Principal's Report
I wish to thank all students, staff and parents for the warm welcome to HP. There is a wonderful vibe at this school. Every day I am greeted by friendly, respectful students. Our staff are professional, hardworking and dedicated. It is a privilege to be the new Principal of this wonderful community. I wish to acknowledge the smooth start to the year with many new staff and students, including 200 students at Year 7.
Recently, our student leaders led a Whole school Assembly to welcome everyone to the 2019 school year. The Assembly had a strong focus on celebrating excellence. Our 2018 School Dux Gochika Jeyanthan, presented by video.
New staff were introduced along with our new student leadership team. In my address to students, I reminded students of some of the characteristics of successful people. These include, a relentless pursuit of your goals, working hard, being determined, seeking and accepting constructive feedback , just to name a few.
High level of attendance at school also play a significant role in improving student learning outcomes. It is not OK to be away. Absences can create gaps in learning, making it harder for students to excel. A few days away each term can add up and all students must aim for a 90% level of attendance. I look forward to parents encouraging improved student learning, by supporting high levels of attendance.
Yesterday, I hosted a Meet the Principal Morning Tea. It was a nice opportunity to meet parents and to hear what they love about HPSC. Thank you to the parents who were able to take time out of their busy day. When there is a triangulation of student, teachers and parents working together, learning outcomes for students are enhanced. This is why it is so important to have active parent participation.
A timely reminder about road safety. This week, one of our students was struck by a motor vehicle while heading home. Thankfully, he only sustained minor injuries and after a few days at home recovering, we hope to see him return to school on Monday. Students are reminded to always take care when crossing roads and wear helmets when riding bikes.
Last week, our Year 12 students attended their Study camp at PGL Campaspe Downs Adventure Camp. It was a great opportunity for students to build and strengthen relationships with their peers and teachers. Students enjoyed a range of adventure and study related activities. Visiting the camp for a day provided me with the opportunity to build connections with some of our senior students. Thank you to Mr Cameron Christiansen and Ms Georgianne Kios for their work in planning and leading the camp. Thank you also to many other staff for supporting our camp program.
An evening presentation was recently held for parents and carers relating to building student learning power. I am happy to report that over 160 parents attended the evening presentation by Darren Pereira. Darren’s presentation focussed on building resilience, having a growth mindset and showing grit to overcome challenges. The presentation followed day time workshops for students.
We are currently in the process of recruiting additional staff including. We have recently appointed new English/Humanities teachers and a new Receptionist/First Aid Officer. We are also seeking a Technology teacher.
As I have mentioned previously, I am passionate about empowering students in their learning. I am eager to hear from students and staff about what they love about our school and what are the opportunities for improvement. Student forums to obtain feedback will commence next week.
Next Friday 22nd February will be a Curriculum Day. Please note that this is a student free day, students are not required. Dylan William will conduct a Professional Learning day for staff on Assessment to Improve Learning.
Year 7 Welcome BBQ evening will also be held on - Thursday 28th February at 6- 8pm.The evening will begin with a BBQ served in the Canteen Courtyard between 6.00pm – 7.00pm, and then a presentation in the CRC / Library from 7.00pm – 8.00pm. A letter will be sent home soon and for catering purposes, parents are requested to indicate the numbers of family members that will be attending.
The Senior School Information Evening will take place in the River Gum Performing Arts Centre (RPAC) on Thursday 28th February at 6.30- 7.30pm. The focus will be on ‘Keys to Success in the Senior School’. All students VCE and VCAL students graduating in 2019 or 2020 are expected to attend with a parent. Year 10 students studying a VCE subject are also encourage to attend. The session will run for approximately one hour and will cover; Protocols and expectations; Managing workload and stress; Student Wellbeing; Careers and Pathways.
I look forward to meeting families at either the Year 7 BBQ or Senior School Information Evening. Thank you for your continued support of our school.
Wayne Haworth
Principal
Wayne Haworth
Principal
