From the Acting Principal's Desk

As we reach the midpoint of the term, we find ourselves immersed in a variety of exciting activities and events. This week, our entire school community, from kindergarten to Year 12, gathered in the school Sports Centre for our Remembrance Day service. This significant occasion allows us to unite as a school and pay tribute to the men and women who have served our country.

During the assembly, we reminded students of the importance of Remembrance Day. We encouraged them to honour the memory of the fallen not only with words but through actions, by showing kindness, standing up for what is right, and working together to create a more peaceful world.

A particularly touching moment of the service was the flower tribute. Each Form class, starting with kindergarten and continuing through to Year 11, placed their floral tribute at the flagpole. This tradition not only honours the occasion but also highlights the unity of our school as everyone participates in this meaningful event.

I would like to extend a special mention to Arno (G10), who played the Last Post and Rouse beautifully despite having a broken hand, Ethan (G9), who performed the National Anthem with polished professionalism, and the four College 9 students, Isla, Annabelle, Ivy, and Aleksia, who delivered a moving historical address to the assembly after conducting thorough research.

In addition to our school service, members of our Cadet Unit, musicians, and vocalists supported the Remembrance Day services at Manly Dam and the Narrabeen Anzac Village, reflecting our school's ongoing commitment to community support. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this Remembrance Day a memorable and heartfelt occasion.

On Tuesday night, we celebrated one of the year's most anticipated events: the Class of 2025 Valedictory Dinner. This formal gathering brought together our graduating students, their parents, and staff members to reminisce about shared journeys, celebrate achievements, and cherish the fun times that have shaped their experience at Pittwater House.

It was a bittersweet moment as we bid farewell to several families who have seen multiple siblings graduate from our school. We also honoured 11 remarkable students who have been with us since their Pre-School days. Adding a touch of magic to the evening, we were entertained one last time by the incredible voices of Adele, Grace, and Estella.

Seeing our graduates in this final formal setting was a touching experience. It was an exceptional opportunity to reflect on the memories we've shared, the bonds we've formed, and the lasting impact this group has had on our school community. The special effort made by Dr. Hillier who visited from Melbourne to attend the event underscores its significance in our calendar.

As we progress through the term, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff who have supported the camps for Years 2 to 6, Year 8, and those preparing for the Year 9 camp next week. Additionally, I would like to publicly acknowledge our staff who are diligently marking examinations and assessments during this busy period, preparing for academic reporting, and getting ready for the 2026 classes. Furthermore, substantial programming efforts are underway to implement the new NESA Syllabus changes across various KLAs.

With the new social media age restrictions coming into effect on 10th December, students from Pre-Kindy through to Year 12 will be affected. Even our 16 to 18-year-olds may experience some initial challenges as companies implement age identification tools to comply with these regulations. The impact on our younger students will be particularly significant, and we hope that restricted access to these sites will positively influence their social and intellectual development during these formative years. Also, most importantly, assist in keeping them safe. We encourage parents and students to watch the short video explaining these new laws and their implications for children and young adults. The video link and further details can be found in the Student Wellbeing Update section of this HouseNews here.

As we move into the final stretch of Term 4, it's essential to emphasise the importance of staying focused and making the most of every learning opportunity. While we look forward to the end-of-term celebrations and the festive season, it's crucial to remember that our time at school goes beyond tests and reports. It’s about the growth and development that happens through each learning experience. Therefore, I urge everyone to finish the term strong. Consistent attendance remains vital, as learning continues, skills are honed, and each student is nurtured in their journey. Let’s ensure we make the most of these final weeks, staying engaged and committed to our educational goals.