Principal report – end of term 1

It seems way too soon to be writing the final report for Term 1 but, here we are. The final weeks of term have been extraordinarily full, offering a meaningful glimpse into the energy and purpose at the heart of our school. Across classrooms and in the many opportunities beyond them, there has been a strong sense of engagement and connection. In the past three weeks, alone, we have seen a statewide teaching strike that impacted our school operations but, despite this, our Year 12 cohort turned up and got the work done. We held our first parent teacher interviews for the year with attendance rates surpassing previous years, and then last night, we held our annual Open Night. Across the term, we have held numerous camps including both our Year 7 and Year 12 cohort camps and VCE Outdoor education camps, sporting excursions at all year levels, excursions such as geography field trips and 9Life activities, incursions like our year 8 Medieval Day activities and somewhere in amongst this, we have managed to run classes where we have see students engaging in their work and study with pride and resilience.

Last night’s Open Night was a wonderful example of our school at its very best. It is always one of my favourite nights of the year and was a joy to see so many families engaging with our staff and students, and to witness the pride with which our young people shared their learning. The feedback has already been overwhelmingly positive, and I would like to thank our students for the way they represented our school with confidence, warmth and authenticity. They are, as always, our greatest ambassadors.

I would like to take this opportunity to let our community know that I will be taking leave for Term 2. During this time, the school will be very well supported, with Ms Kelli Russell stepping into the role of Acting Principal, alongside our experienced and dedicated leadership team. Mr Tristan Russell will also be stepping into an acting Assistant Principal role and Ms Meg Dargen will take on his Leading Teacher Curriculum responsibilities and join the leadership team. I have every confidence in their leadership and know that the school will continue to run smoothly, with the same strong focus on learning, wellbeing and community that we value so highly.

I understand that periods of change can sometimes bring uncertainty, but please be assured that this is a planned and well-considered transition. Our systems, structures and, most importantly, our people ensure continuity and stability. I look forward to returning in Term 3 and hearing about all that has been achieved in my absence.

We are also mindful that the broader context in which we are living continues to present challenges for many families. Cost of living pressures and ongoing concerns about fuel supply and global uncertainty can weigh heavily. In times like these, I am reminded of the importance of the values that underpin our school curiosity, compassion and community. These are not just words, but guiding principles that shape how we care for one another, how we respond to challenges, and how we continue to look forward with hope.

Our community is a strong one. We see this in the way families support each other, in the way our staff go above and beyond, and in the way our students show kindness and resilience each day. It is this collective strength that gives me great confidence and optimism, even in uncertain times.

Finally, I would like to remind families that our Annual General Meeting will be held on May 4. I warmly encourage you to attend. The AGM is an important opportunity to engage with the direction of our school, to celebrate our progress, and to contribute to our ongoing growth as a community.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. I wish all our families a safe and restful break and look forward to reconnecting next semester.

Heathmont Gazette

Curiosity, Compassion, Community

Issue 5 · 02 Apr 2026

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