PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

As we approach the conclusion of Term 1, I would like to take a moment to commend the outstanding efforts of both our students and staff. Despite being a busy term, it has proven to be exceptionally productive.

Last week marked Harmony Week, a celebration that acknowledges our diversity and fosters connections among individuals from various backgrounds. This week promotes inclusiveness, respect, and a sense of belonging for everyone. Thank you to the staff and students who coordinated activities for Harmony Week.

On Monday, March 24th, we welcomed Mrs. Antonette Portbury to our team. Additionally, we are pleased to announce that Ms. Vivian Jebet Chepkwony will be joining our teaching staff on Wednesday, April 2nd. The addition of these talented educators will enable us to commence Term 2 with a complete teaching team. We extend our sincere gratitude to Mrs. Tonya Taylor for her dedication in covering Ms. Chepkwony’s classes thus far. Furthermore, Ms. Nichola Miliano will be taking a leave of absence to travel overseas and enhance her teaching experience during Terms 2 and 3. We wish her all the best in her endeavours.

I would like to extend my congratulations to all students who received commendation certificates this term. Staff members have the opportunity to recognise students who have excelled in various academic or extracurricular areas, or who have exemplified our school values of Compassion, Dignity, Forgiveness, Generosity, Respect, and Reverence. This term, a total of 85 commendations have been awarded. I would like to highlight a few examples:

Ella (Year 8) - Commended for the school value of Generosity:

Ella is to be commended for her regular attendance at Knit and Knatter on Wednesday lunchtimes. She has also undertaken to complete knitted squares at home using her own materials to assist the group in making squares for a project. Her generosity is greatly appreciated.

Tommy  (Year 8) - Commended for our school theme, Intentional Inclusivity:

Tommy has repeatedly demonstrated the value of Intentional Inclusivity during homeroom and pastoral care. His efforts to ensure that everyone is involved and feels like part of the group shows compassion and respect.

Chloe (Year 10) - Commended for the school value of Compassion:

Chloe demonstrated the value of compassion, in ensuring her peer was supported, offering her time and care. 

I would like to commend all students for their dedication, inclusivity, and commitment to striving for excellence.

During the upcoming holidays, I encourage you to take time to reflect on the significance of Easter and the sacrifice that Jesus made for us. The Easter narrative conveys profound hope and joy while also illustrating the extensive work required by the early Christian community, which included reaching out to those both near and far. In some respects, this challenge remains relevant today; as members of the Christian community, we may at times overlook others within our community and fail to extend our support to those in need. As we gather to celebrate Easter over the holidays, I urge all members of our community to genuinely reflect on how Jesus influences our lives and how we, as individuals committed to compassion, can positively impact the lives of others.

Michelle Haeusler

Principal