What a wonderful first week it has been!

I would like to sincerely thank the entire Viewbank College community for making me feel so welcome. Staff, students and families have all been incredibly generous with their time, their conversations and their kindness, and I have genuinely enjoyed getting to know everyone.

One of the things that has struck me most is our students. Everywhere I have gone I have been greeted with smiles, "good mornings" and polite conversations. They have made a terrific first impression, and they should be proud of the way they represent their school.

As for Frankie and Ash...well, I suspect they already think they're the most important members of the leadership team! They have almost been patted bald this week and absolutely love coming to school. Watching students stop for a quick pat and a chat has been one of the real highlights of our days, although I think Frankie is starting to expect celebrity treatment wherever she goes.

I would also like to thank students and families for the positive way you have responded to the reinforcement of our uniform expectations, particularly the removal of hoodies.

Change is not always easy, and I appreciate the support the community has shown.

While hoodies have become a popular fashion item outside school, they pose a genuine safety concern within a school environment because they can conceal a person's identity. In any school, it is important that staff can quickly recognise who belongs on campus and identify anyone who should not be there. Student safety will always be our highest priority.

Over the coming weeks we will continue to strengthen our focus on students wearing the College uniform correctly. Wearing the uniform well is about far more than appearance. It builds pride in our College, creates a sense of belonging, reduces unnecessary competition around clothing, and teaches young people that there are times in life when meeting expectations matters. Whether it's wearing a school uniform, complying with workplace safety requirements or dressing professionally for a future career, learning to take pride in presenting yourself appropriately is an important life skill. It also enables staff to quickly identify intruders who do not belong on our school grounds, providing another important layer of safety for our students and staff.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we work together to maintain the high standards that make Viewbank College such a wonderful place to learn.

I have also been lucky enough to sneak into a couple of rehearsals for Heathers: The Musical, and I can honestly say our audience is in for a treat. The talent, energy and commitment of our students, together with the incredible work of our staff, are producing something very special. If you haven't already booked your tickets, I would encourage you to do so before they sell out. I have no doubt it will be an outstanding production and another wonderful showcase of the exceptional talent at Viewbank College.

Finally, many members of our community have asked about the appointment of a substantive Principal. The Department of Education has recommenced the selection process, with the position now readvertised. Applications are due to close in approximately ten days, after which the selection panel will continue with the appointment process.

Thank you once again for such a warm welcome. I am thoroughly enjoying my time at Viewbank College and look forward to meeting many more of you over the coming weeks.

Karen Terry Acting Principal Rachael Smith, Assistant Principal

Anna Crosswhite, Assistant Principal

Penelope Cleghorn, Assistant Principal

Emma Ford, Acting Assistant Principal

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