The Anchor

From the Principal

School Registration  

I am delighted to inform the community that the school has been successful in the process of gaining school re-registration. Under the guidelines, schools can be granted up to five years registration. Great Southern Grammar (Pre-Kindergarten to Year Twelve) has been awarded this maximum status. This is a reflection on the School's policies, procedures, financial undertakings, curriculum delivery, governance and child protection approaches. 

The Real Inspector Hound 

On the weekend, I attended the production of The Real Inspector Hound at the Spectrum Theatre and was very impressed with the Year Ten drama students’ performance and support from the crew. The play started as a school project but with enthusiasm and commitment, it was extended into the Spectrum Theatre for us to enjoy. Under the direction of staff member, Miss Katie Gunning, and Year Ten student Tahlia Ruffell, the cast and crew lift the lid on a murder mystery in an isolated country house. During the play, we experienced many starring roles and hilarious exchanges. It was one of the highlights of the year. 

Orientation Day

The constant rain and wind did not detract from the Orientation Day last Friday. Future students were greeted with our customary GSG warm welcome. Many new students were eager, but a little anxious about joining a new school. This is to be expected given this significant change.  A good school orientation provides an opportunity for new students and parents to become familiar with the physical surroundings, begin to make new friends and provide an understanding of what is expected in the classroom.

 

Our physical surroundings are unique, with a breadth of history. I always enjoy telling the story that prior to being used as a school site, the site was used for housing the whale watching seaplanes. How times have changed. For new students, the buildings, classroom undercover areas, ovals and multipurpose areas are just a few of the physical attributes on our school site.

 

The social and emotional beginnings at a new school are important. Feeling a sense of belonging contributes to a positive start at a new school. Whilst on the other hand, friendships take time and should not be rushed. 'Be patient with developing new friends' is always emphasised when beginning at a new school. 

 

Academic success at a new school should always be compared to where a student begins. At Orientation, I stress the importance of making progress irrespective of your current academic standing. Everyone is capable of making progress, and the challenge is to make as much progress as you can within the time that has been set.

 

Throughout the Orientation Day, students lead the way at assembly, music events, social interactions and setting the tone for a wonderful day.  Thank you to the students and staff involved.

P&F Annual General Meeting

The P&F held their AGM recently and current Vice-President, Mr Darryl Hancock and current Secretary, Ms Joanne Wegner advised of their resignation from the Management Team.  Current President, Mr Jim Darmody thanked Darryl and Joanne for their valuable contribution to the P&F.  The P&F Management Committee for 2023 comprises Mr Jim Darmody (President), Mr Jason Pages (Vice-President) and Dads in Great Southern Representative, Mr John Byrne with the Secretary’s position remaining vacant.  Please do not hesitate to contact Mr Jim Darmody if you are interested in the Secretary’s position.

 

715 School Bus

Swan Transit has recently received a complaint from RAAFA Retirement village from residents, through the Transperth website, regarding GSG parents parking in the bus bay and on the median strip on Ulster Road when they drop their students off to catch the 715 school bus.

 

Could I please ask parents not to park in these places, and if there isn't room to drop their children off in a safe manner, can parents please use the bus stop at the bottom of St Joseph’s College where there is ample parking off the road.

 

Swan Transit has advised that the situation will be monitored and if the practice continues, the bus stop may need to be closed.

End of Year events

The end of year is fast approaching and so is the Christmas Service, Junior School Awards Ceremony and Years Seven to Eleven Awards Ceremony.  This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the end of year as a community and we look forward to sharing these events with you. All events are held in the Multi-Purpose Sport Complex.

 

  • Monday 5 December: Christmas Service, commencing at 10.15am
  • Tuesday 6 December: Junior School Awards Ceremony, commencing at 9.00am followed by the Junior School Christmas Concert at 11.00am
  • Wednesday 7 December: Years Seven to Eleven Awards Ceremony, commencing at 1.30pm

 

Mr Mark Sawle | Principal