DEPUTY PRINCIPAL - COMMUNITY & CULTURE

End of Term Reflection and Important Reminders

As we approach the end of another successful term, I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate our students on their many achievements and contributions to College life.

Whether through learning, leadership, service, sport, the arts, co-curricular activities, or simply supporting and including others each day, our students continue to make our community a positive and welcoming place. I am always proud to see so many young people consistently demonstrating our values, meeting expectations, and showing respect for themselves, others, and the environment.

As we head towards the term break, I would like to share a couple of important reminders with families.

Road Safety

Recently, the College has received reports from members of the community regarding unsafe behaviour by some of our students on roads and around traffic while travelling to and from school.

I ask parents and carers to please take a moment to discuss road safety with their children. Whether students are walking, riding a bike or scooter, travelling as passengers, or driving themselves, making safe choices is essential.

Students should be reminded to follow road rules, use crossings where provided, wear appropriate safety equipment, and avoid distractions such as mobile phones when near roads and traffic. Even a moment of inattention can have serious consequences.

New road safety posters have been displayed around the College, and I encourage students to take the time to read them. Together, we can help ensure that every student arrives safely at school and returns home safely each day.

Responsible Use of School Devices

I would also like to remind families about the importance of responsible technology use.

Recently, there has been an increase in attempts to access blocked or inappropriate websites using College-issued MacBooks, including outside school hours. Families should be aware that internet activity on school devices is monitored to support student safety and wellbeing and attempts to access blocked content are automatically flagged to our IT team.

From the beginning of Term 4, any student who attempts to access blocked or inappropriate content will have their MacBook automatically locked and will be required to meet with their House Leader before the device is unlocked. This conversation will provide an opportunity to review the expectations outlined in the School Technology Agreement and reinforce responsible online behaviour.

Our aim is not simply to apply consequences, but to support students in making safe, responsible choices that reflect our College values both at school and beyond.

Expectations Excellence Awards

To finish on a positive note, I am delighted to share the introduction of our new Expectations Excellence Award, which recognises students who consistently demonstrate our school values and expectations.

Each term, two students from each House will be selected by House Leaders based on commendation awards and their ongoing contribution to school life. These students exemplify qualities such as respect, responsibility, perseverance, positive participation, inclusion, and consistent effort.

Award recipients are recognised at Formal Assemblies, receive a certificate presented by our School Captains, a canteen voucher, and contribute 10 points to their House.

I am particularly pleased that this award celebrates the many students who quietly and consistently make a positive difference to our College community every day. Their actions help create the supportive, respectful, and inclusive culture of which we are all proud, and I look forward to recognising these deserving students throughout the year.

Congratulations to the following students who have received Term 3 Expectations Excellence Awards:

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership throughout the term. I wish all students and families a safe, restful and enjoyable break, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 4.

Kath Jones

Deputy Principal Community & Culture