Principal's Report
As we head into Term 4 the days start getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and this means that our Year 12 Students are looking towards the end of their formal classes and getting ready for their end of year exams. Their preparations started last term with students undertaking practice exams during the school holidays in all subjects. It was pleasing to see that students approaching these exams with a positive attitude and being well prepared. This is the attitude we expect from the students, and it also means that the learning experience of practicing the exams is more impactful.
Over the past week and a half, students have had their final classes and are beginning the process of reflecting on and celebrating their school years. Students have been enjoying dress-up days and are looking forward to their end of year breakfast, their last formal assembly and leaving Brentwood through a guard of honour from staff before attending the Valedictory Evening on Thursday October 17 when students will ‘cross the stage’ marking the completion of Secondary School in front of their family and friends.
As a school we look forward to reflecting on and celebrating their achievements with them.
Japan Exchange
During the final week of Term 3 and first few days of the school holidays 13 students and 3 staff visited our sister school in Japan, Ono Senior High School. Brentwood and Ono Senior High have been visiting each other for more than 20 years and have a strong relationship with each other.
Our students were able to immerse themselves in Japanese culture as they stayed with host families and attended school each day. In addition, students were able to see some stunning sights and experience Tokyo towards the end of their trip.
We would like to thank Mr Kwong, Ms Wang and Ms Ardley for leading the exchange program in this year.
We are looking forward to welcoming Ono Senior High School back to Brentwood in 2025!
Sport
Congratulations to the Brentwood Athletics Team who won the Eastern Metropolitan Zone Athletics Carnival last week. This is an outstanding achievement and shows the passion and dedication of our sports students and staff. We wish all of the students all the very best when they compete at the State championships later this month.
New Hardcourts
Our new hardcourts are nearly completed and ready for hand over to the school. We are looking forward to opening them later this term for students to use during breaks and new learning spaces for the Health and PE Faculty.
Arts and Technology Exhibition and Spring Music Concert
On Tuesday October 15 the Arts and Technology Faculty, along with the student led Art Executive and Music Captains led a fantastic evening showcasing the incredibly talented students at Brentwood. The Senior Art works were exceptional, and the music performances were of a very high standard. I would like to acknowledge the staff involved for their passion and going above and beyond to support the Arts and Technology program at Brentwood.
A special mention to Michelle V in Year 12 who was awarded the Principal’s Award for her incredible art piece ‘Omnibus Memoirs’.
VALE Daniel Mackay
Last week the school was informed of the sad news that Daniel Mackay died unexpectedly whilst on leave overseas this year. Daniel Mackay was a valued member of our school for 22 years and much loved by students, staff and parents. His contribution as a teacher, leader of Arts and Technology and volunteer in the co-curricular programs such as school productions has been significant. Daniel's natural ability to connect with people enabled him to build positive relationships with his students and peers that have endured many years. He has not only nurtured their creative talents but helped them grow as people. Whilst Daniel will be forever missed, it is these relationships that will never be forgotten and a lasting legacy he has left behind.
Daniel’s passing has impacted staff and students over the past week, and I would like to thank and acknowledge our school community for their support and understanding towards each other and the school during this challenging time.
John Ballagh
Principal