Principal's Log

At our Middle and Senior College and Junior College Chapels this week, we have paused to reflect on the sacrifices made by our Defence Personnel as part of our commemoration activities. Staff and students paid their respects by wearing red poppies and benefitted from listening to Pastor Tim talk about the history of why we wear the poppies as part of our remembrance activities.  We thank Year 11 student, Lachlan Eden for playing the last post and commend our students on the respectful way in which they have engaged in these remembrance activities.

The Year 4 to 8 production of Annie was a wonderful showcase of student talent.  Effective and creative direction, choreography, set design, costuming and stage craft enabled the story to unfold in an entertaining and professional way.  We congratulate all of the students on their performances and contribution to the staging of such an entertaining and professional production.  We thank and congratulate Mrs Kristy Astwick and Mr David Simpfendorfer for their direction, Mrs Tracy Hickey for costuming and creative input, past student Courtney Callaghan for the choreography, Mr Damien Nolan for set construction and the team of staff and students who supported the production in a variety ways, including our senior students who provided strong backstage leadership.  Thank you to our parents who have supported the rehearsals and to our community who were a very appreciative audience.

Year 9 and 10 students enjoyed sharing their learning with parents and staff at the STEM Showcase on Wednesday afternoon.  It was a joy to listen to students explain the thinking behind their designs and the learnings that had been generated as they collaborated in the construction and refinement of their roller coasters, underwater drones, optical devices, prosthetics and solar cookers. Many students shared how their involvement in this program has inspired them to deepen their engagement with STEM learning and consider careers in a range of related fields including engineering and health. We thank Mr Wes Warner and Mrs Claire Richards for their leadership of the STEM program, and parents and students for their support of the Showcase.

We wish our Middle College and Year 10 students all the best as they prepare for their upcoming exams. Year 10 students commence their exams this Friday and Year 7-9 students next Tuesday. Communication about these exams has been provided by Mrs Rae Hall (Middle College) and Mrs Anne-Marie Gerlach (Year 10) via email and can be found on NAV.

Last Friday was Tuckshop Day and we thank Mrs Shea Moor, Mrs Bev Saunders, Mrs Rachel Dixon and Ms Saran Litt for the great service they provide to our community. Many of us appreciate the extra effort that our Tuckshop team make to ensure that the Tuckshop provides a very special service for our community. Community members are asked to note that due to our Tuckshop team all being involved in Year 12 final day activities on Friday Nov 19th, the Tuckshop will be closed and there will be no food service on that day.

The College Council has set the fees for the 2022 school year. The Council is always mindful to keep a balance on keeping fees as affordable as possible while enhancing services and facilities. Details of these fees can be found on the website and in the notice that follows.  Families who have questions in regards to fees are encouraged to make contact with Mr Mike Healy our Business Manager.

We thank God for the service of our Defence Personnel and for peace in our world.

Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal