From the Principal 

Thank you to the many members of our school community who extended their appreciation and good wishes to me on the announcement of my retirement last week. When you enjoy working in education as much as I have throughout my career, retirement always seems far away. Alas, time catches up with us all and I look forward to handing over the baton to my successor in mid 2024. With record enrolments, the new Strategic Plan 2023-2026 and a new Master Plan to be launched in the coming months, the School is well positioned for the fresh ideas and perspective that a new Principal will bring. I look forward to exploring new opportunities in retirement but in the interim it is business as usual.

The ATAR examinations commenced this week, with Biology the first exam. Our best wishes are extended to the students for the examination period which extends well into November.

Several of the Primary years undertake their Encounter in Term 4. They are eagerly anticipated as a “big experience” to develop character strengths ,including resilience and independence. Today our Pre Primary students, staff and parent helpers visited Kings Park for their Encounter. Our Year 4s visited the CBD today and have included a sleep over at school as a new activity in their Encounter.

The Arts Department hasn’t paused since the musical, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. This term, the Vaudeville Night, Instrumental Concerts and a Musical Theatre performance give the Primary and Secondary students wonderful opportunities to showcase their skills and passion for the Arts.

The Class of 93 celebrated its 30th Reunion at the School on 28 October. It was a very happy occasion with approximately 50 students and staff gathering to reminisce, tour the School and share their journeys since 1993. Congratulations  and thank you to Sharon Williams who organised the evening. We look forward to the reunions of Old Wollastonians in 2024.

Preparations are well advanced for the celebratory events which occur later in the term. We look forward to them all as the year gradually draws to a close.

 With good wishes

Anne Ford