Principal's Report

Thank you to all students and parents for attending our recent Year 7 Meet and Greet BBQ and the Senior School Information evening “Maximizing Success in the Senior School”. Research shows that active parent engagement in their children’s education, assists in supporting students to improve their learning.

Recently, I was thrilled to be invited to attend and participate in a class discussion with the VCE Health and Human Development students. I really enjoyed the questions and discussion that focused on equity and education. Later today, I look forward to attending a Music exhibition by VCAL Certificate of Music students.

Earlier this week, our House Swimming Carnival took place at the Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre. Thankfully there was a slight reprieve to the recent hot weather. House spirit was alive and well with many students and staff dressed in their House Colours. The scene was set for a wonderful day of competitive swimming combined with a variety of novelty races, enabling all students to participate.  To the delight of the students and staff, the swimming events were interspersed with outbreaks of impromptu Afghani music and dancing. Well done to all student competitors, to Ms. Bree Peart, and to the Physical Education team, for their planning and organization throughout the day.

The first round of interschool debating commenced this week at St Margaret's School. Students represented the college with distinction. Thank you Ms. Emily Hensman for coaching our amazing students.

In order to obtain student feedback, I have recently conducted several student focus groups. This has provided me with an opportunity to connect more closely with students, to hear what they love about our school and what are the opportunities for improvement.

Overwhelmingly, students have commented positively on our friendly and supportive staff and how we have a strong culture of acceptance of others and the cultural diversity. Students requested that they would like to see more subject choices and additional facility upgrades. Further analysis of the data will be undertaken along with Forums for staff and parents.

A Parent Forum will take place in our Conference Room at 4.30pm on Tuesday 19th March. I welcome parents to join me to provide feedback about our school. If you are unable to attend, please remember that feedback is on-going as I welcome your feedback throughout the year.

Our next Newshamper will occur in the last week of Term. From Term 2, the Newshamper will be published every 4 weeks.

Wayne Haworth

Principal