Principal's Report

Dear Parents, Carers, and Community Members,

We’ve just completed six weeks of learning, and with only four weeks left until the end of Term 1 and the beginning of the Easter holidays, it’s been a busy and fulfilling start to the year. Our students and staff have packed a lot into the short time we’ve been back, including events such as the school swimming carnival, the opening school/Dux Mass, and the Ash Wednesday liturgy at the cathedral. In addition to these, there have been countless opportunities for students to engage in a wide range of learning experiences and extracurricular activities, including school-based retreats, the Science and Engineering Challenge, Agricultural shows, and various sports.

As a school, our role is to offer opportunities through both our teaching practices and extracurricular activities that help all students reach their full potential, no matter the pathway they choose to pursue. Our focus is on providing each student with the chance to develop personally, learn about themselves, recognise their unique gifts, and engage deeply in their learning. We aim to help them grow into the best versions of themselves, teaching them not only academic skills but also how to be authentic, positive-thinking individuals who interact meaningfully with the world around them.

We’ve had a positive start to the year, especially with the introduction of our vertical house system, which has helped build stronger connections between students and the school. Our next step is to focus on creating a calmer classroom environment, where all students have the best opportunity to succeed.

This week, all parents should have received an email from me outlining some concerns shared by the school leadership team and staff about the learning environment being impacted by the unproductive and unsafe behaviors of a small number of students. The purpose of the letter was to reassure you that we are working hard to improve the learning conditions for all students. If a student needs to meet with us to discuss stopping or replacing unproductive or unsafe behaviors, please know that they will receive appropriate support and structure. In some cases, we may need the support of parents to address these issues. This effort is part of our commitment to creating a more focused, calm classroom environment that gives all students the best chance to thrive.

On Thursday morning, I spoke to the student body about the importance of O'Connor students looking after O’Connor students, including addressing concerns around unproductive and unsafe behaviors. Below are the key points I shared with the students:

1. I am Safe
   • I feel secure and protected.
   • I take actions to look after myself and others.
2. I am Respected and Valued
   • I have a sense of self-worth.
   • I show respect for my environment and others.
3. I am Cared For
   • I belong to a community.
   • I am wanted and needed.
   • I can listen and be heard.
4. I am a Learner
   • I have a sense of purpose and meaning.
   • Going to school is worthwhile.
   • I strive to be the best I can be.

As parents and teachers, we all play a key role in shaping students’ learning experiences. That’s why it’s crucial we work together in partnership to help students succeed. One way you can support your child’s engagement in their learning is by having regular conversations with them about school. Here are some questions you can ask your child in the evening to spark discussion:

1. What was the best part of your day at school?
2. What did you learn today?
3. How are you doing?
4. Is there anything you need help with, or what did you do if you didn’t understand something?
5. How can you improve your learning?
6. What are you most proud of today?

These questions are adapted from Lyn Sharratt’s 5 Critical Questions for Students.

As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Thank you for your continued support.

The Fruit of the Spirit is Love

Mr Phillip Gibney

Principal