Across the Principal's Desk

Wellbeing for Learning

I was asked to speak at a Regional Forum for School Principals last week on the topic of Wellbeing for Learning. Our school was chosen because we are regarded as having very strong wellbeing support for our students, which positively impacts their learning outcomes – so, it was great feedback for our school and our community to be invited to give a presentation at the forum. I spoke about our positive school culture and the numerous specific supports we provide for our students. Maurice Billi (Youth Worker) also spoke about his positive experiences working in our school on a regular basis and commented on the various aspects of wellbeing that he believes work well in our school.

Jaelyn Brand (one of our School Captains) also had the opportunity to speak. She did an exceptional job presenting her point of view on what works well at our school, based on her own experiences. She was a terrific ambassador for Beaufort Secondary College. The way in which Jaelyn delivered her message was certainly highly appreciated by a very large audience of school principals and Department of Education and Training representatives. She received the most enthusiastic round of applause I have heard at one of these forums. I received many messages after the presentation congratulating our school and in particular, Jaelyn, for the way in which she provided ‘student voice’ to the topic. It was a very proud moment for this school principal.

House Swimming Sports

Our House Swimming Sports were held last week with perfect weather for the event. Congratulations to our Age Champions and well done to all of the students who participated on the day, particularly those who are not avid swimmers, yet were prepared to get in and ‘have a go’. The House Captains did a terrific job leading and organising their respective ‘teams’ and we enjoyed some ‘house spirit’ with chants and colours, which was good fun and certainly added atmosphere – well done to everyone involved. I need to pay tribute to our Year 12 students who beat our teachers in the staff versus student relay – they did a mighty job! The day went very well – thank you to Ms Vernon for organising the event – a huge effort – and to all of the staff who helped out on the day to bring it all together – a team effort! Thanks also to YMCA for the preparation of the pool and grounds, as well as supplying life guards, who incidentally, were all former students of our school, so it was terrific to have them there helping on the day. Thanks to Friends of the Pool for the BBQ and drinks. We also appreciated the presence of parents, grandparents, friends and community members who came along on the day to support our young people – great to see you there!

School Council Election

This week’s newsletter contains information about the School Council Election process and a nomination form. School Councils play an important role in setting the directions of the school within central guidelines. However, Beaufort Secondary College Council meetings are traditionally informal, positive and informative.

I encourage parents to seriously consider standing for School Council. An information sheet for parents is provided, along with a Schedule 5A form to be used if you wish to nominate yourself, whilst the Schedule 5B form is used to nominate another parent (with his or her agreement). If you have any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact me at school.