Assistant Principal's Report

Year 8 Information Night
We had a very successful Year 8 Information Night August 14, focusing on entry into Stage 5. An information booklet was provided to families that covered the mandatory curriculum requirements as well as information on the various electives offered for Year 9, 2018. In the next two weeks students will receive added information on the courses and will be required to submit a course preference survey. The booklet also contains important information on the RoSA or (Record of Student Achievement). The booklet, course preference survey and powerpoint presentation on the RoSA are all available on the school’s web site.
Ms Menz also spoke about the hysterics surrounding NAPLAN as reported in the media. The media sensationalised the outcomes, sparking a fresh round of uncertainty. The College has provided valuable feedback to parents in years 8 and 9 to counter the media reports. A copy of Ms Menz presentation is also available on the web site.
Year 10 Subject Selections
We are now up to Draft 2 of the subject lines and nearing a point where almost all students are able to work toward their best 10 units for an HSC pattern of study. There is still a way to go and many students will be interviewed to ensure that they understand the implications of the pattern they have selected. Once this is finalised all students will receive a record of chosen subjects for 2018.
Year 11
As students in Year 11 are entering the final weeks of the Preliminary course, there needs to be a focus on preparation for the exams in week 9. We are currently in week 6 of term so this preparation should be well and truly under way. Students also need to have a developed study pattern outside of school.
Special Consideration
The Flu has had a significant impact on many students and families. Students can apply for Special Consideration in Years 11 and 12 if they have independent evidence that they have been adversely affected with the undertaking of an assessment task. The likely outcomes if a student has applied for Special Consideration include provision to accept the first mark (but consideration if given when calculating the final mark), an alternate task is provided (an estimate mark is given), or an extension of time is granted. A Special Consideration enables us to ensure that a student’s overall rank is in line with other tasks completed under normal circumstances.
Uniform and Lateness
I hate having to harp on the subject but uniforms is one that I won’t let go. We pride ourselves on the uniform and at this stage of winter some students are pushing the boundaries. Wearing the correct uniform demonstrates pride in oneself and the college. I ask that parents support this by ensuring students wear the correct uniform to school each day. Full winter uniform needs to be worn on those days that a student does not have sport. While we have seen an improvement in students' arrival times at school, this is an area that still requires your assistance.
Thank you for your support.
Simon Fleming
Curriculum Coordinator/ A.P