FROM THE PRINCIPAL

The First Kew High Students 

During the last weeks of the term I met with two members of the Kew High School cohort who attended from 1963-68. They came to speak to me about the lasting and important connection they still have to Kew High School. They were having a day rich in Kew High School connections, meeting up with some of their former class mates. Their cohort was special, as the school was new and they were the ones responsible for the initial reputation in the community. They were especially competitive with each other, intrinsically motivated to achieve at their best and were determined that the school would rate highly in the neighbourhood. The achievements of the group are quite outstanding. Many have been extremely successful in academia and in business. There are past Principals, Vice Chancellors, University professors, scientists and artists - an alumni replete with high profile personalities.

They spoke at length of their keenness to assist current students of Kew High School and the group is meeting to try and forge a new and innovative relationship with the school that engages past pupils and elaborates on a plan moving forward.

They recalled the teaching staff with fondness, especially those who had made a significant impact on their lives. In our discussion they asked me if the students here were still highly motivated, had high expectations and were connected to their peers and the school.

In reality, nothing has changed over time. The teachers do make a significant difference to the lives of those who come through Kew High School. The school focus on relationships and on student wellbeing remains a priority. Kew High School is still highly regarded in the community and that reputation is important to us, hence the continual reminders about being positive ambassadors. Past students still find their way back to reconnect with teachers and as we converse with them we realise that they are still very much connected with their peers and still socialise with friends from school.

On reflection, there is always room for our students to push themselves, to not accept mediocrity, to look to higher standards, to test themselves,  to compete with each other and to be the best they can be. There is an opportunity to excel and to participate in a wide range of offerings.

Kew High School continues to improve and its strengths clearly come from the foundations established by the first students to walk through the doors.

Clare Entwisle