Principal Update

Message from the Principal

This week has been an exceptionally busy one as our Year 7–9 students complete their final exams and assessment for the year. These final tasks mark the closing stages of Semester 2 reporting for 2025, and I want to acknowledge the focus, effort, and determination our junior students have shown during this important assessment period.

As we prepare for the end of term, I am pleased to share several key maintenance and infrastructure projects that will be undertaken across the Christmas break.

These projects reflect our ongoing commitment to improving learning environments and ensuring our facilities remain modern, functional, and supportive of high-quality teaching and learning.

Key projects scheduled for the Christmas break include:

Science Staffroom Refresh – A light-touch renovation to create a more connected, collaborative workspace for science staff.
Manual Arts Upgrades (B Block) – New flooring in the woodwork classrooms and internal repainting to modernise and enhance safety.
Digital Innovation & eSports Classroom – Installation of new media screens in a V Block classroom to support our expanding eSports program and digital innovation offerings.
Handball Court Resurfacing – Our popular courts adjacent to Perry’s (the tuckshop) will receive a complete resurfacing with a durable tennis-court–style surface.
Guttering Replacement – Continued facility maintenance across key buildings.
Library Mural Extension – Expansion of the library mural to showcase our school values and create a vibrant focal point for the entrance.
Oval Enhancements – Removal of the rugby posts to improve field use and allow for more flexible lunchtime football and recreation.

You may have also noticed the Ministerial Designation notice displayed on the fence near the old A Block building. This relates to our updated School Master Plan, shared with the P&C and staff last year. The revised plan identifies two potential future building projects that would support expected enrolment growth. While this does not signify immediate funding or construction, it confirms the Department of Education’s long-term planning for the Balmoral SHS site. Community consultation on the Master Plan remains open until 24 December.

As mentioned in last week’s communication, enrolments for Year 7 in 2027 are now open. Our transition program will again feature a series of experiences beginning in Term 2, designed to support connection, preparedness, and confidence for students joining us from a wide range of primary schools. Families who have already expressed interest will receive updates directly, and we strongly encourage early enrolment applications to ensure full access to all transition opportunities.

Important Update: National Social Media Age Restrictions

The Australian Government has announced a significant legislative change that will impact all families. From 10 December 2025, age restrictions will apply across specified social media platforms, preventing children under the age of 16 from creating or maintaining an account.

The eSafety Commissioner is leading implementation and describes the change as a delay rather than a ban, offering young people more time to develop safe and healthy digital habits before engaging with major online platforms.

Age restrictions will apply to platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitch, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and others. A complete list is available on the eSafety Commissioner’s website. The Department of Education has created self-paced courses for staff and students to understand the new restrictions.

We will continue to provide families with information and guidance throughout 2026 to support safe, positive digital engagement for our students.

Regards,

Timothy Barraud

Principal