Deputy Principal Reports
Celebrating Success: Reward Excursions Across the School
It’s hard to believe, but our Year 7 students are now halfway through their first year of high school—and what a journey it has been so far! Over the past two terms, we have seen remarkable growth in both their confidence and engagement with high school life.
Transitioning from primary school to high school can be challenging, but our Year 7s have embraced the change with enthusiasm and resilience. From navigating new routines and classrooms to building friendships and tackling more independent learning, they have approached each challenge with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
As we move into Term 3, Year 11 students are about to embark on the final stage of their Preliminary course. This important term will include final assessments and Yearly Exams before they begin their HSC courses in Term 4. It is essential that all Year 11 students stay up to date with their classwork, complete assessments on time, and maintain excellent attendance. Establishing strong study habits now will set them up for success as they transition into their final year of schooling.
This term, selected Year 7 students who have consistently demonstrated outstanding behaviour, effort, and attitude were rewarded with a fun-filled excursion to Kingpin Bowling. The day was a great opportunity for students to relax, bond, and celebrate their positive contributions to the school community.
They weren’t the only ones enjoying a special day out—reward excursions also took place for other year groups. Year 9 students enjoyed a trip to Event Cinemas, where they were treated to a movie experience in recognition of their hard work and positive behaviour. Meanwhile, our Year 11 students headed to Fastlane Karting for a high-speed celebration of their effort and commitment this term.
A huge congratulations to all students who participated in the reward excursions—you’ve earned it! We look forward to seeing continued effort, growth, and success across all year groups as we move into the second half of the school year.
Mrs L McGarry
Deputy Principal Year 7, 9 and 11
Term 2 has been a steady and positive journey for our students, marked by involvement, reflection, and meaningful achievement. The term began with our ANZAC Ceremony—an important moment of remembrance where students demonstrated quiet respect, maturity, and care. Their participation helped the whole school community pause and reflect on the significance of service and sacrifice.
Throughout Reconciliation Week, students embraced opportunities to engage in thoughtful conversations and activities that deepened our understanding of First Nations cultures. From collaborative art projects to class discussions, the spirit of respect and reconciliation was present in many corners of the school.
Engagement in school programs continued to grow, with a wide variety of performances and creative projects showcasing students’ talents and confidence. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, students demonstrated pride and commitment to their school community.
Attendance and uniform compliance also showed steady improvement, a reflection of the sense of connection and belonging many students feel. These small but important signs of engagement can make a big difference to the learning experience.
Half-yearly reports reflected consistent effort and progress across the board, with many students achieving strong academic outcomes and demonstrating a positive attitude toward their learning. Teachers and families alike have supported students to work toward their individual goals.
As we look toward Term 3, there’s a quiet sense of excitement. With new programs, learning opportunities, and support in place, we’re confident students will continue to grow and thrive in the months ahead. It’s shaping up to be another productive and meaningful term.
Mrs J Bullock
Deputy Principal Year 8, 10 and 12
Term 2 has been a dynamic and rewarding time for students across all year levels. With a wide range of engaging experiences both in and out of the classroom, students have continued to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. It’s been inspiring to see them confidently progressing on their individual learning journeys.
A highlight this semester has been the launch of our new Engagement Hub, created in the space formerly known as the library. This vibrant hub has become a welcoming environment during break times and throughout the school day, where students can participate in a variety of Individual, Targeted, and Universal programs supported by both our Wellbeing and Learning Support Teams. The Engagement Hub is also home to our Breakfast Club, open to all students from Years 7 to 12. This initiative not only ensures students start their day with a nutritious meal but also fosters connection with staff and peers, setting a positive tone for the day.
Further excitement has come through the ongoing development of our Learning Centre, which has quickly become a dynamic hub of activity and support within the school community. At the heart of the Centre is our well-resourced school library, offering students access to a wide range of literature, research materials, and digital resources designed to foster a love of reading and support academic success across all year levels.
In addition to serving as a library, the Learning Centre also provides a dedicated space for our senior students to access academic and wellbeing support. Whether they need assistance with study skills, assignment planning, or career guidance, students can find tailored support to help them navigate the demands of their senior years. The Learning Centre is also home to our dedicated transition team, who play a vital role in working closely with students as they plan and prepare for life beyond school. Through individual mentoring, pathway planning, and connections with external providers, the transition team ensures that every student has the guidance and resources they need to confidently take their next steps, whether that’s further education, training, or entering the workforce. Together, these elements make the Learning Centre a central pillar of our school’s commitment to student growth, engagement, and success.
This term, all Year 7 students participated in the Just Like You workshop delivered by Variety. This program promoted inclusive education by celebrating diversity and fostering respect, understanding, and empathy. Through engaging activities, students explored how to build and maintain positive relationships while developing a strong sense of belonging. It was wonderful to have Variety onsite in our context to cover these topics.
Attendance, supporting students holistically and student engagement have remained key focus areas, with our Wellbeing Team this term. Students with over 85% attendance, who have at least 10 positive behaviour entries, and who consistently demonstrate our TRED School Values are invited to end-of-term reward excursions. This term’s exciting options include Laser Tag, Bubble Soccer, Movie outings, Fastlane Karting, and Mega Golf. It’s been fantastic to see so many students acknowledged for their positive contributions and efforts this term.
Our school continues to work closely with our Home School Liaison Officer (HSLO) and Aboriginal Attendance Officer (AAO) to support students in developing strong attendance habits. Our goal is to ensure that all students feel connected, supported, and ready to learn each day. We kindly ask parents and carers to keep us informed of any student absences, as this allows us to provide timely and tailored support.
Our Student Representative Council (SRC) had the opportunity to attend a networking day at Eagle Vale High School. This event allowed our students to connect with peers from other schools, and to further develop their leadership and public speaking skills. Since returning, they’ve put these skills into action, continuing to be a valued voice within our school community. We encourage all students to share their ideas through the SRC and be part of shaping our school culture.
The Secondary Studies Team has also provided some excellent opportunities this term. Year 11 and 12 students participated in the Talk Money workshop, and students also attended the MACE Expo, First Aid course, Careers Expos, and received guidance through Your Town visits. Our school is proud to be part of the Educational Pathways Program (EPP), which offers a wide range of post-school and subject selection support. The team is currently assisting Year 10 students with subject selection and transition planning. Looking ahead, we’ll be hosting a Subject Selection Evening next term to support students in Years 8 and 10 as they move into their next stage of learning. Additionally, some students have worked with our Support Teacher Transition (STT), receiving tailored support to help them explore future pathways with confidence and clarity.
The Support Unit has had a particularly successful term, with Community Access events that focus on real-world learning experiences. Students have developed valuable literacy and numeracy skills while engaging in travel training to gain confidence using public transport. Communication skills have also been a major focus, with students practising these in authentic settings. These opportunities are vital in preparing our students for independence and life beyond the classroom.
Wellbeing, Learning Support, and Support strive to continue to collaborate closely with students, families, and key stakeholders to develop and review Personalised Learning and Support Plans (PLaSPs). These plans are designed to reflect each student’s strengths, needs, and aspirations. As we move into Semester 2, we’ll be reconnecting with families and stakeholders to review and refine these plans, ensuring they continue to align with student goals and support their holistic development.
We greatly value your partnership and the insights you bring. Genuine collaboration is essential to creating meaningful, personalised support that meets the needs of every student. Your involvement in the planning process and open communication helps us provide the most effective support possible.
We are incredibly proud of all that our students have achieved this term and look forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue working together to ensure the success of every student.
Mrs J Thompson
Deputy Principal Inclusion and Support