Principal Report

A message from the Principal

Ms Nerina Pretlove

Each term, we do not think that we can pack more in and then we do! Today, being the last day, we had Channel 9 in the school filming our male and female Haka Warriors. They put on a fabulous show for the camera and spoke so well about the importance of the program and how it has built positive relationships, teamwork and leadership. This program would not happen if it was not for the partnership with PCYC and our teachers Head Teacher of HSIE, Ms Celeban and Year Adviser, Ms Elliott.

We acknowledged the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with a minute’s silence on assembly and reflected on her duty across the Commonwealth over the past 70 years following the announcement of her death.

Of course, at this time of the year we begin the long goodbye to Year 12, 2022. A new tradition was commenced this year with all the students of the school forming a guard of honour and our drummers leading them up to our large brass bell on the front gate. Each Year 12 student rang the bell to symbolise the last time the bell rang for them. There were lots of tears and laughter at the same time. There are still the exams, graduation and formal to go.

Week 6 next term marks Year 10 commencing their HSC studies as they begin to study in their first three subjects. It is an exciting and challenging time for them. We have high expectations for all of them, whether they are undertaking an academic, school to work or not sure of their post schooling destination pathway.

As the whole school moves over to 2023 in Week 6 Term 4, we are celebrating the end of 2022 in Week 5. We have a week of activities that are focussed on cognitive development, enhancing wellbeing and team building. Students will participate in excursions, attend workshops with external providers and many intellectual challenges across the week. All students are expected to participate in all the activities. On the Monday, we will be hosting our Annual Presentation Evening at Blacktown Workers Club and Tuesday night will be the Year 12 Graduation followed by their formal.

We were thrilled to welcome our new Year 12 student leaders for 2023 - Captains: Cody and Misia. Vice Captains: Aidan and Naznin who were all presented with their badges on assembly.

For the first time since Covid struck, we had our Merit Assembly this week. It was fantastic to see so many students achieve Silver and Bronze Certificates in recognition of their respectful, trustworthy and motivated behaviours. I have also signed many letters from teachers recognising students’ academic success over the recent exams. Keep up the good work!

I hope that you enjoy reading this term’s newsletter which is really showcasing the amazing things happening across our school and in our faculties. A safe break to all.

Nerina Pretlove

Principal