From the Principal

Primary School Events

As Principal, it amazed me that scripted assemblies can go off track.  This week was one of those times, when I was presented with a Santa suit at the Awards Assembly.  Something that I was not prepared for, anyway the joy of being part of the student celebrations and dancing overrode the scripted assembly.  Well done to all of the performers at the Christmas Concert.  The Award Ceremony provided the opportunity to celebrate and congratulate the award winners providing recognition as an important part of the academic year.

A photo gallery of End of Year events will be made available, with further details to be provided in the Deputy Principal's back to school letter in January.

Primary School 2024

I am excited to announce that we will be introducing two additional classes to our Primary School, in Year Four and Pre-Kindergarten.

This decision stems from strong enrolment interest from the community.  At this stage, we will be welcoming approximately 30 new families in Years One to Six with ten new students commencing in Year Four and ten in Year Six.  At present, we are continuing to accept late enrolments and class information will be available when finalised towards the end of next week.  These additional enrolments are a reflection of the wonderful work being undertaken by the Primary School staff and the opportunities GSG students have.  

For 2024 I am delighted to announce a new Primary School staffing leadership structure.  This new structure has been set up to provide clear direction for parents, and students in different sections of the Primary School.  For next year, Mrs Leah Field will be the Head of Primary.  The School has set out to provide a supporting structure under Mrs Field's leadership to connect with families and provide clearer responsibilities for those in Primary School leadership.   Two new positions have been recently filled, Mrs Ranger, Assistant Head of Primary – ECC and Ms Nichols, Assistant Head of Primary - Years Three to Six.  Both Mrs Ranger and Ms Nichols will maintain their presence as classroom teachers.  Ms Youens will continue as the Learning Support Coordinator – Primary.  These four roles will now form the Executive leadership team of the Primary School and will be supported by incoming Principal, Mr Mat Irving and Deputy Principal, Mrs Emma Franklin.    

Secondary School Awards Ceremony

The Secondary School Awards Ceremony was held this week to celebrate the 2023 academic year. It was a wonderful opportunity to recognise student achievement, listen to two impressive musical performances and publically acknowledge and farewell some retiring staff members. Thank you also to the many families and students who took the time to wish me well in my own retirement.

Signing Off

It is a bittersweet farewell, with this being my last official Anchor article as Principal of this extraordinary school; it has been an honour and privilege to serve our remarkable students, dedicated staff and supportive community.

Christmas Blessing

May the spirit of Christmas fill your souls with joy and warmth, and you find delight in simple pleasures and cherish time spent with loved ones.  As you gather with family and friends, may you be surrounded by love, peace, and the warmth of genuine connections. 

Wishing you and your families a blessed and Merry Christmas, filled with love, joy and the company of those who matter most.  I wish you all the best throughout the coming years.  

Mr Mark Sawle | Principal