Deputy Principal
Year 9 and 12
Year 9
Year 9 Camp
Congratulations to the nearly 200 Year 9 students who attended the recent camp at Attunga from Wednesday 18 March to Friday 20 March. The boys are to be commended for their outstanding behaviour, positive attitude, and enthusiastic engagement in all activities. It was a pleasure to spend time with them across Thursday afternoon and Friday morning.
There were many highlights across the three days. In particular, the opportunity to sit together by the fire, share stories, and connect as a cohort was a special moment. The openness shown by many students, along with their willingness to be vulnerable, demonstrated maturity and strong character. It was equally inspiring to see boys challenge themselves—especially when faced with fear—whether through high ropes, swings, or flying fox activities. Their courage and resilience were evident throughout.
Experiences such as these play an important role in personal growth, and it is clear that many boys developed confidence, independence, and stronger peer connections during the camp. We now look forward to the next camp experience in Year 10.
I would also like to sincerely thank our dedicated staff who generously gave their time to attend and support the camp. Without their commitment, these valuable opportunities would not be possible.
Establishing Positive Holiday Routines As we move into the holidays, I encourage all Year 9 students to reflect on their Term 1 progress. What went well? What could be improved? Most importantly, what practical steps can be taken to continue improving next term?
Maintaining structure during the holidays is important. Students should aim to keep consistent sleep routines and avoid falling into unproductive habits. Limiting screen time is essential—devices should not be used in bedrooms overnight, and extended periods of gaming or scrolling should be avoided.
Instead, I strongly encourage a balanced routine that includes exercise, time outdoors, reading, hobbies, and meaningful face-to-face interactions with family and friends. Families may also wish to consider setting clear boundaries around device use, including designated technology-free time. In my own household, we prioritise an hour each evening for reading and family connection without devices—an approach that has proven highly beneficial.
Year 12
Holiday Study and Preparation
Year 12 students have now completed two terms, with two remaining before the HSC. This is a critical stage in their learning, and students should be consolidating effective study routines, refining course notes, and identifying the strategies that work best for them.
Students are reminded that the Study Skills Handbook (https://www.studyskillshandbook.com.au/) remains an excellent resource for refining study techniques. This platform, set up by Miss Meek, is highly recommended for all students seeking to improve their approach to learning.
The holiday period provides an important opportunity to catch up on any outstanding work and to begin consistent revision. Students should focus on completing practice questions and past papers in preparation for the Trial Examinations and the HSC.
I also strongly encourage the use of collaborative study. Study groups—whether at a local library or another suitable setting—can be highly effective. Working with peers to test knowledge, explain concepts, and stay accountable has been a key factor in the success of many past cohorts at Epping Boys.
Finally, I remind students that balance remains essential. While academic commitment is crucial, maintaining wellbeing through regular breaks, exercise, and healthy routines will ultimately support sustained performance in the months ahead.
Brain Drain
I recently spoke to Year 12 about a recent 60 Minutes episode on lasting effects of brain rot and the hazardous affects it is having on those who are chronically online. Summary of the program: Excessive screen time is emerging as a serious concern for young people, with experts warning it may be contributing to declining cognitive performance and symptoms resembling early dementia. The program highlights growing evidence linking heavy use of devices—such as smartphones, gaming, and social media—to reduced memory, attention, critical thinking, and emotional wellbeing. Case studies of teenagers reveal disrupted sleep, social withdrawal, and loss of motivation, while neuroscientists suggest that overreliance on technology may physically alter developing brains. Although long-term impacts are still being studied, there is a clear call for moderation, with renewed emphasis on real-world interaction, balance, and conscious use of technology to protect both learning and wellbeing.
As your Relieving Deputy Principal, I want to emphasise that excessive device use does not just affect your current study habits—it can significantly impact your HSC performance, your mental health, and your ability to build strong relationships. The habits you form now will carry into your future, influencing your career success, resilience, and overall wellbeing. Striking a healthy balance with technology is not just important for your results this year, but for the kind of life you build beyond school. If you wish to watch the episode it can be found on: the the nine now website or on youtube via: https://youtu.be/XBedpPCv5c4
School wide attendance:
I am happy to report that during Term 1: 384 students have achieved 100% attendance, a fantastic achievement and big improvement on the Term 1 2025. The 100% attendance students include the following numbers from each year group:
Year 7: 125
Year 8: 91
Year 9: 53
Year 10: 44
Year 11: 43
Year 12: 28
Students receiving 100% attendance each term will receive a certificate and food prize on the last day of the term. I would like to see all year groups increase these numbers during Term 2 and push for closer to 500 boys not missing a day for Term 2 and beyond.
A reminder to all students at the school that our expectation is that all students attend at least 95% of the time. If you fell short in term 1 there is still time to increase your average in Terms 2,3 and 4.
Have a great holidays, boys!
Jonathan Bailey
Relieving Deputy Principal Year 9 and 12
