Deputy Principals Report
A Message from the Deputy Principals
Year 12 - 2026
Our Year 12 2026 students have made a wonderful start to their final year of school. We began the term with our HSC Information Evening which was well attended by students and parents. This event was a great opportunity to meet informally with teachers and receive information about policies and procedures that relate to both school expectations and the NESA requirements for the Higher School Certificate. Year 12 have adopted a positive approach to the HSC courses and as they have just completed their first assessment period during Weeks 7-9, they have also been making decisions about any adjustments to the HSC pattern of study.
Many of the year group have taken on leadership roles for 2026 with great enthusiasm. This has included the captaincy team who have already stepped forward to host a range of school events and the recently announced House Team captains and vice captains who are looking forward to the opportunity to grow the House Team program. It is exciting to see students embrace these positions to enthusiastically lead their peers.
Fundraising efforts have officially begun to support the Year 12 formal, and the first event is set to celebrate Valentine’s Day! Students have already begun selling roses and songs to spread the love. The leadership team also had an activity during the lunch break on Multicultural day which saw students paying to throw wet sponges at their favourite teachers. These fundraising activities not only help raise funds but also bring the year group together, fostering teamwork and creating lasting memories of their final school year.
I have truly enjoyed supporting the students this year and have had the privilege of getting to know a wonderful group of young people. I am excited about what 2026 holds for them and look forward to being a part of their ongoing journey and growth.
Year 10
This year, our Year 10 students have experienced significant growth and achievement, culminating in a highly successful Formal at Camden Lakeside. The event celebrated their milestones and was a special recognition of those who upheld our school’s expectations. We extend our gratitude to Mrs Borland for expertly organising this memorable evening.
As part of their preparation for senior years, students recently participated in a transition program that fostered independence, leadership, and essential skills such as time management and goal setting. This valuable experience provided insight into the challenges and responsibilities they will encounter in Years 11 and 12.
Additionally, the majority of students have successfully completed their HSC Minimum Standards Tests in Reading, Writing, and Numeracy. Those yet to meet the requirements will have further opportunities to sit these assessments throughout 2026, as passing all three is essential for obtaining the Higher School Certificate.
We are proud of the maturity and dedication our Year 10 cohort has demonstrated this year. Their proactive approach ensures they are well-prepared for the challenges and successes that lie ahead.
Year 9
This term, our Year 9 students have actively participated in a number of whole school activities. Most notably was the amazing talents on display in the showcase assembly for Multicultural Day with the Pacifica and Bollywood dance groups and the dancers who performed as part of the NSW School Spectacular. They all showed dedication through long hours of rehearsals to represent themselves and our school with pride.
Year 9 students are actively exploring possibilities beyond the school grounds, with even more of them successfully completing their White Card course. Next year, these students will be prepared to take part in work experience, and some may even pursue apprenticeship or traineeship opportunities.
Throughout this year, I am very proud of how Year 9 have explored new elective subjects, developed new skills, and built friendships that will support them in the years to come. Year 10 is going to bring even more exciting challenges and opportunities for growth, and I’m confident they will continue to thrive and achieve great things.
Year 8
Year 8 students have been involved in a wide range of whole school activities throughout Term 4. This has included displaying their musical, creative and dramatic talents at the Year 7 and 8 CAPA evening, competing in the under 15s Netball CHSSA State titles, dancing up a storm at School Spectacular, participating in the AFL gala day and completing their White Card course in preparation for work experience opportunities next year. It is wonderful to see so many students embracing the opportunities to participate in activities that showcase their passions and interests. These activities help them to develop important life skills, such as teamwork, collaboration and commitment.
Year 8 has had a great year, marked by significant growth in maturity and decision making skills as the year has progressed. In 2026, they will move into Stage 5, where their curriculum will expand to include a variety of elective subjects, allowing them to explore new interests and talents. I look forward to continuing to support and guide these students in 2026.
Year 7
Our Year 7 students have settled in wonderfully this year, embracing the challenges and opportunities of high school life. They have shown remarkable adaptability and enthusiasm, quickly forming friendships and embracing the school’s values and culture. As they prepare to move confidently into Year 8, we acknowledge their commitment to learning and personal growth.
All Year 7 students have now completed their final assessments for the year, and reports will be issued soon. Many students will be eligible for awards, which will be presented at the upcoming Recognition Assembly and Presentation Evening.
This year, Year 7 students demonstrated leadership by running technology workshops for staff during the “Brekkie with a Techie” sessions, displaying their tech skills and fostering collaboration between students and staff. They also showcased their talents through performances at the Year 7 and 8 CAPA Night.
Beyond these highlights, Year 7 students have been actively involved in a wide range of school activities, including sports, creative and performing arts, agriculture, and academics, such as collaboratively solving challenging maths problems during break times. Their enthusiastic participation has helped them embed themselves deeply within the EHS community, building friendships and a strong sense of belonging.
Support Unit
As we approach the end of another incredible year, the Support Unit is proud to share our Term 4 achievements and celebrate the amazing talents and efforts of our students. We are thrilled to announce our 4th place finish at the Interschools Bowling Competition at the state level. Congratulations to Tristyn, Jake, Erana, and Dante for their outstanding performance and teamwork—your dedication truly shone through!
A special congratulations to Ethan, who received the prestigious Deadly Award at the Aboriginal Achievement Awards. This is an outstanding achievement and a proud moment for our community. We also congratulate Flynn for being chosen by our local Aboriginal artist, Michael Fardon. Flynn’s artwork has been selected to create a unique Elderslie High School Aboriginal art piece, which will be featured on promotional materials, signage, and social media. This is an exciting recognition of her talent and cultural contribution.
Thank you to Jack and Ethan for joining Mr Grimes in our recent EHS podcast episode, where they shared insights about the Support Unit and inclusive education. Your voices help highlight the importance of inclusion and celebrate the diversity within our school community. We congratulate Lily on her beautiful Indian dance performance at the recent Multicultural Day, showcasing her courage and commitment to learning something new.
This term, we have also completed our annual transition program for Year 6 students joining Year 7 next year. It’s been wonderful to support our new students as they prepare to become part of the Support Unit in 2026.
We are excited to announce that the Support Unit will be expanding to an 8th class in 2026. This will include 7 Autism classes and 1 multi-categorical class, allowing us to cater to even more students and provide comprehensive support tailored to their needs.
Families, please keep an eye on your mailboxes soon for letters informing students of their class placements, teachers, and SLSOs for 2026.
Thank you all for your continued support and commitment to making the Support Unit a vibrant, inclusive, and successful part of Elderslie High School.
Final Words for 2025:
As we come to the close of another busy school year, we want to take a moment to celebrate all that our students have achieved throughout 2025. It has been a time of growth, discovery, and new challenges—and each of our students has shown resilience, creativity, and determination throughout the year.
Wishing all of our families a safe, happy, and restful break.
Mrs Siope - Deputy Principal Years 7 and 10
Ms Crossingham - Deputy Principal Years 8 and 11
Mrs Amos - Deputy Principal Years 9 and 12
Mrs Robinson - Deputy Principal Inclusion and Support