Principal's Report

As Term 1 draws to close, it is important to look back and reflect on all the fantastic work that is happening across the college. Some events included Start-up Program, Peer Support, Interschool Sport, Dance and Music performances, Breakfast Club, Homework Club, numerous Lunchtime clubs, Pasifika Choir, Open Day, The Summit Camp for Year 9 & 10, House Swimming, various excursion including the visit to Casey Tech by our Explore Students, Staff vs Student activities, and much more. There are so many learning opportunities for students, I encourage all students to embrace the challenge.

School Council

I wish to thank and congratulate the following people who work alongside me on our School Council:

Luke Delutis

School Council President, Community Member

Lynda Carter

School Council Vice President, Parent Rep

Kokoli Rawat

Treasurer, Parent Rep

Vicky Methven

Parent Rep

Wendy Gates

Parent Rep

Kerri Sumner

Parent Rep

Melissa Crocombe

Parent Rep

Emel Kuzu

Community Rep

Calvin DMoss

SRC Leader, Student Rep

Carlos Macasarte

SRC Leader, Student Rep

Paul Broecker

Assistant Principal, DET Rep

Eloise Haynes

Assistant Principal, DET Rep

Ayman Youssef

Assistant Principal, DET Rep

Teaching and Learning

During our recent Curriculum Day, we used the time to build and strengthen the capacity of staff in the areas of understanding trauma informed practice led by staff from Foundation House. Dr Adrian Bertolini facilitated an engaging  discussion in relation to assessment and developmental rubrics. Staff used the remainder of the day for curriculum planning. 

I am delighted to announce that we have been successful in our application for a VET innovations Grant. The school will receive a grant for $300,000 to support innovative and additional learning programs for our students. I wish to acknowledge Ms Debbie Edwards our Team leader for Student Services, Ms Hari Nikolau, Headstart Co-ordinator, and Ms Sally- Anne Melke from the regional office for their combined efforts with the application.    

Last week, members of our own Pasifika choir joined the Pasifika Choir from Narre Warren P-12 College. Both teams join as one to rehearse for the State School Spectacular. Critics have raved how wonder they sound, despite only having a few practices together. 

Last Saturday, students from our College represented HPSC for the first time in a Vex Robotics Competition at Templestowe College. On this occasion our team finished 6th out of 8 schools. Not bad for their first competition. This was a wonderful learning experience for members of the team. Well done to the team for their efforts! A big thank you to Mr Russell Beveridge and Mr Rhyce McMahon for the effort and time supporting our students.

What a delight it was to the recently invited to end of term dance performances from our Explore dance class and Advance Dance form our Enhance students.  Our theatre was filled with energy and passion.   It was wonderful to see students feeling comfortable to move freely to express themselves.  The dance floor was filled with a range of dancers from both experienced performers to beginners. Regardless of the level of experience and confidence, all students supported each other. Well done to the students in both dance classes, and a big thanks to Ms Anna McRae for encouraging and mentoring the students.

Earlier this week, our Excel students participated in the special program - Big Day In. Students enjoyed a range of learning tasks presented by Elevate education which included study skills and techniques. The day concluded with evening activities including an Easter egg hunt, followed by popcorn and a movie.  Thank you to our Senior School Team for their time and efforts with the program.  

A few weeks ago, we showcased our college during our Open day. The day included School Tours, while the evening program included, a brief presentation, music performances, refreshments, and  experiential learning. At HPSC, we support active learning, so what better way to showcase learning than to facilitate active participation for prospective students and parents. The feedback has been wonderful, and this has resulted in several addition requests for school tours. 

Obtaining feedback from students is an important was to evaluate our programs and the learning that happens at the college. For several years now, teachers have been  using Pivot, a program that enables teachers to seek feedback from students in relating to teaching and learning. Recently, Student Forums have been held to obtain direct and specific feedback from students in the Explore and Enhance programs. I have included some of their responses

What is it like having greater subject choices?

"Great, choosing my own subjects is better. Matches my interest and future direction:

 "It makes you feel like we have greater responsibility, a lot of student voice and freedom."

Reflect on your class time. What is it like to have older or younger students in some of your classes?

"Good you learn a lot for other students, older and younger.”

“ I actually like it because having older students makes me want to challenge them a lot and keep up with them!”

Staffing

I am excited to announce the appointment of the following staff to our College.

Andrea Philipsen is a highly experienced Business Manager and will join us from Heathmont College. Jack Joynson will join us for two days per week as a Chaplain. Jack’s role has a specific focus of being a supportive mentor to young people. Jack will work to support student engagement via lunchtime activities. Lea Zerman has been provisionally appointed to a Maths teaching position.

Building Works

I am pleased to advise that our Stage one Building works are tracking well and are due completed in July. The Builder for Stage 2 is soon to be announced. The Stage 2 building work to transform the Tech building will commence during Term 2. I wish to acknowledge Mr Ayman Youssef for his work in leading the discussion and planning on behalf of our college.   

I wish to thank and congratulate staff and students for their hard work throughout a very busy Term 1. I encourage everyone to take some time to rest and recharge and spent time with family and friends. Term 2 commences on Monday 19th April. I look forward to seeing you then. Stay safe and take care.

Wayne Haworth

Principal