From the Principal's Desk

No doubt the King’s Birthday long weekend allowed a much-needed refresh and reset for all.

In my career I doubt there has been a time when the extent of student absenteeism has been higher. It concerns me. What also concerns me are the students who reach out to their parents through the course of a school day, to be collected. And sadly, they are doing so and by-passing the clear process we have in place; that is, for students to attend the Health Centre first to be assessed, and if required, for parents to then be contacted for collection of their child, if needed. Additionally, students are using their devices for this contact with parents, whether laptop, or mobile phone. Again, this is in absolute contravention of our mobile phone policy. I ask that as parents you are not enablers for your children when they seek to remove themselves from school during a school day.

Pittwater House is known for its care of students. Wellbeing is fundamental to our practice. There are countless staff at our School whose role is just this, and of course all teachers have the wellbeing of their students as the central tenet of their practice. So please, let us work with your sons and daughters, in the first instance, rather than you rallying to their message to be collected. Developing resilience is fundamental to the skills the schooling process must undertake. Of course we do this in partnership with you, their family. Thus, we need to be very clear about our collective approach.

Absenteeism for many will be genuinely needed and this is not the concern discussed herein. For us to provide the best experience and ensure the focus on academics and wellbeing remains central to a Pittwater House education, we need the students to be present, and for us to help them work through the inevitable challenges that at times will come with schooling and relationship and friendship development.

The following infographic from Brisbane Catholic Education is a stark reminder of the 'cost' of student absenteeism on a students learning:

I seek your support in the resilience space.

Last week was key for our current Year 10 and Year 8 students. With their families, they attended subject selection evenings for 2025. In a changed procedure, we provided opportunities for students to hear, on rotation, from Staff in each of the electives on offer. This was followed by a presentation from our Head of Teaching and Learning, Mrs Mano, and Dean of Studies, Mr Demasi, and in addition for our Year 10 students, our Careers Counsellor, Mrs Finney. Now decisions must be made and I would urge you to reach out to these staff if queries remain. Knowledge is power.

The second half of Term 2 is always a time of performance showcasing. Whilst we have already enjoyed two evenings of individual performances, this week highlights our HSC Drama and Music students as well as our elective Years 9, 10 and 11 Drama students and Year 11 Music students. Next Thursday, all Junior School students will be presenting a wonderful array of talent to what I trust, will be a packed Hall.

I am hoping too that the weather will be kind and our Athletics Carnivals can proceed next Monday.

I look forward to sharing these events with you.

With every good wish.