Student Engagement and Wellbeing

Term 2 is always a very challenging term for students and staff with the short, cold and wet days, and when you add an extra week to the mix 11 weeks (instead of 10), it was pleasing to see everyone dig deep to get through to the end. Everyone has earned a well-deserved break! 

This term, we introduced Karen Anderson as Acting Principal for Term 2 while Jason undertook a role at the Victorian Schools Building Authority (VSBA). Karen will continue in the role for term 3 and we look forward to continuing our work with her to improve student outcomes across the school. 

Student leadership camp

Early this term, our student leaders attended camp at the Victorian Sailing School in Geelong. The aim of the camp was to build social connections with each other and expand their teamwork skills. Students focused on their communication and interpersonal skills, whilst focusing on self-management and working in a team in real life scenarios, including learning to sail a boat and the multiple roles this involves. It was great to see the positive group dynamics that were displayed by the students which contributed to an extremely successful camp for all involved. We look forward to the student’s positive contributions to the school throughout the year.

Student Leaders:

Year 10 - William, Brodie, Judd & Izzi

Year 11 - Ryleigh, Juliette, Sam, Sireen & Nikita

Year 12 - Calista, Cooper, Brianna & Laoura

Outstanding attendance

The DET motto for education is ‘Everyday counts.’ Students that attend school more often will have greater educational outcomes, and this is why we are so diligent in following up absences and working with families to support attendance. At our recent assembly, it was pleasing to see a large number of students get recognised for their outstanding attendance during the term both at PLSC and their chosen VET courses. 

Academic

Staff and students have worked hard during the last few weeks to deliver and complete the work requirements for Semester 1. It has been great to see the classrooms busy and students using time outside of class to complete outstanding work tasks. Students that have been able to catch up should be proud of their efforts and bring the positive work habits with them for Semester 2.  

Looking ahead

In Term 3, the school will be looking at improving punctuality to school. Punctuality is an important skill to display both at school and in the workplace. Arriving at school on time ensures that student’s are ready to learn and have the opportunity to engage fully in their education. Homegroup time will be structured to allow students an opportunity to hear important messages related to their school day, complete any necessary tasks and generally prepare themselves for the day ahead. Students will also have the opportunity to engage in challenges during homegroup for the opportunity to win individual rewards. On top of that, the class with the best punctuality throughout the term will also be rewarded with a free class lunch. 

I hope everyone has a well-earned, safe and restful break and is able to stay warm during this extremely cold start to winter.