Welcome back to HPSC

Welcome back to a new school year. We hope that everyone had a wonderful summer break and is ready to jump into another year of learning and growth.

As we embark on this new journey, we are excited to announce that we have made several updates and improvements to our facilities. New painting and carpet have been added to our Music classroom and instrumental practice rooms, several classrooms, and the Mabo House Office. Stage 3 building works has also commenced, with the first part focussing on the creation of a new Wellness Centre and Science facility.  Our aim is to provide a safe and stimulating environment for our students and staff, and we are confident that these changes will enhance the overall student learning and school pride.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of our commitment to creating a positive and inclusive school community. Whether you are a new or returning student or staff member, you are an important part of the HPSC family, and we encourage you to get involved in school events, programs, and activities.

I wish to welcome the following dedicated, passionate and committed staff to our community,

• Rafah Malaeb – English/Humanities Teacher
• Michelle Lau – Science/Maths, Leading Teacher - Learning Adjustments
• Leesha Naidoo – Science/Maths Teacher, Student Learning Leader - Hollows House Learning Leader
• Meg Beattie – Health/Physical Education Teacher, Student Learning Leader - Mabo House Learning Leader
• Caroline Grove – Visual Arts Teacher, Student Learning Leader - Mabo House Learning Leader
• Erene Karabourniotis – Food Studies Teacher
• Shay O'Grady – Business Studies/Commerce Teacher
• Mark Aracas – Business Studies/Commence Teacher
• Callum Jarrott – Performing Arts/English Teacher
• Ryan Evangelista – Music Teacher 

To make the transition back to school as smooth as possible, we have provided important information regarding policies, procedures, and expectations. These can be found in your student diary and clarified by the House offices. Please take a moment to review this information, and do not hesitate to reach out to your teachers or the school administration if you have any questions or concerns.

At HPSC, we love to empower students. Students at our college have more subject choices than many students from other schools. We want students to find and follow their passions. We believe that if students love what they do, they will attend school more often, leading to improved learning. We are constantly striving to improve our school and we welcome feedback. Students can speak to their SRC representatives, their House Administration teams, their Mentor teachers or classroom teachers. 

Last week, a tragic event occurred involving one of our students. The following is a copy of the script read by our SRC representatives, Michelle, Alison and Bryony. 

Last week, Eric Narann one of our year 7 students passed away. It is with a heavy heart that we stand here today to talk about the sudden and tragic death. He was a bright, kind, and quiet student, and the news of his passing has left us all in shock and disbelief.

Eric was a much-loved former student of River Gum Primary School. Eric’s passing has had a significant impact also on their learning community.

In the face of such a tragedy, it is natural for us to feel lost and confused, and to question why such a thing could happen to someone so young and full of life. But as a community, we must come together and support one another during this difficult time.

We would like to remind everyone that our Wellbeing Team has been and is available to anyone who needs support or help processing this difficult news. If you are feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope, please don't hesitate to reach out to them. Due to the Building works, they are temporarily located in E Block. 

We also want to extend my sincerest condolences to Eric’s family and loved ones. They are in our thoughts and prayers, and we will do everything we can to support them during this incredibly difficult time.

The Student Representative Council (SRC) have decided that to remember Eric and to support the family, this Thursday 9th February a casual clothes day. Students are asked to bring a gold coin, all money raised will go directly to support the family. We encourage students and staff to wear something yellow or red. Colours that help celebrate Eric’s life.

During this week’s Mentoring, SRC leaders read a statement remembering Eric, with a minute silence. A commemoration book for student reflections has been available this week. Thank you to all students for your compassion, empathy, and maturity. The commemoration books along with the funds from the Casual Clothes Day fundraiser held on Thursday 9th February will be handed to the family at the end of this week.

Next week, I am looking forward to our first Whole School Assembly. We have several special guests, including high achieving students from the graduating class of 2022. We will hear tips and strategies about setting goals and achieving excellence. We also have an African drummer performance, who will let students know how they can get involved. 

We look forward to a successful and memorable school year. Let's work together to make this year the best one yet!

As a community, we have a lot to be proud of. Thank you for continuing to support our college to become the school of first choice for local families.