BALANCE 

a situation in which different elements are equal or in the correct proportions.

With the completion of the first semester and as we move into the second semester and approach the end of term two, I would like to highlight the importance of maintaining balance in our lives. As adults, we understand the concept of "work/life balance," which ensures we meet our responsibilities while also spending quality time with our families.

Our young people are fortunate to have a wealth of opportunities both inside and outside of school. Many can engage in various activities at school such as sporting events, the academic programs, dance, art and sport academies, music, performing arts, visual arts, and numerous clubs and excursions. Outside of school, they often participate in additional activities such as more dance or music classes, sports, martial arts, performing arts, cadets, scouts & guides – the list is endless. We also are aware of the time spent, sometimes lost, on devices, whether it be gaming or on social media. 

As a school, we recognize the importance of keeping our young people "busy" and the benefits that come from both team and individual activities. We are also mindful of the importance of “balance” and to try not to overload our students with overwhelming levels of homework. But we also emphasize the importance of integrating these learning habits into their weekly routines. By the time they reach the VCE, these habits become crucial to their success. They must learn how to balance the necessary with the wanted. 

When conducting school tours, I tell parents that years 7 and 8 are essential for establishing the foundation of learning habits. Just like the foundations of our homes, a strong base increases the likelihood of stability and success as they progress. We incorporate homework into the weekly routine, expecting that as students advance in their school years, they will find the balance between home responsibilities and other commitments.

During assessment periods, the workload may increase, making balance more challenging to achieve. In these times, parents may need to adjust schedules to support their child's learning. Open communication is key to navigating these challenges and finding a balance that promotes the best outcomes for our young people academically, socially, and in terms of their overall wellbeing.

I would also like to take the opportunity to remind parents that Homework Club runs every Wednesday after school from 3.10pm to 4.15pm in the Bluff Road Library. There are teachers and tutors available to help our students with their homework, ALT preparation, fill gaps in their learning or work in study groups to enhance their success. A snack is provided, and we encourage all students in years 7 to 9 to take this opportunity to attend and “get it done” with support from teachers and peers. 

Let's work together to ensure our students find the right balance in their lives, paving the way for future success.

How amazing was the success of our Kids Lit Team to be the only State School to compete in this prestigious competition and be awarded State Champions. They then went on to represent Victoria at the State Library in Sydney. This was an amazing experience for these year 7 students and we are very proud of their achievement. Thanks also to Kerri Deegan (Librarian) and Katrina Renouf (Head of English) for their support of this amazing venture and team. 

Those who attended our incredible Dance Showcase performances and the wonderful Music Soirees were certainly treated to the magical talents of some our students in these programs. Congratulations to Prue Slingsby, Kristina Hardner and all of the teachers in the Dance program for their incredible work with our dancers, as well as Luke Devenish, supported by Tim Clifton and all of our Instrumental Music teachers for their work with our students to bring these wonderful performances to the stage. I would like to take the opportunity to thank outgoing Director of the Dance Academy, Kristina Hardner for her incredible work over the last 10 years and wish her all the best on her new endeavour. We welcome Jessica Mortimer as the new Director of Dance Academy. Please see the Performing Arts tab in this newsletter for more details about Jessica.

On Sunday June 2nd our dancers had further success at the Dance Star Schools State finals where two items won their way through to the Nationals, to be held in Adelaide in August. We are very proud of the commitment of these students and grateful to their teachers for all the extra time spent in preparing our dancers for this competition. 

A fantastic day was had at our recent Athletics Carnival, held at Thomas St Track on Thursday June 6th. The weather was kind and there was plenty to do for both athletes and those less inclined to compete. This included egg & spoon races, tug of war (very competitive, especially against the staff!) musical statues, BBQ and much more. Special thanks to Erin Carter and her support team for the fantastic organisation of the day and Tim Clifton for his work with student leaders for the less – athletic events. Please refer to the Sport tab in this newsletter for more information and photos of the day. 

Thanks must go to our member of the parent community, Penny Stewart,  for arranging the “parent get together” on Friday June 7th at the Black Rock Sports Club. This was an opportunity for parents to come together and meet other families not just from their children’s year levels but also from across the College. There were quite a few parents there and we again thank Penny and her family for their ongoing support of our College Community. There will be further events in semester two where parents will have the opportunity to support the College, such as helping out at Bunnings Sausage Sizzle or at the Canteen for the College Production of Mary Poppins, so keep an eye out on Compass for further details. 

Congratulations to Tim Clifton and the student leadership team for some of the fantastic work they have been doing supporting the voice and agency of the student body. They have assisted the Wellbeing Team by running activities on IDAHOBIT day, lead activities at the College 

Athletics Carnival and been the voice of change around proposals to further improve environmental, social and uniform changes. Students are encouraged to speak to their campus student leaders, should they have concerns or suggestions for improvements. 

I will be taking some leave at the beginning of next term so wish you all a relaxing midyear break and  look I forward to being back at school in mid-week three. 

Vivienne McElwee