Principal's Message

Dear parents and carers

Term 3 Day 1 for Students

A reminder that the next designated School Development Day for 2025 will occur on the first day of Term 3 (Monday 21 July), meaning that students recommence school in Term 3 on Tuesday 22nd July. 

Prospective Staff Afternoon

The school will be hosting an information session for prospective staff interested in working at Applecross SHS (teaching or administrative positions) on Tuesday 17 June at 4 pm. Please encourage anyone who may be interested to register their interest on the school website.   

Semester 1 Reports: A Guide for Parents

As we approach the end of the first semester, parents can expect to receive their child’s Semester 1 reports in the coming weeks.

These reports serve as a valuable opportunity for parents to engage in meaningful discussions with their children about their academic progress:

1. What Are Semester 1 Reports?
   • Semester One reports provide grades and other feedback on student’s performance during the first half of the academic year. Feedback can also be gained from other sources such as comments on assessments or other communications.
2. Why Are These Reports Important?
   • Reflection: Students are encouraged to reflect on their progress and achievements. These reports prompt them to consider both their strengths and areas where improvement is needed.
   • Parental Involvement: Parents play a crucial role in this process. By discussing the reports with their children, they can offer guidance, encouragement, and support.
3. What Should Parents Look For?
   • Positives: Celebrate your child’s achievements! Acknowledge areas where they have excelled, whether it’s in academics, extracurricular activities, or personal growth.
   • Challenges: Identify any challenges your child is facing. Are there specific subjects or skills that need improvement? Discuss strategies to overcome these challenges.
   • Teacher Feedback: Reports and assessments often include feedback from teachers. Pay attention to their insights and recommendations.
4. How Can Parents Engage?
   • Schedule a Conversation: Set aside time to discuss the reports with your child. Create an open and supportive environment where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.
   • Ask Questions: Encourage your child to express their feelings about their progress. Are they satisfied? Do they have concerns? Use open-ended questions to facilitate meaningful conversations.
   • Seek Additional Feedback: If you have specific questions or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers via email, phone, or in-person meetings. 

Remember, Semester 1 reports are not just about grades; they provide a holistic view of your child’s development. Let’s work together to support their growth and celebrate their achievements! 

Parents as Partners

Parents are encouraged to stay connected with school events and activities through communications such as the Parent Update or via social media. A significant number of parents are accessing the school website, and an even larger number are accessing our Facebook and Instagram links. 

Stay connected to school news, current events, and activities via the school webpage, Facebook or Instagram:

Website            http://applecross.wa.edu.au/

Facebook         https://www.facebook.com/ApplecrossSeniorHighSchool/

Instagram         https://www.instagram.com/applecross_shs/

Benefits of a strong parent-school relationship

As a parent, you know your child better than anyone else does. Your child’s teachers will want to get to know your child too. The school will develop an understanding of your child’s needs by talking to you and your child. You will always be invited to provide input into any plans for your child’s education.

When you have a strong and mutually respectful relationship with your child’s school and teachers, you are in a good position to advocate for your child. Your child’s teachers and other school staff will work together with you support your child’s learning and wellbeing.

When everybody is working together in the best interests of your child, he or she is likely to reap academic and social benefits, such as:

• a positive attitude towards school
• regular school attendance
• positive school results
• positive social and relationship skills
• a sense of wellbeing
• school completion
• progression to post-secondary education, such as TAFE, university, or apprenticeships.

Who should I contact if I have a question or concern?

This is the link to the Contact Us page of the school website https://www.applecross.wa.edu.au/contact-us

• To contact staff members by email, visit this link: https://www.applecross.wa.edu.au/staff. Click on the red arrow beside the relevant Learning Area or Department to display a list of staff members. To send an email to a staff member, click on their name.

Paul Leech, Principal