Principal's Message

Today is the 11th of September 19 years ago, the world changed in an instant as two airliners brought down the World Trade Centre in New York. Those of us who lived through it can all remember the first instant we saw that image. The world seems no closer to a peaceful or just settlement now than it did then. Instead, we have all had to learn to live with an atmosphere of increased threat and worry. We have made the changes we had to, and got on with our lives, but differently to before. The current situation with Covid-19 bears comparison. Then as now, it is easy to be traumatised by the seemingly incessant negative news that surrounds us. Children in particular need to be shielded from over-exposure to news and events that are beyond our control or influence. Psychologists tell us that repeated exposure to the same negative messages does have a cumulative effect. That is why it is important that students continue learning during these periods of lockdown. It is also important to keep up exercise, proper sleep and healthy eating. I commend to all families the wellbeing builders that our team has been publishing week by week. 

In the last newsletter I advised the formation of a working group to consider the option of winter pants for the girls’ uniform. The working group will soon be forwarding surveys and seeking your input on this important proposal. We will be seeking the responses of students, families and all stakeholders. Your voice is important, please take the opportunity to respond when it comes. 

This is the last newsletter before the term break. Students and teachers and families have all been working very hard under the pressure of lockdown and remote learning. I hope the holidays bring some welcome respite in all of your homes.

The best news is that school is returning next term. VCE students will come in for the GAT test in the first week, with appropriate Covid-19 precautions. The first week will be remote learning, but as of Monday 12th October, classes will return to school for all year levels. In order to protect the health and safety of all at school, masks, temperature testing, sanitising and distancing measures will all remain in place until further notice. We look forward to seeing everyone back safe and sound after the holidays.

Wishing all of our families good health and happiness.