Principal's Report

Glen Innes High School was filled with connection, conversation and plenty of fun this week as students and staff came together to recognise R U OK? Day. The day provided an important opportunity for our school community to reflect on the value of checking in with the people around us and to remember that sometimes a simple conversation can make a meaningful difference.

Throughout the day, students participated in a range of activities designed to promote connection and bring our school community together. CLaN groups worked collaboratively to develop messages of support and encouragement, sharing what R U OK? means to them and reminding others of the importance of looking out for one another. Creativity was also on display through our R U OK? Day photo competition, where students captured the themes of friendship, connection and supporting one another.

There was plenty of fun throughout the day too, with pancakes, lollipops and music adding to the atmosphere, as well as a very competitive handball game involving students and staff. While there were plenty of smiles and laughs, all these activities supported a much bigger message: we don't need to be experts to check in with someone. Taking the time to notice, ask “Are you OK?”, listen and encourage someone to seek support can make a genuine difference.

We hope our students continue to carry this message with them beyond R U OK? Day and look out for their friends, classmates, families and wider community throughout the year. A big thank you to all our students and staff who contributed to such a positive and supportive day. Remember, ask R U OK? any day, because a conversation could change a life.

It is hard to believe that we now have just two weeks remaining of Term 3. As we approach the end of term, we would like to remind students and families that regular attendance remains incredibly important right through to the final day of school. Teaching and learning continue throughout these final weeks, and every day at school provides an opportunity for students to remain engaged, connected and progressing in their learning. We encourage all students to finish the term strongly and maintain their regular attendance.

If your family is planning to travel during the school term, please ensure you contact the school and follow the correct application for extended leave guidelines and processes. Wherever possible, families are encouraged to plan holidays and travel during scheduled school holiday periods. Let's make these final two weeks count and finish Term 3 on a positive note.

We would also like to wish all our Year 11 students the very best of luck as they prepare for their upcoming Preliminary Examinations. This is an important milestone in their senior schooling journey and an opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and understanding they have developed throughout their Year 11 courses. We encourage students to prepare well, make use of the support available from their teachers, look after themselves during the examination period and approach each exam with confidence. Good luck, Year 11 – back yourselves, do your best and be proud of the work you have put in!

Finally, a reminder to our parents, carers and community that we are very fortunate to be hosting a FREE parent session with Sue Larkey on Tuesday 16 September from 6:00pm–8:00pm in the Glen Innes Public School Library. Sue Larkey is a highly regarded educator, author and presenter with extensive experience in supporting autistic children and young people. Her sessions provide practical strategies and ideas that parents, carers and educators can use to better understand and support the individual needs of children and young people. This is a wonderful opportunity for our parents and carers to hear from Sue, gain practical strategies and build their understanding in a welcoming and supportive environment. We encourage our families to come along and take advantage of this valuable free community event.

As we head into the final two weeks of Term 3, thank you to our students, staff, parents and carers for your continued support of Glen Innes High School. We look forward to a positive and productive finish to the term.

Natalie Hill

Relieving Principal