Assistant Principal's Report

Student focus groups

First Student Focus Group was held today.  The focus question was on Wellbeing programs here at schools and what areas that they wished to be continued and areas that are not being addressed.  The feedback is to be taken back to leadership groups within the college.  The groups are aimed at increasing student voice and agency in the college.

Energy drinks

The energy drink market has grown rapidly in the past 10 years. Energy drinks are increasing at double the rate of all carbonated drink sales and they now outstrip the annual sales of cola.

Energy drinks are primarily targeted at teenagers and young adults, but these drinks often contain more caffeine than the safe daily dose recommended for adults.  Energy drinks typically contain high levels of caffeine along with a combination of other supposed energy-boosting ingredients like guarana, taurine and sugar with various other amino acids thrown into the mix.

Caffeine is a potent stimulant, particularly at high doses. “Caffeine toxicity” can be seen even in doses less than 1g but doses of 5-10g are considered potentially lethal. At these higher doses numerous side effects can occur including increased heart rate, palpitations, increased blood pressure, improved exercise endurance, anxiety, insomnia, vomiting, nervousness and irritability.

Due to this evidence, we are asking that these do not come to the school environment.  Students will have their beverages taken from them and they can collect them at the end of the day.  If the confiscated drink is open, it will be disposed of, as the school cannot ensure that the drink has been kept free from contamination.     

Photo competition

Students have been asked to submit images that represent the school or the area that they learn and play.  The images will be used for postcards to be sent home when students receive positive chronicles from staff.  Images are due at the end of the term.  Looking forward to seeing the photos they send in.