Deputy Principal

Introduction

Thank you to The Gap community for the warm welcome I have received since commencing in week 3 of this term. I am genuinely grateful for the kindness and openness shown by students, staff and families. Over these first few weeks, I have been prioritising time in getting to know students and staff in the classroom, in the playground, and in conversation with members of our community. I look forward to continuing this in the months ahead.

At the Year 11 assembly on Monday, I shared some of my early observations. I have been impressed by the way our students strive for excellence, both individually and collectively. There is a strong sense of pride in achievement in the classroom, in sports, through the arts or in service to others.  I have also seen firsthand the dedication of our staff who are deeply committed to providing a high-quality education and creating pathways that allow students to pursue their interests and strengths. The breadth of opportunities, programs and specialist offerings available at the school is outstanding. 

It is a privilege to join The Gap community, and I look forward to working in partnership with you to ensure the continued success and growth of our students.

NAPLAN – Years 7 and 9

NAPLAN is scheduled from Wednesday 11 March to Wednesday 18 March, with catch-up sessions scheduled until Friday 20 March. An email was sent to parents and carers on Monday 2 March outlining the requirements for students including what to bring, locations and the order of the tests and catch-up sessions.  Please read this email and assist your student with preparation for the NAPLAN days.

What can you do to support your child for NAPLAN?

Students are not expected to study for NAPLAN. You can support your student by reassuring them that NAPLAN is a part of their school program and reminding them to simply do their best. Some explanation of NAPLAN is useful to help students understand and be comfortable with the format of the tests. However, it is not necessary for parents and carers to do this. Teachers will ensure students are familiar with the types of questions in the tests and will provide appropriate support and guidance. This occurred when students completed their preparation for NAPLAN “Omnibus” session last week.  Parents and carers can see the types of questions and tools available in the online NAPLAN assessments at the public demonstration site.

On the NAPLAN test days, please ensure that your student:

• Charges their laptop the night before
• Has adequate sleep the night before
• Eats a nutritious breakfast
• Keeps a normal morning routine to ensure they are as comfortable as possible.

Upcoming Assessment Preparation

As we have passed the halfway mark for term 1, all students are working toward their assessments over the coming weeks.  Students, parents and carers are reminded of the AARA processes for illness and misadventure (separate forms for years 7 to 9 and 10 to 12). Forms are available on the school’s website through the Curriculum Tab > Junior Secondary (Yr 7 to 9 AARA Form) and Curriculum Tab > Senior Secondary (Yr 10 -12 AARA Form). 

Students in years 11 and 12 will soon receive their Block Exam Timetable and details on which days they will be required at school during weeks 8 and 9. 

I encourage all students to finish the term on a high note. Attend all classes, engage in your course work and strive for excellence in everything that you do. 

Parent Evenings

It was wonderful to see so many families and prospective students attend our recent Programs of Excellence Evening and the Year 10 Senior Pathways Evening. These events provide valuable opportunities for students and families to connect with our staff, explore the breadth of programs available, and discuss the pathways that will best support each young person’s aspirations.

Working in partnership — student, parent/carer and school — is key to ensuring every learner is supported to make informed decisions and experience success throughout their secondary journey. We look forward to welcoming you to many more events across the coming months as we continue these important conversations together.