Deputy Principal 

Opportunity and Wellbeing 

This week in Assembly, Opportunity and Wellbeing was our theme.  I wanted to share my address made to the students:

Good morning everyone,

Last week, Mrs Robertson challenged you to take risks—to step outside your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Today, I want to talk about opportunity, and how having the courage to take risks can open doors you never imagined.

Opportunities are everywhere. Sometimes, they come to us unexpectedly, and other times, we have to seek them out actively. But one thing is certain — opportunities are only valuable if we are brave enough to take them. Whether trying a new sport, applying for a leadership role, or simply speaking up in class, the risks we take can shape our future.

Shortly, we’ll hear from Abby Lazzari, who will introduce the Live for Life Program, and Harry McDonald and Amelie Hiscock, who will talk about the Young Leaders Program — two incredible opportunities that could have a lasting impact on your journey.

But opportunity isn’t just about programs or achievements—it’s also about looking after yourself and those around you. In our school, there are many opportunities for support when it comes to mental health and wellbeing. There is a beautiful saying that resonates with me: "Speak up even when your voice is shaking."

If you know something is wrong, if you see someone who isn’t being treated with kindness, or if you need to support yourself — be courageous enough to take that risk. Seek out the people and resources that are here to help. You are never alone. Speak up.

So, as you go through this week, I challenge you to be open to opportunities. Take a risk. Say yes to something new. Speak up when it matters. Because in taking those risks, you might just find an opportunity that changes everything.

headspace and stymie

Students were then reminded about the new headspace facility in Hamilton and were shown a platform called “Stymie” which supports adolescents in reporting any harm they are seeing online or in person. Reports are anonymous and notifications are responded to immediately. I encourage you to have a look at their platform. There is an excellent parent information section: stymie.com.au

The Role Of A Lifetime

I would also like to thank a wonderful parent who recently told me about a new series on ABC iView titled “The Role Of A Lifetime.” It is a very interesting and informative series that supports parents in tackling issues like mobile phone usage, gaming and risk-taking behaviour. Its excellent!  The Role Of A Lifetime : ABC iview