Principal Address

It has been a vibrant and rewarding start to the year at Thomas Reddall High School, with our students and staff embracing every opportunity to connect, learn and grow.

We extend a very warm welcome to our Year 7 students as they begin their high school journey. The transition to high school can be both exciting and challenging, and we commend the outstanding work of Year Adviser Ms Newton, whose care and organisation have ensured our newest students have settled in confidently. We are already looking forward to the Year 7 camp in Term 2 – a long-awaited opportunity for students to build friendships and create lasting memories.

Our annual Swimming Carnival was a highlight of the term, filled with energy, friendly competition and strong school spirit. A sincere thank you to Ms Adamson for her exceptional organisation, with a clear focus on encouraging participation from all students. We wish our competitors the very best as they continue on to zone and state competitions.

Harmony Day, led by Ms Sakopo, saw a sea of orange and vibrant cultural dress across the school. Coinciding with Eid, the day provided another opportunity to celebrate the diversity that strengthens and unites us. With multicultural music filling the amphitheatre, students enjoyed coming together in a spirit of inclusion and belonging.

This term also marked the launch of our RIOT (Resilience in Our Teens) program, led by our Wellbeing and Learning Support teams. This important initiative is designed to support students in navigating anxiety and managing challenging situations. As part of this learning, students are developing an understanding that while support is always available, building resilience sometimes involves learning to manage discomfort and uncertainty. The program will continue throughout the year, with opportunities for parents to engage and support their child’s development in this space.

A standout moment this term was our first Eid Dinner, which brought our school community together in a meaningful and memorable way. This special event provided an opportunity to deepen understanding of the significance of Ramadan and to share a meal in the spirit of connection and respect. We are incredibly proud of our Year 11 Hospitality students who prepared and cooked tirelessly throughout the day. Thank you to Mrs Edwards, Mrs Feeney, Ms Sakopo and Mrs Davies for their support, and congratulations to Mrs Bain and the SASS team for bringing this wonderful event to life.

International Women’s Day was also thoughtfully recognised across the school. Organised by Ms O’Laughlin and supported by Ms Cunningham, students were invited to acknowledge a significant woman in their lives who deserves “more than thanks.” The resulting video messages were heartfelt, inspiring and a reminder of the strong, positive female role models within our community.

Our Inclusive Education students participated in a highly successful Come and Try Athletics Day, organised by Mr Heylin. This event provided a supportive environment for students to build confidence, develop skills and experience the joy of participation.

As we reflect on a busy and successful Term 1, we thank our staff, students and families for their ongoing commitment to making Thomas Reddall High School a connected, inclusive and thriving community.

We wish all those who celebrate a blessed Easter, and hope all members of our community enjoy a safe and restful school holiday break. We look forward to welcoming all students back on Wednesday 22nd April for an action-packed Term 2