Principal's Report

2020 Wrap Up

In a year like no other and despite significant challenges, much has been achieved this year. We commenced the year with a new curriculum structure, whereby students are empowered to take more control of their learning. Our vertical structure has enabled students to be grouped according to their passion and learning need, rather than simply by age.

Remote Learning

The global pandemic resulted in remote learning. I am so proud of the work of students and staff to adapt and adjust to learning a different way. I am incredibly proud of our staff for their work in supporting and maintaining strong connections with students during a long and sustained period of lockdown. Professional learning for staff was accelerated particularly in the use of technology and e-learning. The digital literacy skills of students also grew exponentially. The new learning opportunities created by remote learning have provided a foundation for new ways of learning moving forward.

Congratulations Class of 2020

During Term 4, we farewelled our Graduating students with both a Final Assembly and a Valedictory Evening. Our Student Leaders with the Senior School Team redesigned these special events to ensure that our students had fun, celebrated a fantastic achievement, while remaining covid-safe.

Commencement Program

Our recent Commencement Program enabled our students to immerse themselves in their new subjects for 2021. This work sets the scene and expectations for next year. Students are reminded to complete all required holiday homework. Our VCE and VCAL students are especially reminded of our high expectations and accountability in relation to the completion of this work.

Year 6 into Year 7 Orientation

Our recent Year 6 Orientation Day was a great success, with lots of excited students eager to join our learning community.

End Of Year Program

Last week, we facilitated a program with a strong focus on Student Wellbeing and Careers. Thank you to the Wellbeing and Careers Team for their valuable work with our students. The End of Year Program comprising of both school and external based activities enables students to finish the year on a high. Thank you to our Sub Schools and Domain Teams for your work.

Presentation Night

On Monday, we conducted our first online Presentation Night. I am extremely proud of all award recipients on your fine effort and commitment to excellence. We are very proud of you! Thank you to our School Captains Isabeau Hart and Eddie Vusic, Mr Youssef, Ms Shiel, Ms Louden, Mr Jessop, Ms Kios, Ms Vanstan, Mrs Fritsch, and Mr Mattar for their work in orchestrating this event. A list of all award recipients can be found on the next page.

Congratulations Eddie

Also on Monday evening, Eddie Vusic was recognised and awarded the Holt Community Spirit and Leadership Award for our school. Congratulations Eddie, we are proud of you!

Excellent MEA's

In 2019, as a state finalist at the Victorian Education Excellence Awards, our Multi-Cultural Aide Team were noted for their outstanding work in supporting our students. This year they have again been recognised by Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence. Fantastic work, I am very proud of this achievement and your support of our students.

Student Uniform for 2021

New College Jackets: These are available for all students to purchase (from PSW uniforms – expected delivery 6th January 2021). All new students are required to purchase the new ‘soft shell’ jacket. Current students may opt to buy the new jacket or continue to wear the current spray jacket. Current spray jackets may be worn until the start of the 2023 school year. From 2023, all students will be wearing the new jacket.

Physical Education uniform: There are a few important changes to note. School approved Track pants and Sport shorts with the HPSC logo will be available for purchase from 6th January 2021. These uniform items are part our compulsory uniform items.

From 2021, students may wear their complete Physical Education uniform on the days of practical classes. This applies to all P.E practical classes and Dance classes.

Please note: academic and P.E / sport uniforms should not be mixed. Eg. Students should not wear sport shorts/track pants and or runners with their academic uniform. It is one type of uniform or the other, not mixing the two types of uniform together. Students should see their Student Learning Leader for further clarification.

New Staff for 2021

I am excited to announce that the following staff will be joining our college in 2021.

Leading Teacher (STEAM Leader): Ms. Amy Mraz
Learning Specialist (Data & Learning Growth Leader): Mr. Broady Kata
Teacher (English/EAL): Ms. Aria Sunga
Teacher (English): Ms. Anna McRae
Teacher (EAL): Ms. Hannah Grimm
Teacher (EAL): Ms. Brienna Allen
Teacher (EAL): Ms. Damien Niklaus
VET Kitchen Operations: Mr. Christopher Micallef
Education Support (Marketing/Publicity/Alumni): Ms. Marlowe Calleja
Education Support (School Nurse/First Aid): Ms. Prue Smith
IT Support: Mr. Loretto Briones

We welcome the return of Ms. Priyanka Dixit and Ms. Jess Harrod, both return from Family leave.

Farewell and Good Luck

Due to promotional and professional growth reasons, the following staff will be departing our college. I wish to thank them for their service and dedication to our community.

Mr. Rob Leonard
Ms. Emma Craven
Ms. Sarah Fritsch
Ms. Liza Greaves
Ms. Susan Cochrane
Ms. Nery Soto
Ms. Alina Gresle
Ms. Meredith Azam
Ms. Cassie Truscott.

We wish you all the very best for the future.

Additionally for 2021, Mr. George Mattar and Ms. Emily Hensman will be on leave, and Ms. Kim van Heerwaarden, Ms Maria Vrbic and Ms. Amber Haider will be on Family Leave.

Important Dates

Friday 22nd January: 9.00 am – 11.00pm

Campion Book Collection from E Block

Thursday 28th January: 8.45 am - 3.15pm

The following students return

Explore (Year 7)
Excel (Year 11 & 12)

Friday 29th January: 8.45 am- 3.15pm

All remaining levels return

Enhance (Year 8, 9, 10)

Thank You

I wish to take the opportunity to thank all parents/carers, students and staff for your support throughout the year.

Have a safe and restful holiday.

I am looking forward to your working with you again next year.