Assistant Principal -
Wellbeing

Mrs Mellissa Bell

Changes:

As I write this article I find myself reflecting on our current Year 12 cohort and the fact they are preparing for the next chapter of their lives. I have met with many of them to talk about getting prepared for their trial exams (next week) and how quickly their time here at school is coming to an end. Everyone approaches and manages change differently. Some are hesitant and will avoid change at all costs, others relish the idea of a new challenge and run at change head on. Many of our students are grappling with the idea that school, the familiar pattern, the social connections, the sense of safety will soon no longer be part of their every day. Instead they will begin to move into the workforce, further study or travel. New friendships and adventures await them. And though I may be excited for them and all the possibilities that are open to them, many are finding the thought of moving beyond the school gate a little intimidating.

This period of time is also one where parents find themselves having to face the idea that their daughters and sons are about to embark on the next stage of life. Moving out of home, some moving interstate. Change is scary. It is also hard to envision our children becoming the adults we have dreamt them to become.

Change is also happening here at school. We will soon begin the process of looking for our next student leaders for 2024. We will also begin preparing for our new year 7 students in 2024. All around us we find ourselves managing and facing change. And we have also found ourselves in a position where change is happening within the school leadership. Change is unfortunately inevitable.

I would like to thank Mrs Clare Healy for her leadership and continued focus on providing our students with the opportunity to engage in future focused learning. Her drive to implement early commencement of VET courses for some students has encouraged them to remain engaged in education, seeking qualifications in Construction and Primary Industries. Clare has worked tirelessly with a true want to ensure O’Connor is able to meet the needs of the young people we serve. Personally I have appreciated the opportunities Clare has also shown me professionally. I wish Clare all the very best as she too, faces the challenges and excitement of change.

I would like to share a video Mrs Healy shared with the student population at the beginning of term 2 as a reflection of who we are and where we have come from.