From the Principal 

I believe that a key strength of our school community is the genuine care we show our students. I see this every day through the nature of the interactions between staff and students, students and their siblings, older and younger students, and parents and their children.  When students are asked to extend a helping hand to a new student, it occurs. Many parents have commented to me that that their child's transition to John Wollaston was made so much smoother by a kind student buddy and approachable, caring staff.

A culture of care requires constant nurture. We do this informally and formally; the latter through implementing a range of age appropriate pastoral programs, including Encounters, to foster the young person's character development such that they grow in confidence, resilience and self- awareness. Furthermore, we have staff throughout the School with particular responsibilities for the pastoral care and wellbeing of the students. They are led by the Dean of Pastoral Care Kylie Virgo and the Deputy Head of Primary Glyn Teape, who work together to ensure we have a whole school approach to care. School Counsellor Nichola Jobson, Chaplain Justine and our visiting AISWA school psychologist Bas Snjider, bring special skills and experience to the Pastoral Team.

We are mindful that in Term 4 when there is so much excitement around events that mark the end of a phase of a child's education and closure to the school year, that there can be feelings of anxiety and uncertainty about what lies ahead: 

What happens in Year 2? Will I be able to play in the big playground?

How will I cope in Year 7 with so many new students and teachers? 

How will I juggle my homework, part time job and playing sport in Year 11?

I'm so looking forward to Year 12 and being a Prefect. Will it live up to my expectations?

The School's orientation programs for current and new students and parents are an important means of allaying concerns and providing important information about the School. Please encourage your child to participate wholeheartedly in orientation activities which include asking questions, working collegially, helping new students and having fun.

This past fortnight I have heard great feedback from the children about the Primary Encounters that have taken place this term. Our last Primary Encounter, the Year 2s ferrying to Rottnest for a day on the island, returns early this evening. It is certainly 'a big day out' for all involved. Thank you to Co-curricular Coordinator Mel Fowler who so capably oversees the organisation of our Encounter program for all years. It is a mammoth job.

On Friday 10th November, Years 2 to 10 students gathered together to pause and remember the sacrifice of those who have served and those who have lost their lives serving Australia in wars and armed conflicts. It was wonderful to have Primary Teacher Officer Cadet Morris speak to the staff and students about the importance of Remembrance Day.

Last Friday evening I enjoyed the Year 9 Theatre Arts and Musical Theatre performances, the latter superbly supported by the Primary Musical Theatre Club and Secondary Musical Theatre Ensemble. Congratulations to the performers and teachers Rhiannon Thomas, Hollie Burbage and Rory Marchant. Thank you to the many families who supported these events by their attendance. 

On Thursday 23 November Year 5s reprise their annual Night of Living Treasures which is always a highlight of their year.  Year 6 students and staff are preparing for their Exhibition and Valedictory which promise to be memorable events for our senior Primary students. The first of the Praise and Thanksgiving ceremonies will be held for Year 10 and 11 students on Wednesday 29 November.

I look forward to seeing many families at our end of year events. 

With good wishes

Anne Ford