"The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new” — Socrates

The past few weeks have been characterised by change, as we move into our new semester and begin to bring to life some ideas and actions to re-energise our college community.

Our new behaviour framework, starting with our Expectations Guide, has been introduced to students and staff, and is designed to help create a safer, more positive learning environment for everyone. We are a community committed to high standards, and excellence starts with each of us demonstrating respect and care for one another, and individually committing to doing our best, both in the classroom and in the wider community. Our guide is the first part of a framework for improvement to ensure all our learners experience a consistent approach to learning, and have the chance to develop, grow, take learning risks and make mistakes in a supportive and nurturing environment. I ask all families to familiarise themselves with the Guide, alongside our Mobile Phone policy and Acceptable Use Agreement, so that we can be effective partners in upholding high expectations.

BSC students, families and school council have certainly been putting their energy into building the new, initiating some fantastic grounds improvement projects. The first of these is the re-development of our Dendy Street outdoor sports precinct, which will be transformed into three brand new multi-sports courts, accessible to our students and also to the community out of school hours.

College Council will shortly be reviewing proposals for this space, with a view to commencing works in term four.

The second initiative is ‘The Oasis’, a VSBA-led project to create a wellbeing garden and outdoor relaxation space for students. The college was successful in obtaining a $300,000 grant through the inclusive schools fund, and concepts for this space have been approved and are now out for tender.

On behalf of our community, I extend a huge thanks and congratulations to all those involved in these projects - an enormous amount of work has gone into their planning and they promise to be fantastic additions to our college!

It has been great to see so much interest in our new Basketball Academy, which will begin in term three; registration forms will be sent out over the next few days so its not to late to express your interest or find out more about the program, which is part of our commitment to providing enriching opportunities for students beyond the classroom. I know students are looking forward to beginning in the Academy, and I can’t wait to see their progress!

Finally, congratulations to all our students and staff on their efforts this term, through recent exams, sporting achievements, club participation and classroom endeavours. It has been terrific to see their enthusiasm and hard work across a range of fields, and I have no doubt everyone is ready for a well-deserved winter break! I wish you all a safe and enjoyable holiday and look forward to seeing our community refreshed and renewed for term three!

Anne Stout,

Interim Principal

INTERNATIONAL BRING YOUR DOG TO WORK DAY

Last Friday, staff at BSC celebrated International Bring your Dog to Work Day.