Wellbeing 

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As we come to the end of another very busy term, I would like to commend the students for the manner in which they have completed the first semester of their studies. The students have continued to show resilience, maturity and growth in many aspects of College life. There has been a real focus on making sure that all in the Academy community feel connected and heard using the College theme of ‘Many Voices, One Community’ as the basis and I can genuinely say that it has been a roaring success. Led by the Senior Student Leadership Team with a variety of initiatives and the Student Wellbeing Leaders through different Mentor Group and year level activities, there has been a great sense of community, belonging and camaraderie amongst all at the Academy.

I do invite and encourage all students and their parents/guardians to find some time over the next two weeks to reflect on all efforts and achievements so far this year. This reflection should then inform all students of the approach they need to employ in Semester 2 to continue to improve in all aspect of their personal development and their studies. 

Uniform

While most of the students have been wearing the winter uniform correctly over the course of this term, there are still a few students who need to address the following:

• Jewellery – no ankle bracelets, wrist bracelets, inappropriate and/or multiple earrings (one earring in each lobe of the ear is permitted) necklaces, nose rings, etc.
• Shoulder length hair or longer should be tied up at all times;
• No extreme hair styles or colours;
• Skirts should be at mid-knee length or longer; 
• Fitted pants are not to be rolled up;
• No coloured socks/wearing socks over tights 
• No make up
• No eye lash extensions
• No fake nails

I would ask you to encourage your daughters to ensure their uniform always looks its best, including whilst they are travelling to and from school. I would also encourage your daughters to use the holidays to address any items of uniform that may not be up to standard. Students will continue to receive infringements and detentions when their uniform does not meet the Academy standards and I would prefer not to go down the path of sending students home if they are continually out of uniform. Your support with this matter is much appreciated. 

Attendance

We have been in touch with a number of students and their parents over the course of this semester where we have some concerns about their daughter’s attendance at the College or the regularity of them arriving late. Regular attendance at school is crucial for several reasons which have been outlined here.

As can be seen from the information and infographic, regular attendance at school is vital for so many reasons. It really does set the foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth and therefore we ask parents to ensure that students attend school, in a timely manner as close to 100% of the time as possible. 

I wish all students and families a very happy Term 2 break. For those lucky enough to be escaping the freezing conditions in Victoria enjoy your time away. For those who are remaining in Melbourne, rug up and experience what this beautiful city has to offer. Most of all, regardless of what you are doing and where you are going, remain safe and we look forward to seeing you all back at the Academy at the beginning of Term 3.

As always, please remember never hesitate to be in touch should you have any queries or concerns.

Mr Sam Di Camillo

Deputy Principal, Wellbeing & Operations