From the Principal - Staffing News

I take this opportunity to wish all of the students a safe and enjoyable (and very well-deserved) mid-year school holiday break from the last day of term next Friday, 28th June. It has been a very positive term, and half of the 2024 is already over! Term 3 commences Monday 15th July.

In week 10, we implemented a new, broader approach to examinations. Thanks to parents and carers for your support of this change. By implementing exams in the younger years of high school, we are not only enhancing our students' learning experiences but also equipping them with essential skills for their future academic and personal endeavours.

Some potential benefits of these exams include:

1. Development of Exam Techniques: Introducing exams at a younger age helps students develop effective study habits and exam techniques, reducing anxiety and building confidence.
2. Preparation for Senior Years: Familiarity with exam processes and expectations prepares students for the rigours of senior secondary education and beyond.
3. Enhanced Learning Outcomes: Continuous assessment (noting our existing commitment to this approach more broadly) encourages consistent study habits and reinforces knowledge retention, leading to improved overall academic performance.

New Leading Teacher appointments

I am pleased to announce the appointments of Meryl Herman and Jess Langdon as Leading Teachers (Learning Innovation & Improvement), effective from the start of Term 3. Meryl and Jess's appointment complements the other significant leadership roles in Teaching and Learning held by Peter Breukers (Curriculum & Teaching Practice Leader) and Katelyn Sheather (Learning Enhancement & Inclusion Leader). This expanded team with be led by Sheri Parkhouse (Assistant Principal: Excellence in Teaching & Learning).

Meryl Herman is well known to our community as our current Humanities Learning Area Leader and High Abilities Practice Leader. Since joining the High School in 2008, she has held various key positions, including Leading Teacher (Curriculum, Assessment & Reporting) and Acting Assistant Principal (Teaching and Learning). 

Jess Langdon is presently the Leading Teacher (Curriculum: International Baccalaureate) at Albert Park College (Department of Education) in Melbourne. Her previous roles included that of Extension and Enrichment Leader (SEAL Coordinator) and Head of English at Albert Park College. Jess has also taught in the UK. She will be relocating to Wangaratta at the end of Term 2 and will commence her role here in Week 3 of Term 3.

These appointments represent an exciting opportunity for our school as we continue our journey of improvement and growth. Meryl and Jess bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and innovative practices that will significantly contribute to our ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of teaching and learning. Meryl's deep understanding of our school community and her proven leadership in curriculum development and high abilities practice will provide continuity and stability. Jess's diverse experience with the International Baccalaureate and her background in both local and international education will bring fresh perspectives and new ideas. We are confident that their combined expertise will help us achieve our strategic goals and further our mission to provide an outstanding educational experience for all students.

*Images in the top banner from left to right:

Students on the recent Year 10 excursion to the Holocaust Museum;

Year 11s and 12s participating in the Model UN event;

Students in humanities class.

Dave Armstrong

Executive Principal