From the Principal

It has been an exciting start to Term 2, with a number of key school events bringing the community together. 

In Week 1, all our staff and students stopped their daily activities to commemorate ANZAC day in a formal assembly.  School Leadership, Student Leaders, John Wells OAM and our Federal MP Mr. Julian Hill, shared stories that captured the Anzac legend, recognised the sacrifice of those who served our country and continue to serve and highlighted the values and qualities we as a nation believe in. 

A number of our Year 7 students attended Phillip Island Adventure Camp for 3 days early in the term as part of our transition program. Student and teachers participated in fun and challenging activities that encouraged them to get to know those from across the Houses. Feedback from everyone involved was extremely positive with one student assuring me on his return that they had “the best most awesome time”. 

A highlight for me was attending the Year 12 Leadership Camp in Week 2, with our 20 Senior Student Leaders. I felt privileged to witness individual students developing greater leadership confidence, deepening their understanding of what it means to lead as a team and impressed me on the final day, as they narrowed down their focus for the remainder for the year. 

Pathways planning has started in earnest across the Houses with all Year 12 students meeting with their House Leader to check their progress and ensure they are on track to be successful in 2023 and achieve their goals. In addition, Year 10, 11, and 12 students attended our Careers Expo last week where they had an opportunity to meet providers from Universities, TAFE Colleges and local employers and explore the possibilities of what they could pursue beyond school. The day was incredibly successful, and all students were fully engaged during their session. Further information for parents and students about online sessions for families regarding Senior Studies, the New Certificate and how you can support your child and as well as details of a Year 10 Subject Selection day will be communicated shortly. If you have any questions regarding our Pathways process, please contact your child’s House Leadership team directly.

After a successful swimming Sports in Term 1, the school held its Athletics Carnival this week. Students from all year levels competed in field and track events and year 12 students demonstrated creative flair in their choice of costumes. It was a fantastic occasion and a great opportunity to strengthen House spirit. Banksia were declared the champions by the end of the afternoon and the race for the House shield is now hotting up. The final and deciding event will be our Chorales competition in the last week of Term. 

Finally, it is with pleasure I announce that Kellie Mason has been provisionally appointed as Associate Principal of Teaching and learning and will begin her new role at the start of Term 3. Mark and I are delighted to welcome Kellie to the Executive Leadership team. 

I hope to see many of you at our Chorales Competition which will be held for the first time in 3 years on Thursday 22nd June. I look forward to seeing you then.

Best Wishes,

Susan Ogden