I hope this newsletter finds you in good spirits as we delve into the latest happenings at St. Helena, and move into the final weeks of the term. My apologies for the late edition - I have just returned from a brief but rejuvenating period of long service leave. It's great to return to the end of year celebrations for our students.

Year 12 Graduation Ceremony

Last week marked an important milestone as we celebrated the accomplishments of our Year 12 cohort during their graduation ceremony. It was a poignant moment witnessing these young individuals embark on their next journey beyond the walls of St. Helena. We wish them all the best for their future endeavors. I would like to especially recognise the Year 12 student leaders for their high level contribution to the college this year.

Year 11 and 12 Orientation

As we bid farewell to our graduating seniors, we are thrilled to welcome our 2024 Year 11 and 12 students to their orientation week. This is a crucial time for them to acclimatize to the demands and expectations of their senior years. We encourage all students to actively engage and make the most of the resources available.

Year 7-9 last weeks

At St Helena, we have a policy of keeping students learning right until their very last day. Class parties and entertainment videos with no curriculum link have no place in our classrooms. Attendance is vital until the very last day, unless of course your child is unwell.

Students who have not completed sufficient work to progress to the next year level, will be asked to attend Redemption Days following the Big Day Out. You will be contacted directly if this applies to your child.

Students will celebrate the end of their year at the Big Day Out on the 14th of December. Please ensure you pay and consent for this event prior to the deadline, as the event will not be re-opened if you forget to consent by the due date. Taking this number of students out of the school is a large logistical undertaking, and we need to ensure we have the paperwork correct, third party providers have the accurate number of students attending, our invoices are paid correctly and our first aid kits are tailored to the medical needs of individual students.

Outstanding Achievements in Theatre and Musical Theatre Awards

St. Helena continues to shine brightly in the performing arts arena! We are proud to announce an impressive number of award nominations received in both the Lyrebird Youth Theatre Awards and the Musical Theatre Guild of Victoria Awards for this year's productions of CHICAGO (High School Edition) and FRANKENSTEIN. Such recognition is a testament to the dedication and talent of our students in the performing arts.

Most exciting is the news that we have already been awarded Production of the Year (Chicago), Best Director (Chicago - Laura Zinghini), Best Musical Direction (Chicago Bruce Coombs) and Lead Performer in a Female Role (Chicago - Siena Laidler) in the Musical Guild of Victoria Awards.

Big Day Out Celebration

Mark your calendars for Thursday 14th December! Our Year 7-9 students are invited to a thrilling Big Day Out celebration alongside their year level managers and Strive teachers. Year 7-8 students will be embarking on an adventure to Funfields in Whittlesea, while our Year 9 students will experience the magic of Hoyts Greensborough, watching the much-anticipated 'Wonka' film starring Timothee Chalamet. Please note the earlier cut-off date for consent for Year 9 students, ensuring we can finalize numbers for the event.

Halloween Dress Up Day

Our recent Halloween Dress Up Day was a spooktacular affair! Congratulations to Count Dracula and Princess Peach, whose creativity and enthusiasm made them the Best Dressed Stars of the day among our Year 7-11 students.

Get Active Kids Vouchers

Families and students, take advantage of the Get Active Kids Voucher Program! This initiative offers up to $200 for registration and membership fees at local sporting clubs for eligible Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card holders. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to support your child's sporting endeavors. Apply now at www.getactive.vic.gov.au/vouchers.

Movember

At St. Helena, we stand in solidarity for men's health initiatives through Movember. Our dedicated team of Mo Bros and Mo Sisters is actively participating to raise awareness. You can show your support by donating to our cause via the link provided: https://movember.com/t/sthelena-and-the-facefuzz?mc=1

Victorian State All Schools Championships

A round of applause for our talented students who excelled at the Victorian State All Schools Championships! They showcased their remarkable skills, securing medals and representing St. Helena with pride. Congratulations on your outstanding achievements, paving the way for the National All Schools Championship in Perth this December.

GOLD MEDALS:

U17F Javelin: Vanessa Smith (St Helena SC) 37.19m (1st)

SILVER MEDALS:

U18F 400m Hurdles: Charlee Dickson (St Helena SC) 66.12 (2nd)

U18F Javelin: Tara Smith (St Helena SC) 40.20m (2nd)

U14M Javelin: Toby Hamilton (St Helena SC) 35.41m (2nd)

BRONZE MEDALS:

U17F Hammer Throw: Vanessa Smith (St Helena SC) 38.34m (3rd)

Our Futures Program 2024

We are excited to partner with OurFutures Institute to deliver evidence-based substance use and mental health programs aligned with our curriculum. Our focus on prevention aims to equip students with knowledge and skills for a healthy future. To learn more about this invaluable program, visit: https://ourfuturesinstitute.org.au/

Please stay updated with the school events and announcements on Compass, ensuring you don't miss any important information.

Wishing you all a successful and fulfilling month ahead!

2023 SHSC Y11 Media (google.com)

From the Principal 2023

Dare to Be Excellent

Term 4 Weeks 6 & 7 · 20 Nov 2023

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