HPSC Newshamper

Principal's Report

As another term draws to a close, it is time to reflect before looking forward. The challenges of this term have again been significant, following another period of extended lockdown and remote and  flexible learning for staff and students. Well done to all for pushing through, remaining connected and staying positive. The challenges affect each person differently, but it important to remember that support is always close by. I wish to take the opportunity to thank our dedicated staff for their work in supporting students with their learning and wellbeing. As a staff, we have responded to feedback from students and parents, making adjustments to our teaching and learning programs in order to better support student wellbeing and learning. Thank you to the numerous staff who have attended onsite to support our vulnerable students and students of essential workers.

This week, final year VCE students were invited to collect practice exams in preparation for the end of year exams. I encourage all Year 12 students to use the holiday break to summarise and revise your notes but also to find some down time to recharge and refresh. As previously mentioned, The GAT is scheduled to occur on Tuesday 5th October.

 

Based on advice and communications from the Education department, I have sent several messages to students and parents/carers regarding the Vaccination Blitz for students. Vaccinations started with Final Year students but are now available to all students aged 12- 16 years. Following advice from the Chief Health Officer, vaccines are recommended and encouraged, but not compulsory. If you are not sure and have questions, please seek advice from your local General Practitioner or medical centre.    

Last week, we acknowledged R U OK? Day to shine a light on the importance of mental health and looking after each other. Care packs were created and delivered to each of our Final Year students. We know that they have been doing it tough, and since commencing their Senior School studies, they have had to endure a significant period in remote and flexible learning.  

 

A few weeks ago, we saw daily media reports about the Afghan crisis with the challenges remaining. As a compassionate community we have reached out to our Afghan families, to offer support and assistance. We have implemented an initiative whereby ribbons displaying the colours of the Afghan flag and Australian Flag were tied the school gate, as a sign of solidarity. This week, we have arranged for a Humanitarian Lawyer to present an online information session free of charge to our Afghan families and members of our community.   

 

A few weeks ago, following months of planning and collaboration we were excited to conduct our House reveal, and share our new House names.  From 2022, our House names are;

  • Hollows (Blue). Element: Water. Named after Fred Hollows who was known for his work in restoring eyesight for thousands of people in Australia and many other countries.
  • Walton (Yellow). Element: Wind.  Named after Nancy Walton who was a pioneering Australian Aviator.
  • Freeman (Red). Element: Fire. Named after Cathy Freeman who was the first Australian Aboriginal person to compete in the Olympics.
  • Mabo (Green) Element: Earth. Named after Eddie Mabo who fought for Aboriginal Land Rights. 

We are also excited to announce that from next year, the current structure of Junior, Middle and Senior will change to be the four Houses.   Each House will have students from Year 7 -12. Students will remain in their House throughout their time at the college.  Increased participation, connection, Team/House pride and school spirit are all goals associated with taking our House System to a whole new level. 

Following Subject Selections and Course Counselling, we have commenced the process of staff recruitment. Currently, we are recruiting to find dedicated and passionate educators in the following roles,

  • Leading Teacher- Head of House 
  • Teacher- English/EAL Teacher ( x2)
  • Teacher- Maths/Science 

The Premier has indicated that a road map for Victoria will be announced this Sunday 19th September. Members of our Executive Leadership Team will meet during the break to plan for the implementation of the measures relevant to schools.

 

I wish to take the opportunity to again thank all students, parents and carers and staff for your support of our college. I wish you a safe and restful holiday. 

 

Wayne Haworth

Principal