Assistant Principal News

Megan Retallick

Wellbeing & Inclusion Update

I can’t believe we are already at the end of Term 2 and halfway through the school year. It has been a wonderful term, and it has been fantastic to see our students so settled, connected and engaged in their learning programs.

This term, I have been fortunate to teach Year 7 Art alongside our Art Teacher, Elsie. We continue to be blown away by the creativity, enthusiasm and energy of our newest students. It has been particularly rewarding to see the confidence they have developed over the semester and the pride they take in their learning.

As we wrap up the term, students participated in a range of learning showcases, providing opportunities to celebrate their achievements and share their work with peers, staff and the wider school community. These moments are always a highlight, as they reflect not only the quality of student learning but also the sense of accomplishment and belonging that students develop through their educational journey. We are excited to see what Term 3 will bring.

Throughout the term, we have continued our work with Rebecca Harris, Educational Wellbeing Consultant and Counsellor, as we further develop our knowledge and skills in supporting young people with neurodivergent profiles. Rebecca also co-facilitates our Graduate Teacher Professional Learning Program, providing valuable opportunities to build the knowledge and practical skills of our newest teachers. This ongoing partnership helps ensure that our work at KCHS remains consistent, evidence-informed and responsive to the needs of our students.

In Week 10, we were fortunate to participate in a trial of the Clinical Education Program in Schools, led by the University of Melbourne and Tom Brunzell, founder of the Berry Street Education Model. This initiative provided an exciting opportunity for KCHS to showcase the work we have undertaken in the trauma-informed and disability inclusion spaces, as well as the deep care, expertise and commitment our staff bring to supporting young people every day.

We are now well into our third year of Disability Inclusion implementation at Kensington. To date, we have successfully completed thirty-three Disability Inclusion Profiles. The Disability Inclusion Profile process recognises the adjustments, supports and personalised approaches our staff design and implement to support student learning, engagement and wellbeing.

Funding received through the Disability Inclusion Profile process has enabled KCHS to continue strengthening our allied health team, operate our Junior and Senior Engagement Programs, expand opportunities for students through diverse programming, and enhance our learning environments. It also supports ongoing professional learning for staff, ensuring we continue to build and refine our evidence-based practices.

I would like to sincerely thank the families who have participated in the Disability Inclusion Profile process. These meetings are always a celebration of students’ strengths, growth and achievements, and we greatly appreciate the time, insights and collaboration that families bring to the process.

This term, we have also celebrated many examples of students building stamina, increasing attendance, participating in school activities and taking positive steps towards their individual goals. Progress looks different for every young person, and we are incredibly proud of the determination, resilience and courage our students show each day as they continue their learning journey.

I would also like to thank our families and carers for your ongoing partnership and support. The strong connections between home and school play a vital role in helping our students thrive. We look forward to continuing this work together next term as we support every student to experience success, connection and belonging at Kensington Community High School.

I hope all students, families and staff enjoy a well-deserved break. For those heading away to warmer destinations, enjoy the sunshine! For those staying in Melbourne like me, stay warm and enjoy the opportunity to slow down and recharge.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back for another exciting term of learning, growth and connection!

Megan Retallick

Assistant Principal – Wellbeing and Inclusion