are proud to highlight the remarkable accomplishments of Jack, Ethan, Lilly and Dante, who recently performed in our whole school musical. Their commitment and enthusiasm shone through, showcasing not only their acting skills but also the importance of bravery and resilience.
Additionally, some of our students participated in the Get Skilled Access filming project, where diverse learners were interviewed to develop educational resources aimed at enhancing disability education within the syllabus. Their insights will play a crucial role in shaping inclusive practices for educators, making a lasting impact on future learning environments for disability education. Thank you to Ethan, Lachlan, El, and Georgie for sharing their stories, reading scripts to camera, and engaging in conversations that showcase their talents and daily school life.
Subject Selections - Students enrolled in the Support Unit are encouraged each year to consider integration opportunities through the elective subject selection process. Students have been invited to complete the subject selection forms online. Families and students who are unsure about whether they should be completing subject selections for integration are encouraged to reach out to the classroom teachers in the Support Unit to discuss the best options and how we can support access to electives in 2026.
Parent-Teacher Interviews - All families are encouraged to make a booking for our upcoming Parent-Teacher evening. It is suggested that parents book to see the Support Unit classroom teacher to discuss individual learning goals and progress. Parents are also encouraged to make bookings with their child's specialist teachers across all the subjects their child participates in beyond the Support Unit setting.
Semester One Reports and Parent Teacher Interviews
The last few weeks have been busy as students complete Semester One assessment tasks and teachers prepare reports in anticipation of our learning conversations with you at Parent Teacher Night on Tuesday, July 29. These conversations are a vital opportunity for you to gain a deeper understanding of your child’s progress, establish communication with class teachers and together identify strategies for future success. Appointments are made through the Elderslie High School Parent Portal. If you have not created an account for the portal, please refer to the email regarding booking Parent-Teacher Night Interviews. If you require a code to access the parent portal, please contact the school office on 4658 1110 to obtain relevant details to log on. Interview bookings will close at 5pm on Wednesday, 23rd July, 2025
Student Learning Reflections
This semester we have had year groups from Year 7 to 11 reflect on their Semester 1 progress and complete Student Learning Reflections. These have been an opportunity for students to reflect on their current progress and map pathways to achieve their goals in Semester 2. Student Learning Reflections also inform parents and teachers about a student’s strengths, interests and information to better understand how the student learns. A copy of each child’s Student Learning Reflection is included with their Semester One Report.
Uniform
At our school, we uphold high expectations regarding school uniform standards. We believe that a well maintained and consistent uniform policy contributes to a positive and inclusive learning environment. We expect all students to adhere to the school’s dress code and wear the designated uniform with pride. The uniform promotes a sense of unity and equality among students. We appreciate your support in ensuring that your child follows our school’s uniform policy. By doing so, we can create a cohesive and inclusive learning environment that fosters a sense of pride, belonging, and equality among all our students. If you require any financial support, please do not hesitate to contact the school through your child’s relevant deputy principal.
Booking Appointments with Staff
With the Parent Teacher Evening being held early next term, this is a great time to meet classroom teachers and engage in conversations about your child’s progress and discussing strategies to help them to be successful learners. We hope all of you can make this key event on our school calendar.
We would like to remind parents and carers that if you need to talk with your child's classroom Teacher, Year Advisor, a Head Teacher or their Deputy Principal for a more in depth conversation you are welcome to contact the school office via phone or email. This will enable us to schedule a convenient time to discuss any concerns or questions you may have regarding your child's education and wellbeing. Unfortunately due to staff timetables, we are not always able to meet with parents who present to the office without an appointment. We value open communication and look forward to partnering with you to support your child's success.
Items Banned at School
From time to time it is necessary to remind our students that there are certain items that are NOT permitted to be brought to school for any reason. These are typically due to their impact on student health and safety. If students are found in possession of these items they would be confiscated and consequences issued in line with the Department of Education’s Behaviour Policy.
The list of times is below and is also accessed on page 6 of the student diary. We would appreciate it if parents could remind their children of these expectations and help to reinforce this aspect of our school’s Code of Behaviour.
Aerosol deodorant
Chewing gum
Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes
Lighters or matches
Laser pointers
Energy drinks
Alcohol
Liquid paper
Permanent markers
Illegal substances or weapons (or replicas)
We wish all of our families a safe winter break and look forward to welcoming you back to Term 3.
Mrs Siope - RelievinDeputy Principal, Years 7 and 10
Ms Crossingham - Relieving Deputy Principal, Years 8 and 11
Mrs Amos - Deputy Principal, Years 9 and 12
Mrs Robinson - Deputy Principal, Inclusion and Support