Need to know

As we head into the summer break (summer, what's that??) I would like to wish all of our families a safe and festive season. If you are holidaying, have a great time! I am looking forward to spending most of January in the UK with my family and returning to an exciting 2023 school year.

During next year we will undertake our School Review, a great opportunity to reset for the next four years with targeted strategies to maximise our students' wellbeing and learning growth. Next year we will also undertake a deep curriculum review, examining what we are offering students in terms of the scope and sequence of subjects, and the time spent on each subject area.

Our new Wellbeing Hub will open early in the year, and our Dogs Connect program will start in earnest.

We will also be moving to a five period day. It is very important that students come to school having eaten something, as they will not have an opportunity to eat until recess at 10.35 am. Breakfast replenishes the supply of glucose to boost energy levels and alertness, while also providing other essential nutrients required for good health. Students need to be alert to learn well.

Our STRIVE interviews have evolved into "Report Discussions" where parents/students will have the opportunity to meet with subject teachers to discuss student reports.

I encourage you to make the time in the week or so before school resumes to ensure your child has all they need in terms of uniform. Our uniform policy may be quite flexible, but it is a policy nonetheless and students are expected to follow it. You can find the uniform policy, as well as all other relevant policies, at www.sthelena.vic.edu.au under "Information" - "A-Z Policies".

Please note: our office will close at 10.30 am on Tuesday 20th December 2022 and re-open on Friday 27th January 2023 at 8.30 am. For any urgent matters, you may email AskLeadership@sthelena.vic.edu.au as it will be checked periodically. For IT matters, please email IThelp@sthelena.vic.edu.au

I'm looking forward to welcoming all our students back in 2023, as well as 286 new Year 7 students. It is going to be an exciting year, full of opportunities.

In finishing, I would like to thank all of the St Helena staff, and my leadership team for their work this year. Post-covid schooling has been tough, with some challenges resettling our students , staffing shortages, illness and absence and the loss of two dear colleagues. The staff have shown perseverance and determination, and have never lost sight of the reason we are here - our students.

Go well everyone - see you in 2023!