Welcome Back to Semester 2
Welcome back to students, families and staff to Semester Two. I know it can be challenging to get motivated in the colder months to get up and get going each morning, but hopefully the mid-year break has allowed some time for reenergising and re-booting. This semester brings new opportunities for growth, learning, and celebration.
Last week our College community recognised NAIDOC week, which actually occurred during staff week and the beginning of the holidays. During Formation lessons and the College assembly, students and staff acknowledged NAIDOC week and used the time to honour the rich history, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. There is so much to learn from the Elders of our communities and the deep and rich culture that has existed for thousands and thousands of years.
This years theme ‘Keep the fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’, honours the enduring strength and vitality of our First Nations People. The fire is a symbol of connection to country, to each other and to the rich tapestry of traditions.
This week in our College assembly, we initiated the members of the new Student Voice Council. This is a new initiative for 2024, where student representatives have been elected by their peers to represent each Year Group in a council designed to promote student voice and to develop leadership across all year groups. We congratulate the following students on their election to the Student Voice Council:
- Sean Clarke – Yr 11
- Jackson Hasler – Yr 11
- Brayden Fowler – Yr 10
- Mose Taiatini – Yr 10
- Harry Raby – Yr 9
- Aden Parastatidis – Yr 9
- Owen O’Grady – Yr 8
- Oliver Neave – yr 8
- Benji MacNamara – Yr 7
- Tyrone Lauvao – Yr 7
These students will also be joined by the College Captain and College Vice-Captains to form the council for 2024.
As we dive into this new semester, it is essential that students remember to ‘Raise the Bar’ in the spirit of determination, open-mindedness and resilience. The break has given us time to rest and recharge, and now it’s time to refocus on our academic, Co-curricular, social and personal goals.
I encourage all students to show determination by revisiting their goals and staying committed to them; Be open-minded and willing to learn and grow and take safe risks to try new things and meet new people; develop resilience and continue to understand that mistakes and set-backs are part of our journey in developing who we are as people. When faced with difficulties, remember the stories of resilience we have learnt from our First Nations people who have overcome so many obstacles to be present and celebrating their culture today during NAIDOC week.
As we embark on this new semester, let’s support each other and work together to create a positive and inclusive school environment. Let’s celebrate our achievements, learn from our experiences, and strive to be the best versions of ourselves.
Here’s to a fantastic semester ahead and bring on Heritage round – Good luck to all our teams!
Ms Monica Day
Assistant Principal – Student Wellbeing