FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Farewell Class of 2024

Our class of 2024 had their final exams and then passed through the school gate for the last time.  Camps, activities, tours, excursions, and everything they have engaged with has always been in the spirit of friendship and inclusivity. They have been a wonderful group of caring young people whom the teachers have enjoyed teaching over the years.

I want to wish each and every one of them all the very best in their chosen pathways and look forward to seeing them for a final time at the Valedictory Dinner.

Progress Reports

Progress reports provide an update on how your child is progressing in relation to their effort, behaviour and organisation. There are 3 cycles every semester which includes an overall Grade Point Average (GPA). 

Following the release of the reports, a reflection and goal setting time is allocated, we have been very pleased with how students have engaged with the reports and often set the goal of improving their GPA. 

We are considering the addition of attendance to the report and therefore the GPA in 2025, more information will be provided in the new year. 

Predictability, Consistency and Routines

Students perform better in an environment of predictability and consistency. This can be difficult to achieve in a secondary school setting with the constant change of classes. To assist with this we have a number of processes and strategies in place. 

Instructional Model 

A revised Instructional Model has been developed and workshopped to ensure it is effective in the classroom.  The model includes elements such as: explicit instruction, independent practice, and reflection. 

Instructional models provide a teaching and learning framework and ensure consistency of instruction across the school.

Entry and Exit Routines 

Since the beginning of this year, classes have been practicing entry and exit routines that assist in promoting calm classrooms. 

Students line up outside their classroom doors and enter after the teacher directs them to do so. They stand behind their chairs to enable the room to be calm, allowing any furniture to be moved and the teacher to check that they have their books and equipment before taking their seats. 

At the end of the period, the students stand behind their chairs while the teacher checks the room and provides any last-minute instructions, and then they are dismissed.

Year 7 Orientation Day

On Tuesday December 10, the new group of Year 7 students will be here for the statewide Orientation Day to begin their secondary school journey. We look forward to them joining us onsite to compliment the online session that occurred with many of the schools a couple of weeks ago.

School Saver Bonus

The new School Saver Bonus of $400 is available to all families with school-aged children. 

We have included information in this newsletter to enable you to access it to assist with books and uniforms in 2025. Please ensure you carefully read the information and access the parent portal when possible. 

Recent Camps and Tours

We have recently had camps and tours across many year levels that have been enjoyed by all. I have always been incredibly proud of the way in which our students engage with the activities on offer and their behaviour while out representing LHS. 

In the past, I have received emails from strangers who have seen our students and the way they interact with each other and staff. One such email recently came from one of the coach drivers who drove our Year 9 students around Tasmania. It is something that is not unusual and certainly worth sharing with the school community.

I write to let the school management know that I was one of the coach drivers in your group B that visited Tasmania last week.  This is the second group of your school I have had the privilege of showing around our state.

The reason for the email is to commend your staff  and school leadership on the conduct and manners of last years but more especially this year's group.

They were well mannered to myself and to the public and were extremely clean on the coach a pleasure to mix with.

To your staff I can only say thanks and it was great to see young adults managed and mentored in such a professional way.

As a tour driver I see many different groups but look forward to your students traveling again. Thanks for your time.

Well done caring and educating young minds from a grandfather who cares about our youth.

Doug 

I’m also aware that the other coach driver is retired but will resume work to be part of our tour!

Congratulations to the Year 9 students and staff and thank you for representing LHS in such a positive and respectful manner.

Wendy Powson

Principal