From the Principal

Welcome Back!

It was fantastic to return to the College and see our Year 11’s ready and rearing to make the most of their 7-week Term 4. There is a very positive vibe around the College as everyone slips back into their routines and programs. Some of our General Pathway Year 12’s are coming back on various days to finalise any outstanding course requirements over the next couple of weeks, with our ATAR’s set to return Week 2 to focus on their WACE Exam preparation. 

I would like to congratulate and thank our students for a positive finish to Term 3 and also thank the staff who gave up their time to run various activities and events to help celebrate our Year 12’s departure. I am very much looking forward to Valedictory on the 12th November. Although we have been very lucky in WA with our liberties and freedoms, schools are still required to maintain Phase 5 physical distancing where possible, hence the cap on attendees once again this year. Furthermore, we received positive feedback in regards to shortening the length of last year's ceremony by having a separate ceremony for the Year 11’s where we presented their scholarship and awards. This also allowed us to direct our whole focus on the Year 12’s at the Valedictory Ceremony! The Year 11 Ceremony will be held on the last day of term (Friday 26th November) which will be followed by an Open Board Meeting at 1pm.

A gentle reminder that Term 4 is a crucial time for all Year 11's and they are required to attend until the end of week 7 to ensure they maintain their Course and Certificate requirements and stay on track to achieve their Certificate Qualifications and WACE. 

COVID-19 Vaccination Program

Our College has been identified as a priority for the COVID-19 vaccination in-reach program being delivered by the WA Country Health Service. Vaccinations will be administered on-site to students (parent consent required). Family members of students are also encouraged to attend our in-reach clinic. Below is the letter form the Chief Health Officer regarding the program and links to the VaccinateWA register and the parent consent form that is required to be completed for your child to be vaccinated. We kindly ask that these are provided to the front office ASAP in preparation for the vaccine rollout.

I am awaiting confirmation from the Department of Health of the dates of the in-reach clinic.

I encourage all members of the community to take the opportunity to be vaccinated through community clinics, GPs and pharmacies where possible. Walk-in clinics are available for students aged 16 years and over until Thursday 14 October. No appointment is needed, and school staff are also able to access these clinics. For more information on locations and times, please visit Healthy WA. Please also see additional information regarding vaccination programs in the 'College News' section.

Term 3 College Board Meeting

I wanted to provide you an update on some outcomes from last term's College Board Meeting in regards to incoming changes for 2022:

• The College timetable will be amended for an earlier finish each Friday to accommodate students and families who travel long distances for weekend leave and to reduce time spent on the roads at dusk/in the dark
• Students’ first name and initial will be embroidered on their high vis shirts and jumpers and phased in next year with incoming Year 11’s uniform and any new purchases for 12’s in 2022. Returning students who would like a new shirt/jumper with the embroidery are encouraged to place their order ASAP
• The College Dress Code has been updated and finalised in regards to earrings, haircuts and girls socks (updated details in the 'College News' section)
• The 'Bring Your Own Device' (BYOD) program (student-supplied laptops) will be phased in with next year's Yr 11's and will be optional for next year's Yr 12's (details in the 'College News' section)
• The College will be implementing a Remote Pilot Licence Endorsed Course (accredited drone licence). Drones are evolving in the Agricultural space and I believe this will be a valuable opportunity for many of our students

Associate Principal - Welcome Paul Beecham

A very warm welcome to Paul Beecham who is coming to us from Thornlie SHS. Paul is currently a member of their Senior Leadership team in the capacity of Manager of Operations. Paul has an extensive history of leadership roles in both the metro and regional areas going back 20-plus years including Head of Department (Health and Physical Education), Deputy of Welfare, School Improvement Project Manager and Senior School Associate Principal. Paul  will commence Thursday of Week 2 where he will work alongside Jo Moffat for a handover on Thursday and Friday. 

Thank you again to Jo for her contribution to our great College over the course of this year and all the best at Safety Bay SHS.

Esperance Show 

This Friday and Saturday, myself and Kristine Van will be at the Cunderdin Ag College stand at the Esperance Show. If you are around please do not hesitate to pop in and say hello!

Wishing you all a safe and relaxing weekend ahead.

Matt