Deputy Principals Report
Year 7
As Term 3 comes to a close, we want to celebrate the fantastic efforts of so many of our Year 7 students! This term has been filled with growth, learning, and exciting experiences.
As we look ahead to Term 4, it is important to start preparing for final assessments by maintaining consistent study routines and staying engaged with schoolwork. I encourage all students to maintain a strong work ethic and to strive for personal excellence in their studies. At the same time, kindness and respect remain fundamental values within our school community. We remind all Year 7 students to support one another, be inclusive, and treat their peers and teachers with compassion. These qualities not only enrich their school experience but also build a positive and supportive learning environment for everyone.
Parents can support their children by encouraging regular study habits, ensuring they balance schoolwork with rest and recreation, and maintaining open communication with teachers if any concerns arise. Together, we can help our Year 7 students make the most of this exciting stage of their education.
Year 8
This term, Year 8 students have shown impressive growth in settling into lessons and maintaining a positive, focused approach to their learning. Their commitment to strengthening relationships with both classmates and teachers is evident and appreciated. Students have also embraced opportunities to participate in activities such as gala days and the science fair, which have enriched their sense of community and teamwork.
As we approach the final assessments across many subjects, students are encouraged to prepare thoroughly. Writing topic summaries, reviewing feedback from previous tasks, and keeping course notes up to date will help them make the most of this opportunity. These assessments are a valuable chance for students to showcase their knowledge and apply their learning.
We look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.
Year 9
Our Year 9 students have been busy this term with many opportunities to develop their skills beyond the classroom. A few highlights have been the Ag team representing at the Penrith Show and the Greater Sydney Cattle competition, the Boys and Girls Open Hockey Knockout competition, U15 Girls Knockout Netball competition and debating. The University of Western Sydney Fast Forward Program participants had a day on Campus honing their problem solving, critical thinking and teamwork skills and students have also started taking up opportunities to attend work experience, providing a taste of different careers. Each of these experiences help students connect classroom learning with real-world issues, boosting their engagement in learning and create meaningful connections that set them up for the future. They also provide high potential and gifted students with valuable opportunities to extend their abilities, challenge themselves, and reach their full potential. I am always proud to hear how our students represent our school with pride by showing enthusiasm, a genuine thirst for learning and respect for others.
Special shout out to Chloe Y who is currently in the USA, representing EHS in Cross Country. What an awesome experience and we wish Chloe well with her race!
It is almost time for the final assessments for Year 9 across many of their subjects and students should be encouraged to write topic summaries, review the feedback from previous assessments and also ensure that they have all of their course notes up to date. Use these final assessments as an opportunity to demonstrate what they know and how they can apply their knowledge.
Year 10
Term 3 has been a rewarding time for Year 10, with many students actively engaging in extracurricular activities that enrich their learning and strengthen our school culture. Through sports, creative arts, leadership roles, and community initiatives, they have helped create a vibrant and inclusive environment. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge their commitment and encourage all Year 10 students to continue embracing these experiences, as they contribute to both personal growth and the strength of our school as a whole.
As Year 10 moves into Term 4 and the final stages of their junior years, it will be a busy period with several key events:
Yearly Examinations: Scheduled for Weeks 3 and 4. Timetables will be provided early next term. Students must provide documentation for any absences and communicate with Head Teachers if they anticipate missing exams. Students are encouraged to strive for their personal best and complete all tasks on time.
N Warning Letters: Students who have outstanding tasks risk not meeting requirements for the Year 10 RoSA. Meetings with students and parents will be held in Week 5 to address this.
Transition Program: Starting Week 7, this four-week program allows students to experience their chosen Year 11 subjects on a new timetable, with workshops aimed at preparing them for senior studies. Students interested in apprenticeships or traineeships can use this time for work experience; please contact Ms Jeffries for more information.
End of Year Function: The Year 10 Formal will be held on Thursday, 3 December at Camden Lakeside. Invitations depend on students maintaining good attendance, behaviour, and effort. Further details will be shared early in Term 4.
We look forward to supporting Year 10 through this important final term of their junior years.
