Principal's Report
Dear students, parents/carers and staff,
As we approach the end of 2024, I want to take this opportunity to thank our entire school community for your unwavering support throughout the year. It has been another year of growth, achievement, and celebration at our college, made possible by the combined efforts of students, staff, and families. Thank you to our dedicated and hard-working staff who have assisted and supported students with their learning growth but with also the emotional and social development of our students. I wish to thank our members of School Council led by our President Luke Delutis and supported by Kakoli Rawat, Nicole Zderski, Amelia Bucedi, Andrea Bellgrove, Kelly Krieg and students Chandrima and Mahdia. Thank you also to Tania-Maree Hiroa-Maiava Acting Business Manager, the work of school council members is always greatly appreciated.
This week marks the release of ATAR scores, and I want to remind our students and families that an ATAR is merely a rank—it does not define who you are or your potential. While last year saw our school achieve its best results in history, this milestone reflects the hard work and dedication of both our students and staff, along with our shared commitment to raising expectations and driving improvement.
As I shared at the recent Valedictory Dinner, success stems from qualities such as determination, commitment, resilience, and grit. These values are evident across our school community and are the foundation for the continued success of our students.
Speaking of the Valedictory Dinner, what a special night of celebration it was! With nearly 500 attendees, it was one of the largest Valedictory events in our school’s history. Thank you to all families for your support and for joining us to celebrate the achievements of our graduating class.
Last week we also welcomed our new Year 7’s for 2025. This is always an exciting day as new students are welcomed and friendships formed.
Last week, students from our college participated in the National VEX Robotics competition in Sydney. Our students displayed great teamwork and performed well and that was lots of learning from the experience. Congratulations on your efforts, we are proud of you. Thank you to Ms Russell Beveridge and Ms Christen Barnard for supporting the development of our students in the Robotics space, throughout the year.
Congratulations to our students on your commitment to the Commencement Program over the past two weeks. Your attendance and active participation have given you a valuable head start on the 2025 school year. For many of you, holiday homework and readiness tasks will further position you for success in the year ahead.
End-of-Year Activities Our Year 7–9 students have enjoyed a fantastic end-of-year activity program this week. Highlights included a highly successful trip to Gumbuya World on Monday, followed by engaging school-based activities on campus.
Last night we hosted our Annual Awards Evening, where we celebrated the outstanding achievements of our students. Awards recognised academic excellence, community engagement, and the consistent demonstration of our school values: Respect, Learning, and Working Together. Congratulations to all recipients, I enjoyed celebrating your achievements with you.
Important Dates for 2025
· General Office reopens: 24th January (9 am to 3 pm)
· Staff return: Tuesday, 28th January
· Students return:
o Year 7, 11 & 12: Wednesday, 29th January
o Years 8, 9 & 10: Thursday, 30th January
Please note: Wednesday dismissal times for Years 7–9 in 2025 will align with regular finish time of 3.00pm, ending the early finishes from previous years. Most Year 10-12 students will depart at lunchtime. Student completing a VET at school will be dismissed at 3.00pm.
On behalf of all staff at the college, I wish you and your families a safe and joyful holiday season. May your Christmas be filled with happiness, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in the new year.
Warm regards,
Wayne Haworth Principal