From the Principal 

It has been a pleasure to observe both our Year 11's and 12's settling back into college life and routines. Our Year 12's have not wasted any time getting back into work mode, acknowledging that the next 3 terms will go by quickly.

Today I spoke with our students at our assembly, about making sensible choices and that every action has a 'reaction'. We appreciate that accidents do occur, however I reminded students, that as in life outside of school, carelessness or deliberate acts that result in damage to property or cause upset to others, do come with consequences either financially or otherwise. I must say that overall, I am very impressed with the maturity displayed by this year's cohort and the respect they are showing toward both our College and each other. Our behaviour data for this term to date paints a very promising picture indeed - congratulations to our students!

College Board Year 11 Parent Representatives 

Thank you to Laura Russ, Kylie Noble, Crystal Henderson and Lucinda Smith for nominating for as Year 11 Parent Board Representatives. As there are more nominees than vacancies, I am required to run a ballot for parents to vote on. Please refer to the section in the Chatter which includes a brief biography of each nominee.   

Early Close - Parent and Staff Catch Up

A reminder that there is an 'early close' 12.20pm next Friday, 3 March leading up to the Long Weekend. From 12.20pm we will be putting on a BBQ lunch for families, students and staff to get to know each other before heading off for the long weekend break. I encourage all families and students to grab a bite to eat and mingle a bit before hitting the road.

A reminder that Residential Boarding is closed over the long weekend and students can return after 4pm on Monday 6 March.

Telstra Tech for STEM Scholarships

Congratulations to the following Year 11 students who have been selected to receive a 2023 Telstra Tech for STEM Regional Scholarship.

The scholarship provides students with a device to assist them to further their STEM education, preparing them for a future of work potentially in a STEM career.

Over the past 4 weeks, Class, Farm and Trades areas all closely monitored student engagement, commitment and application in all STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) courses. Congratulations to the below 30 Year 11 students who will receive a brand-new windows device by the end of this Term!

Parent Enquiries

We appreciate that sending your child to boarding can be daunting and raise many questions or concerns along the way. We work hard at maintaining open lines of communication with families and are always available for a chat.

This year we have seen instances of conversations not always being relayed in full, both amongst the student cohort and also back to families. Should student or families have any questions, we are always here to clarify and assist. Additionally, we are always committed to improving our outward communication and for example, we are in the process of updating our 'Dress Guidelines' to better clarify the College's expectations and reduce confusion. The College Guidelines will be updated in coming weeks.  

Autumn Carnival

It is with great sadness that I inform you that Autumn Carnival, scheduled to be held at Harvey Ag College later in the term has had to be cancelled. Unfortunately, there were major issues with booking accommodation for the other Ag Colleges (we had to resort to booking accommodation 1 hour away in Pinjarra ourselves). All Ag Colleges plan to get in early and book ready for 2024.

Wishing our College community a great rest of the week and an enjoyable long weekend (when it arrives).

Matt Dowell

Principal