Year 11
After three busy terms, Year 11 are now in the final stages of their Preliminary Examinations and we are very pleased with their level of focus and commitment to their assessments. Students have adapted to the demands of the senior school very well and next term they begin their HSC courses. Early in Term 4, on Monday 26th October, we will be hosting an HSC Information Evening for all students and their parents. The evening will begin at 5:30pm with light refreshments and an opportunity to meet your child's teachers, followed by the information session in the hall. During the session, we will cover key HSC requirements, early university entry processes, and the expectations of being a Year 12 student. We look forward to seeing you all there.
In Year 12, students will be able to alter their pattern of study by picking up an extension course or dropping a subject. This too will be explained at the information session, and once students submit a Pattern of Study Form, an interview process will occur with Ms Siope.
Congratulations to the Year 11 CAPA students on their exceptional performances at the CAPA Evening. Their talent truly shone through, with outstanding performances and stunning artworks that impressed everyone!
Year 12
For Year 12 students, the end of their schooling journey is almost here. We had a great week of celebrations including dress up theme days, student versus teacher sporting matches, lip sync battle and the flash mob on the final whole school assembly. A huge thank you to Ms Cutajar and Ms Tagg for all their hard work and organisation of these events and also their support of Yr 12 over the years!!!
As Year 12 prepares for the upcoming HSC exams, sometimes parents look for advice on how to best support their child. The Department of Education has developed some resources that are useful. Parents - tips to support your kids going through the HSC.
With the HSC exams commencing on Tuesday 13 October, students still have some time to prepare over these coming weeks and some staff are offering holiday workshops to help students refine their skills and practice of HSC papers. A few specific tips that help over these last few weeks include:
1. Create a Study Schedule: Help your child plan their study time in advance, ensuring they cover all subjects and allocate more time to areas needing extra attention.
2. Practice Past Papers: Familiarising themselves with past exam questions is a great way to build confidence and understand the format and types of questions they may encounter.
3. Stay Active and Rested: Encourage a balance between study, physical activity, and rest. Regular breaks and sufficient sleep are key to maintaining focus and preventing burnout.
4. Seek Support: If your child is feeling overwhelmed, remind them that their teachers can provide support. They should not hesitate to reach out if they need guidance.
We wish all Year 12 students the best of luck for their final exams and thank you for your ongoing support during this crucial time in your child’s education. If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to contact the school.
Support Unit
We have had an exciting term of learning in the Support Unit. Some classes have been accessing the kitchens during LOTE lessons to cook cultural foods. Recently, Onslow class prepared and cooked a delicious chicken curry with Mrs Shaji. Some of our classes also visited the Science labs, where they explored pond water and human hair under the microscope. Thank you to Mrs Ferris for supporting this exciting lesson. I would like to thank Ethan and Lilly for representing the Support Unit at our 50th Anniversary dinner. It was wonderful to see them enjoying stories of the past and meeting some of our very first cohort of graduating students.
We have welcomed our 2027 Year 7 students into the Support Unit during our transition sessions and look forward to spending more time getting to know them in Term 4. The Support Unit will begin preparations for expansion next term, as two new demountables will be installed to accommodate two new classes. On behalf of the Support Unit team, we would like to wish our students and families an enjoyable break.
Uniform - Black school shoes
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. This includes ensuring that students are wearing black leather shoes. 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.
Yondr Pouches and Mobile Phones
The school continues to support the use of Yondr pouches, in line with our policy to keep mobile phones out of sight throughout the school day. If students breach this policy, they are required to hand their phone into the office, where it can be collected at the end of the day. Consequences for non compliance may include a verbal warning and a phone call to parent, phone suspension, or further disciplinary action if the school’s expectations are not met.
Canteen Purchases
We kindly remind parents that students must bring cash or a card to make purchases at the school canteen. Mobile phones and smart watches cannot be used as payment methods. Please ensure your child is prepared if they wish to buy items from the canteen.
Prioritising Learning
To help your child make the most of their learning time, please remind them of the following-
Bring a water bottle each day
Have the correct equipment ready, including books, pens, and any specific items needed for practical lessons.
students should use the toilets during break times rather than during lesson time to minimise disruptions.
Thank you for your support in fostering a focused and productive learning environment.
Mrs Amos - Deputy Principal Years 7 and 10
Mrs Siope and Mr Sambuco - Deputy Principal Years 8 and 11
Ms Crossingham - Rel. Deputy Principal Years 9 and 12
Mrs Robinson - Deputy Principal Inclusion and Support