Message from School Council President

This term has been huge - 10 weeks of school (the longest many of our kids have had the opportunity for face to face learning since 2019), Swim Carnival, Lapathon, Moonlight Cinema, Barefoot Bowls, Cross Country, Easter Raffle, STOMP for the younger grades, a working bee, EMR swimming comps, super secret farewell surprises for Glenys and I am sure there’s more!!  

Thank you to all of the staff at HWPS for an intense but fruitful first term.  The last 10 weeks brought new obstacles and you all rose to the challenge and gave it everything.  Your efforts have not gone unrecognised. 

Thank you also to all our community who have kept up the pace - buying the tickets, finding the clothes in house colours, packing the bags, lunch boxes and snacks, donating goods and turning up to cheer the kids on.  A big thanks to our Class Reps for all the reminders.

Sadly, during the term, we received the news that Glenys would be retiring from her Principal role.

Today marks the final day for Glenys at HWPS after more than 11 years.  So much has changed over that time - the school population has almost doubled in size, several new buildings have been added, new basketball/netball grounds built, the removal of Honour Ave from the middle of the school, a refurbished library, two new play equipment areas and the conversation pit (it’s almost finished - we promise!!). 

Academically the results of the children attending HWPS have improved markedly, student engagement is way ahead of where it used to be and the school now offers several specialist subjects.  The financial position of the school, its ability to attract grants and fundraise to complete projects, is also streets ahead of where it used to be 11 years ago.  

It takes a great leader to steer a ship through the course of change and revitalisation.

In my experience at the school over the last 6 years, Glenys has demonstrated great vision and absolute determination to create an environment where our children have the ability to feel connected, be curious and demonstrate confidence while they achieve excellence.  Every decision she has made has had the children at heart.  And that heart is bigger than we can ever really imagine.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Glenys and to wish her all the best as she takes a step back from work.  

On Tuesday 26th April, when we return to the school gates, we will have a new smiling face to greet our children.  Nerida Smith will join us in the role of Principal in Term 2.  Coming to us from Lloyd Street Primary School, Nerida brings to the school vast experience in a very similar setting and shares the aspirations we have of what this school and community can evolve into next.   I am very excited for the next chapter for HWPS.

Wishing everyone in our community a restful break. 

Gabbi Lorenzetti

School Council President