Principal Team Report

Dear WHSC Community,

What We Do at WHSC: Setting the Tone for Learning

At WHSC, we are committed to maintaining high standards in learning environments across the College. Our shared classroom routines, as outlined in the “What We Do at WHSC” guide, form a strong foundation for respectful, purposeful learning.

Students are expected to arrive punctually, bring the necessary learning materials, and enter classrooms in an orderly and respectful manner. Teachers are equally committed—greeting students, checking uniform and materials, and clearly outlining Learning Intentions and Success Criteria. These shared routines promote engagement, structure, and student voice through collaborative seating and differentiated instruction. We are proud of the consistent and professional tone these expectations establish across all year levels.

The guide has previously been shared via Compass and is also included in this edition of the College Newsletter.

Attendance Update – A Culture Shift in Progress

Positive attendance has been a strong focus this year, and I am pleased to report a significant improvement. Throughout Semester 1, we’ve shared “accounted for” attendance data in our newsletters and bulletins. These metrics are improving compared to recent years, and we thank our families and staff for their efforts in keeping communication open and consistent.

To provide further context, by the end of last year, 65% of our students had 20 or more days of absence. This year, at the time this report was written, that figure is 9%. This is a remarkable shift, reflecting our community’s shared commitment to regular school attendance and student wellbeing and connectedness.

Of course, some students experience challenges with school attendance, particularly due to anxiety. It’s important to recognise the signs and respond early. Parents and carers are encouraged to:

• Maintain calm and reassuring routines.
• Openly discuss worries with their child and avoid reinforcing avoidance behaviour.
• Encourage attendance even if the student is late or anxious—any time at school is better than none.
• Seek support from the school or a GP if anxiety persists.

We also remind families to avoid scheduling appointments or holidays during term time and to communicate promptly with the school if their child is absent.

Resources with practical tips and strategies can be accessed through the Department of Education and services such as Headspace, Kids Helpline, and Parentline. Our Learning and Wellbeing Leaders along with the Wellbeing Team are also available to support students and families.

College Production: High School Musical – Opening Soon!

Excitement is building as our 2025 College Production, High School Musical, approaches opening night. I’d like to extend heartfelt thanks to the dedicated production team, led by Nicholas Gramatakos, for their tireless work. Our students have committed countless hours to rehearsals, including a recent production camp that has elevated the performance quality even further.

With only limited tickets remaining, we encourage all families to secure their seats for what promises to be an energetic and joyful celebration of student creativity and teamwork.

Performance Dates:

• Thursday 5 June – Opening Night
• Friday 6 June
• Saturday 7 June
• Thursday 12 June
• Friday 13 June
• Saturday 14 June - Closing Night

Student-Free Day – Tuesday 3 June

A reminder that Tuesday 3 June will be a student-free day as staff engage in professional practice workshops. We are delighted to welcome respected educator Glenn Pearsall, who will lead staff development sessions focused on instructional practice and student engagement.

Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting our students' growth and success.

On behalf of the College Executive Team

Warm regards.

Jeremy Woods

Assistant Principal