Assistant Principal (VM, 9/10) Report 

Report from Assistant 

Principal Travis Mcintosh

Middle School Report

We have now reached the halfway mark of Term Three; the days are getting longer and the weather in the past week is giving us a touch of hopefully what’s to come when spring hits.  With the improvements in weather, it’s great to see the students outside and being active, utilising the great outdoor spaces that Westall SC has to offer. 

As you are aware the schools’ values are based around 4 key themes: care for your school, care for others, care for yourself and care for your learning. I was fortunate enough to see 2 great examples of care for your school and care for others when Year 10 students Christos Kottis and Terrance Teariki took it upon themselves to come in to the school over the holiday break and assist with painting and moving equipment in the upstairs mezzanine of the sports centre in preparation for the gym upgrade, which is due to be completed by next Wednesday the 21st August. 

Both boys took the initiative to reach out over the break and offer their assistance which I gladly accepted. I was extremely impressed with their willingness to help and there was a real sense of pride and achievement when they had completed the work. Both boys are keen gym users so will now doubt enjoy the benefits when the new equipment arrives. 

Current Gym Progress in the sport centre 

Old equipment:

The painting of the new space:

With the new gym upgrade and the focus this week on wellbeing, I thought I would highlight the benefits of physical activity on both our mental and emotional wellbeing.

Mental and Emotional Benefits

1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Physical activity helps lower levels of the body's stress hormones, such as cortisol, and stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.
2. Improved Mood: Regular exercise can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety by increasing the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
3. Enhanced Cognitive Function: Exercise improves blood flow to the brain, supporting cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and decision-making.
4. Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence: Achieving fitness goals can boost self-esteem and confidence, providing a sense of accomplishment.
5. Better Social Interaction: Group exercises or team sports can improve social interaction and foster a sense of community and belonging.
6. Greater Resilience to Stress: Regular physical activity can make people more resilient to stress, helping them manage life's challenges more effectively.

Overall Well-Being

1. Enhanced Energy Levels: Regular exercise increases energy levels by improving cardiovascular efficiency and overall stamina.
2. Longevity: Studies have shown that regular physical activity can extend life expectancy by reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Improved Quality of Life: By improving physical health, mental well-being, and social connections, regular exercise contributes to a higher overall quality of life.

Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can have a profound impact on both your physical health and mental well-being, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

On another note, congratulations to Summer Luamanu who represented Victoria at the recent 2024 ASSRL Championships 17/18s Girls. Summer scored 3 tries playing at 5/8 with Victoria beating WA 26-0, and a loss to NSW CIS 14-6 and losing to eventual tournament champions Queensland 28 to 0.

The rule of 100:

If you spend 100 hours a year in any discipline,

(which is only 18 minutes a day)

You’ll be better than 95% of the world in that discipline. 

Consistency is everything!

Take care

Mr Travis Mcintosh

Middle School Acting Assistant Principal (VM, VPC, VP -Yr 9/10)