Principal Report

Term three is almost complete and what a fantastic term it has been! We have had some real highlights this term which remind us of the strength of our community and the amazing things that our students can achieve. Our school values are visible everyday in the work of our staff and students, and this is what supports us to achieve our vision of being a high performing, inclusive school where all students feel as if they can determine their own pathways and work towards their goals. 

RESPECT 

PRIDE Group Queer Photo Collage opening – showed respect for diversity and how much we value inclusion and safety at Woodmans Hill. Our LGTBQIA+ students are leaders not only at Woodmans Hill but throughout the community in this advocacy space. We are a school that leads here and creates an environment where everyone feels safe regardless of gender or sexuality. 

We proudly and respectfully welcomed many guest speakers into our school to support our young people to learn, grow and develop in a range of areas including, in their understanding of pathways and careers, to support mental health & wellbeing, to promote the importance of respectful relationships. The feedback from all guests was about the positive and respectful manner in which our students worked with them. 

Our Junior School social demonstrated that all students from 7-9, could come together for a joyous night of music, dancing and fun in a respectful manner. This was a highlight of the term for many and the effort and enthusiasm that went into the preparation of costumes and outfits on the night was superb. 

DETERMINATION

Our outstanding NAPLAN results in Years 7 & 9, many of which demonstrate results above STATE level shows the determination of the learners across our school. I don’t think that many students would say that sitting NAPLAN is a highlight of their year, but the effort demonstrated and the results which came from this told us that all students did their very best. We are proud of our students in this space. 

I think that we all showed determination to push through the cold, dark and wet days of winter and still remain a positive and supportive learning environment. Term 3 has a way of sapping the energy that the other terms don’t seem to have, and I wanted to recognize everyone for their determination to remain focused on our learning and wellbeing goals. 

EXCELLENCE

Many of our senior students have demonstrated excellence in their high aspirations and efforts towards their tertiary studies as a part of the VCE program. Going above and beyond, challenging themselves to do something that is new and different and difficult and to be successful in this is a real testament to the resilience and dedication shown. Well done! 

We had four students attend the Model UN at St Patrick’s College this term and represent the country of Mongolia. In their role as ‘ambassadors’ they were required to lobby other countries within the United Nation to achieve the goals outlined for their country. What an amazing experience! These students demonstrated excellence not only in their Humanities understanding and research skills, but also in their public speaking and confidence in presenting. 

I cannot wait to see what Term 4 holds for Woodmans Hill. The sun will (hopefully) be more present and the days are getting longer, which I know for myself, always makes me feel more optimistic. Term 4 is a term of celebration, and rites of passage. It signals the beginning of many transitions from one year level into another, or the transition into adulthood. I am certain that we will ensure that we finish the year positively. 

I hope that everyone in our WHSC community has a lovely holiday break and enjoys some time with family. Happy holidays!