Parent Update

Principal's Message

Dear Parents and Carers 

Celebrating Our Education Assistants

This week, we proudly celebrated Education Assistant (EA) Appreciation Week—a time to recognise the incredible work of our EAs who support student learning, wellbeing, and inclusion every day at Applecross SHS.

 

 

Our EAs are an essential part of our school community. Whether working one-on-one with students, assisting in classrooms, or helping to create safe and engaging learning environments, their dedication and care make a profound difference.

 

Throughout the week, we’ve seen many moments that highlight their impact:

  • Calm and consistent support for students with diverse needs
  • Collaboration with teachers to enhance learning outcomes
  • A warm presence that helps students feel seen, heard, and valued

 

We are incredibly grateful for their contributions and encourage families to join us in thanking our EAs for the vital role they play in our students’ success.

🎉 Congratulations to Our Student Services Team

We are thrilled to share that Rex and the Student Services team have been selected to participate in the ACTION Respect Secondary program—an initiative aimed at strengthening Respectful Relationships Education (RRE) in WA secondary schools.

 

This program, delivered by Starick Services and supported by the Australian Government, promotes a whole-of-school approach to building respectful, inclusive, and safe learning environments.

 

Key Features of the Program:

  • Embedding respectful relationships education across school culture and policy
  • Promoting gender equality to prevent gender-based violence
  • Providing professional development for teachers
  • Supporting delivery of the WA Curriculum
  • Focusing on boys and young men to challenge harmful stereotypes
  • Encouraging partnerships with families and the wider community

 

Congratulations to the team on this well-deserved recognition!

📅 Recent School Highlights  

It’s been a vibrant and engaging start to September, with several events that have brought our school community together:

  • Wear It Purple Day – 29 August: Last Friday, we proudly celebrated 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗜𝘁 𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘆 — a national movement that began in 2010 to ensure no young person ever feels invisible or alone because of who they are or how they identify. This year’s theme, “𝗕𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗩𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀, 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀,” was all about amplifying the voices of LGBTQIA+ youth and creating a safe, inclusive space for everyone. To mark the day, our amazing hospitality students whipped up delicious cupcakes, milkshakes, brownies, and ice cream.  DJ Chips brought the vibes at recess with music, lawn games, and bracelet making.
  • Ancient History Guest Speaker – 2 September: Year 11 & 12 students enjoyed a fascinating session with Egyptologist Dr Julien Cooper, who brought ancient history to life with his insights and expertise.
  • Year 11 UniReady Parent Presentation – 3 September: Parents attended an informative session on university pathways, gaining valuable insights into how to support their children’s academic journey.

 

Thank you to all staff, students, and families who contributed to these events. Your involvement strengthens our school culture and enriches the learning experience for all.

 

Supporting Our Year 12 Students – Final Weeks Ahead

As our Year 12 students enter the final stretch of their schooling journey, including their mock exams and final assessments, we want to take a moment to acknowledge their hard work, resilience, and growth.

 

This is a significant time for them—filled with anticipation, reflection, and a mix of emotions. We are incredibly proud of this cohort and the way they have approached their final year with maturity, determination, and a strong sense of community.

 

We encourage all families to continue offering support, reassurance, and encouragement during these final weeks. Whether it’s helping them manage their time, creating a calm study environment, or simply reminding them how proud you are—your support makes a world of difference.

 

At Applecross SHS, we are here to walk alongside them. Our staff are committed to guiding and supporting each student as they prepare for their next chapter.

 

Let’s continue to cheer them on as they finish strong.

Father’s Day – Celebrating Our Applecross SHS Families

As we approach Father’s Day this Sunday, we take a moment to celebrate the wonderful fathers, father figures, and mentors within our parent community.

 

This is a special time to honour the love, guidance, and support you provide to your children—not only at home, but in the way you help shape their values, confidence, and aspirations. Whether through quiet encouragement, shared adventures, or simply being present, your influence is deeply appreciated.

 

We know many of you will be spending the weekend with your families—making memories, sharing laughs, and enjoying the special role you play in your child’s life. Thank you for all that you do.

 

From all of us at Applecross SHS, we wish you a joyful, relaxing, and meaningful Father’s Day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Angie Thomas, A/Principal