Message from the

Head of Senior School

Term 4 Week 3

This seems to be a particularly busy time of year! No doubt families are feeling this too as the beginning of November is upon us and Christmas things start to appear in shops and supermarkets. At school we are progressing with teaching and learning while also bearing in mind that exams will be held and students need time to revise. I encourage you all to be supportive of your children if they are feeling stressed – the main thing is for them to start their exam preparation early and to do small chunks regularly. And, of course, to get decent sleep…

On Friday it was wonderful to see the Years 9 – 11 Visual Arts and Textiles display. As a sewer myself, I really appreciate seeing the skills on display and am in awe of how creative the students can be. Their teachers, who support, encourage and guide the students, should also be congratulated. That same evening I attended the drinks function for the parents of outgoing Year 12 students. It was a time to reflect on the journey they have undertaken and, especially for parents whose last child is finishing this year, a time to feel a little nostalgia. These parents should feel especially proud of their connection with KWS.

I hope some of you have been able to catch the recent Invictus Games on ABC TV. You may also have seen the Duke and Duchess in Dubbo, which for some people was even more exciting than the games! However, the Invictus Games have been a fantastic lesson in what ordinary people, faced with extraordinary circumstances, can do and overcome. Prince Harry’s message of speaking up about and seeking help with mental health issues, particularly amongst men, also resonated. The games showed the very best of camaraderie and mutual support, again a valuable lesson for us all. Those of us with no injuries and with good health felt very humbled by the courage of the athletes.

I wish you all a great fortnight.

Bev West

Head of Senior School