From the Principal's Desk

The full range of Pittwater House opportunity is increasingly in play as we complete a month of schooling. Parent Information Evenings across the school have provided families with the dual sharing of school-wide information, and time with class and form teachers to hear in a more detailed way, topics to be covered in our pastoral provision, and shape of the year. We hope these evenings have been beneficial and now allow you to put faces to names, whilst also getting to know families from your child’s class.

Whilst the Year 11 students undertook a 2-day retreat, several Alumni presented their tips for HSC success. It is always a great joy to engage with past students, and for me, meeting up with Lachie and Sophie was a chance to hear of their recent happenings… Lachie is studying Applied Finance at Macquarie Uni and working full time in Yacht Sales for Short Marine at Spit Bridge, Mosman and  Sophie completed her degree in media and communications with journalism at UTS in 2020. She is a Social Media Co-ordinator at Hungry Jacks. I know that she does fun things like produce TikTok’s with celebrities! Their enthusiasm, and appreciation of their Pittwater House days, continues to shine through.

Student leaders too are well into their engagement with the new cohorts. As I wandered the Campus last week, I came across House Captains preparing their House group with long treasured Chants for the Swimming Carnivals… and the selling of chocolates for Valentine’s Day… such a sense of engagement, and fun was evident.  It is this sense of belonging so early in the year, that provides the newest members of our community with important milestones conquered.

Grammar Swimming Carnival:

College Swimming Carnival:

Years 3-6 Swimming Carnival:

Sporting competitions and performance groups in Music and Dance, together with our Cadet unit, are also up and running. If we measure success by the rate of take-up, 2024 is set to be a stellar year. Record sign-ups across various sports and numbers attending music and dance rehearsals, and the Cadet parade, are a reflection of the breadth of offering and the sense of team and community our co-curricular program provides. In Junior School too, activities at lunchtime and after school are thriving. 

Not only has touch got off to a flying start with excellent wins for each team, but our three swimming carnivals this week have been happy days and more opportunity for House spirit to grow.

Giving back, respect, community… all words we hear and support, daily. Therefore, it was pleasing that our Community Prefect, Millie, spoke of the local Mental Health charity, Head Above Water, in our Assembly last week. Followed up by a message on the School App from our Head Prefects this week, to encourage widespread Pittwater House participation next weekend… Sunday 3 March at the Collaroy Rock pool, for the annual 24-hour swimathon. Pittwater House has been associated with this Northern Beaches response to the high rate of suicide and the mental health challenges faced by many in the community, from its inception in 2019. I encourage you all to consider being a part of this great community event, to swim as part of the Pittwater House team, and ensure a great response to further fund raising toward mental fitness and suicide prevention programs across the Northern Beaches and throughout Australia. To date, there have been over 450 programs and workshops provided, including several at Pittwater House where making meaningful connections and striving for a healthier and more meaningful life have been key. 

With Year 7 going to camp next week, this additional bonding activity is sure to set the students up for a great year of learning and attachment to their School. I know this will be both exciting and challenging for some students who may not have had the opportunity to go on a camp of this length, or range, before. Remember how important these times are; parents I ask that you reflect back to your school camps, and the times over the years when you both remember, and share, moments and activities long in the past. 

It is now my pleasure to introduce a group of our new Staff, to you. Over the coming editions of HouseNews, these new members of our community will share some of their journey, their experience of Pittwater House, to date, and some insight to their life beyond our School. As you meet these folk, please make them welcome.

With every good wish for the coming weeks.

Mr Glenn Stephenson, Head of Junior School

Throughout my educational career, I have taught and led in various systems and school contexts, most recently as the Director of Junior School at St Patrick’s College, Strathfield. However, none of these roles can compare to the beginning of my time as a proud member of the Pittwater House community!

 

During the recent holiday period, I moved to the beautiful Northern Beaches with my wife and three small children. Other than living in the heart of Manly Sea Eagles’ territory (go Storm!), I am thoroughly enjoying getting to explore the area and create a new list of favourite local venues to eat at!

 

Pittwater House is quickly becoming an extension of my family and I consider myself extremely lucky to work each day with a truly special group of Junior School students, staff and parents as we all strive to live the HEROIC Core Values and ‘always hardworking’ motto of this incredible school.

Ms Leah Crowley, Co-ordinator of Diverse Learning

My name is Leah Crowley. I have recently, had the pleasure of experiencing the warm welcome of the TPHS community—a caring and inclusive school environment that celebrates diversity and fosters a sense of belonging among students and staff alike. The collaborative spirit and kindness exhibited by the staff are truly commendable, creating a nurturing environment where everyone feels supported and valued.

 

My journey in education has been enriched by years of postgraduate study, where I've delved deep into the nuances of supporting students who possess exceptional talents alongside learning challenges. It's a field that not only fascinates me but also drives me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these remarkable individuals.

 

Aside from my professional pursuits, I find immense joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as indulging in a perfectly brewed cup of coffee or experimenting with new flavous to create batches of homemade ice cream. These moments of culinary delight serve as a welcome respite from the rigors of academia and parenting.

 

Speaking of parenting, I am incredibly proud of my three children, who embody kindness, consideration, and a zest for life. They inspire me daily with their empathy and resilience, reminding me of the importance of nurturing not only their minds but also their hearts.

 

In addition to my human family, I mustn't forget to mention my two mischievous black schnauzers, who bring laughter and chaos into our home with their playful antics. Despite their naughtiness, they are cherished members of our family and are undoubtedly spoiled rotten.

 

In essence, I am a lifelong learner, a devoted parent, and an advocate for inclusive education. 

Mr Gary Macaulay, Mathematics Faculty and Co-ordinator of Stage 5 Grammar

My name is Gary Macaulay and I have joined Pittwater House as a Teacher of Mathematics and as the Acting Stage 5 Co-ordinator. I recently returned to Sydney after having spent 3 years teaching at The North London Collegiate School, Singapore. Prior to that I was here at Pittwater House for 6 years, so I know the School and the area pretty well. Having said that, the School has made great forward strides in terms of its facilities and pedagogy, so I have a lot to learn. I love the Northern Beaches and am looking forward to spending time in the water, either freediving, spearfishing or surfing (all pretty badly) although I do usually manage to knock up some fish tacos with my catch!

Miss Megan Winter, Science Faculty

Growing up in London and then Kellyville after my family emigrated to Australia, I have been lucky enough to make the Northern Beaches my home. I have always had a connection with the coast, having completed a science degree and majoring in conservation and then working with sea turtles prior to becoming a science teacher. I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. For the previous 8 years I have taught at Pittwater High School, and after moving to Pittwater House, I have been made to feel so welcome and supported by the staff, students, and parents in the school community. During my free time, you can find me walking at different beaches, with friends and family, or at the gym. I often have an iced latte in hand, and refuse to be parted with these, even throughout winter!