From the Principal's Desk

It has been an incredibly busy term so far at Nossal, but one of celebration. Student learning and achievement has been showcased across the school, and I am delighted to share some of the many positive highlights. 

But before I do, I would like to acknowledge the heavy study load many students are facing at this time of year. Whilst, yes, study is important, so is wellbeing. In fact, very little learning can occur if we are not looking after our wellbeing. Eating regularly, exercising, taking breaks and enjoying positive social interactions are all essential to maintaining our wellbeing, thereby maximising our capacity to learn.  

Attitude To School Survey

The annual Attitude to School Survey was conducted on Wednesday 21 May, providing invaluable insight into the student experience here at Nossal. This data is used to determine priorities and actions to continually improve Nossal High School. We were very pleased with the participation rate and look forward to sharing the insights gained.

Morrisby Testing

Our Year 9 students completed their Morrisby test, and the interviews were very well attended by families. The Morrisby test helps students to understand their strengths and potential and guides them towards their best career, subject and future educational choices. We would like to thank all our families for supporting our students as they continue to explore their future opportunities. We would also like to acknowledge Ms Clarissa Jaques and Ms Suzanne Alley for their ensuring  that the events ran smoothly.

Nossal Week 

Last week I celebrated my first Nossal Week. The student leaders, supported by the tireless efforts of Ms Fiona De Zylva, put together a fantastic program to celebrate all things Nossal.

The week began with the successful SRC assembly, allowing the student body to develop a greater understanding of the leadership opportunities here at Nossal and the benefits of being involved in the community. Over the week, a wide range of activities were held. The five days featured staff vs student competitions, dance performances, a short story competition, a jewellery stall, fairy floss sales and musical performances from out talented ensembles. It was wonderful to see our student clubs and societies spotlighted throughout the week. 

A personal highlight was my first Nossal Lip Sync Battle featuring many of our talented staff and students. I would like to make special mention of the incredible dance moves of Mr Kyle Phillips, a clear crowd favourite.

Unfortunately, this will be the last time I will get to see Kyle perform as he is moving on to other opportunities. On behalf of the Nossal community I would like to wish Kyle well with his future ventures.

A moment of gratitude

One of the features of Nossal Week was the involvement of many of our student clubs and societies in the showcase of events. As we celebrate our students' enthusiastic embrace of every aspect of life at the school, we would also like to acknowledge the fact that these Clubs and Societies, like many of the other enriching elements of our school life, are supported in part through the contributions of those parents who have been able and willing to commit to their parent contributions (i.e. fees). Without this very concrete assistance, events like this would not be possible.

Sporting News

As you will read later in the newsletter, our sports teams again have represented the school with pride across several events, competing at both regional and state level. Our AFL, netball and tennis teams have all done incredibly well and a number of our students delivered an impressive performance at the Division Cross Country carnival.

Debating

Our debating teams continue to dominate in their field. At the last event, 11 out of 13 teams won their competition. We would like to recognise the tireless efforts of Mr Bird and congratulate all students involved.

Autumn Concert

I had the absolute pleasure of attending the Autumn Music Concert and was astounded at level of talent here at Nossal High School. The Music Captains put together a wide-ranging program, from trash percussion using reclaimed items, to mustachioed flautists, to a symphony performed by a full orchestra. The quality of each performance was exceptional! I would like to congratulate the Music Captains, Instrumental Teachers, Music Director Ms Clare Budd and all students involved on an incredible evening.

Opportunities to get involved!

As we reflect on the different ways our parents can and do support the school, including through their attendance at our various performing arts events, it seems an appropriate moment to celebrate the support of our parent volunteers during our recent Duke of Edinburgh adventure journey. You can read about the journey which was held in May and, if you're interested in getting involved, perhaps volunteer to attend a second, similar event later in the year.

Upcoming Events

The current pace of the term will continue in the coming weeks, with a number of events to which I would like to draw to your attention.

• Year 12 Formal on Friday 6 June
• Public holiday on Monday 9 June
• Curriculum Day (i.e. no classes) on Monday 16 June
• VCAA GAT exam on Tuesday 17 June

Please note that on the day of the GAT (17th June), students in Year 9 and the bulk of the students in Year 10 (i.e. those not completing the GAT) will undertake an asynchronous digital delivery day, and will not be expected on campus.

Other upcoming events for this term include the School Production and the Career Conversation online. We are also looking forward to our Careers Expo in early Term 3.

Further information regarding these events will be communicated shortly.

Ffion Bowles

Assistant Principal