From the Principal
Term 2 finished with our Year 12 students sitting their trial HSC exams. These practice exams provided a valuable opportunity to experience the format, timing, and pressure of the actual HSC, helping students identify their strengths and areas for improvement. By sitting trial exams, students can develop effective study strategies, manage exam stress, and build confidence, all of which contribute to better performance in the final exams. I know that our students will reflect deeply on their performances in the trial exams and use their results and feedback to prepare for the HSC exams in term 4.
Throughout week 3, Camden High School proudly joined schools across New South Wales in celebrating Public Education Week—a time to recognise and honour the vital role public education plays in shaping the futures of our students and communities. Public Education Week highlighted the commitment of our dedicated teachers, staff, and families who work together to provide inclusive, high-quality education for all students, and was an opportunity to reflect on the values of equity, diversity, and opportunity that underpin our public education system.
This year’s theme, Ignite your potential, serves as a powerful reminder of why, as educators in the public system, we do what we do. Across NSW, our students can thrive thanks to the dedication, creativity and care of our staff, families and communities. A highlight of my week was the opportunity to hear one of our captains, Joshua, address the assembly at The Oaks Public School. As a former student and school captain at TOPS, Joshua reflected on the support and opportunities that ignited his potential, and how this has been further developed and enhanced by his experiences at Camden High School. As said so eloquently by Joshua,
“Education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the world. Knowledge is power and learning is the tool to success. Each day we are given the privilege to be taught, where every lesson is an opportunity to grow, and no growth is ever bad. Education is about taking chances and making mistakes. Education gives you, me and everybody the possibility to be whoever you want to. It is this quality that makes it so impactful.”
It is timely to remind our school community of the NSW Government and Department of Education policy of a mobile phone ban in high schools. Camden High School has implemented a Locked Device Pouch System and this applies to all school hours, including break times at recess and lunch, as well as while students are on school-based excursions. Unlocking stations are available at key entrances to the school, and students are expected to turn off their phones and place them into pouches upon entry to the school grounds each morning. Unlocking stations are then available at the end of each day after the final bell has gone. Further information regarding the mobile phone ban and follow up for non-compliance is available on our website.
The rationale behind the mobile phone ban includes several important considerations:
Minimising Distractions: Mobile phones can interrupt concentration with notifications, messages, and calls, detracting from focus on lessons and study.
Encouraging Social Engagement: Without phones, students are more likely to engage with peers face-to-face, building social skills and fostering a positive school community.
Supporting Mental Health: Reducing phone use during school hours helps limit exposure to social media pressures, contributing to better mental wellbeing.
We understand that mobile phones are valuable tools for communication and learning outside of school hours. However, during school time, our priority is to create an environment where all students can learn and interact without unnecessary interruptions. We appreciate the co-operation of students, staff, and families as we continue to implement this policy to enhance the educational experience and wellbeing of our school community.
Karen Woods - Principal