Principal Update
Message from the Principal
Principal’s Update – Welcome to Term 3
Welcome back to all students, staff, and families for the start of Term 3. I hope the winter break was a chance for rest, reflection, and reconnection.
This week marks the official release of Semester 1 student reports. These will be communicated directly to families. I want to thank all parents and carers for your patience and understanding as the Department of Education worked to resolve recent Gmail-related restrictions—this central update has now been implemented, ensuring smoother communication moving forward.
Term 3 is already shaping up to be a dynamic and engaging term, beginning with a series of events that highlight both our school spirit and our commitment to cultural inclusion.
Athletics Carnival – Get Ready!
Our Athletics Carnival kicks off this Wednesday, with our major inter-house competition day featuring track and field events that will see students representing their houses with pride, energy, and teamwork. An additional day of track and field events will follow on Monday 21 July, providing further opportunities for students to shine in individual and team events.
We look forward to seeing our students compete, participate, and celebrate success—both personal and collective.
NAIDOC Week Assembly – Celebrating Culture and Country
Next week we proudly host our annual NAIDOC Week Assembly, a significant event on our calendar that honours the histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This assembly reflects our school’s ongoing commitment to cultural recognition and global competence, fostering deeper understanding and respect across our community.
Welcome Itami Senior College, Study Tour – Japan Comes to Balmoral
This week we also welcomed students from Itami, Japan, as part of our Itami Study Tour. These visiting students will be with us for the next two weeks, offering a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange, global friendship, and language immersion. Thank you to our host families and staff supporting this rich learning experience. We encourage all students to engage with our guests and embrace the power of global connection.
A Moment of Reflection – Year 12 Class of 2025 Formal
As we begin this new term, I’d like to reflect on a powerful and emotional moment that closed Term 2: our Year 12 Formal. The energy, unity, and sheer joy from the graduating class was infectious—from the dazzling lights and music to the genuine pride shown by students and staff alike. As I referenced to the Year 12s, “Tonight is more than just a formal—it’s a celebration of everything you’ve overcome and everything you’ve become as young individuals”.
The Class of 2025 began high school in 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. They adapted to lockdowns, remote learning, and online collaboration—developing a level of digital competence and resilience that will serve them for life.
Many thanks to Mr Sloan, their Year Coordinator, and to the many staff who attended this event, plus the wonderful student organising committee. It was a very special moment indeed. Thank you to all the parents and families who attended this pre-event.
Timothy Barruad,
Principal