From the Principal, Anne Ford

I believe that a key strength of our school community is the genuine care we show our students. I see this everyday through the nature of the interactions between staff and students, students and their siblings, older and younger students, and parents and their children.  When students are asked to extend a helping hand to a new student, it occurs. Many parents have commented to me that that their child's transition to John Wollaston was made so much smoother by a kind student buddy and approachable, caring staff.

A culture of care requires constant nurture. We do this informally and formally; the latter through implementing a range of age appropriate pastoral programs, including Encounters, to foster the young person's character development such that they grow in confidence, resilience and self- awareness. Furthermore, we have staff throughout the School with particular responsibilities for the pastoral care and wellbeing of the students. They are led by the Dean of Pastoral Care Kylie Virgo and the Deputy Head of Primary Fiona Shand who work together to ensure we have a whole school approach to care. School Counsellor Laura Steeles, Chaplain Justine and our visiting AISWA school psychologist Bas Snjider bring special skills and experience to the Pastoral Team.

We are mindful that in Term 4 when there is so much excitement around events that mark the end of a phase of a child's education and closure to the school year, that there can be feelings of anxiety and uncertainty about what lies ahead: 

What happens in Year 2? Will I be able to play in the big playground?

How will I cope in Year 7 with so many new students and teachers? 

How will I juggle my homework, part time job and playing sport in Year 11?

I'm so looking forward to Year 12 and being a prefect. Will it live up to my expectations?

The School's orientation programs for current and new students and parents are an important means of allaying concerns and providing important information about the School. Please encourage your child to participate wholeheartedly in orientation activities which include asking questions, working collegially, helping new students and having fun.

These past weeks I have greatly enjoyed the Year 9 Drama and Musical Theatre performances and the Primary and Secondary  Instrumental Evenings. Congratulations to all involved and thank you to the many parents who supported these events by their attendance. 

Next week Year 5s reprise their annual Night of Living Treasures which is always a highlight of their year. Year 6 students and staff are preparing for their Exhibition and Valedictory which promise to be memorable events for our senior Primary students. The first of the Praise and Thanksgiving ceremonies will be held for Year 10 and 11 students on Wednesday 30 November.

I look forward to seeing many families at our end of year events.

With good wishes.

Anne Ford

Principal