Term 2 Key Dates

Principal Team Coverage

We have some of the Principal Team on leave in the next couple of months. Mr Steve Quinn and Ms Jillian Baird have stepped into the Assistant Principal shared responsibilities. Both have been leading teachers for numerous years and have vast experiences to fulfil the duties of this role. I (Mr Headlam) will be filling in for Mr Dawson in his absence.

Curriculum Day

I wanted to thank Samantha Free for organising such a great day on Differentiation. One of the catchy Department themes/slogans at the moment is “Every Student Matters” and this Professional Learning opportunity enhances the capacity of staff to really make their classrooms an environment where every student feels that they do matter. I look forward to visiting some classes to observe the differentiation strategies in action.

Be Bold, Be Heard

Lots happening with this program. Friday, we held our first extension day. This was an application only opportunity for students in the program to be extended at the BBBH Leadership Summit. Some students who were looking for more development in leadership applied and attended this at the Victoria Academy. Led by yLead, students participated in a range of activities to build their capacity to lead others in the program. The intention being for them to lead the next few forums. 

This year, we also added some professional learning opportunities for BBBH staff champions, so they feel strong in the management of their group to ensure they help their kids reach their goals. This was a fantastic opportunity. Although low in attendance, it was outstanding in delivering some powerful strategies to leaders across Geelong.

On Friday 9th May, I was invited to Copperfield College to liaise with the Honourable Minister Hutchins, The Minister for Women. Students at the school highlighted the impact the program has had on them and the community, and I presented her with a badge and the background of the program and its successes. She asked for permission to discuss this in Parliament. 

This support for this program is now widely recognised and as a result I have been asked to present at the State Principals conference in June and encouraged to nominate for a State Education Award, by our regional leaders.

End of Term

Following a review of practices at the end of Term, we have determined that we will be finishing school at 2:30pm, as opposed to 1:30pm. This will align with other schools, bus arrangements and enable us to effectively manage students safely at the end of the day. Essentially it means that road safety is far greater at that time because the speed limit is 40km/hr. Communications with more details will occur later in the week.

Buses

Can you please remind your children to tap on and tap off the buses? We often get told there are too many students on the bus, when the number who have tapped on is far less. Subsequently the bus companies will not add another bus to the route as they will only base it on their data.

Students Crossing the Road

There have been a few reports of students not using the crossings to get across the road. School pick-up times are quite hectic and drivers at that time can find themselves managing a number of different things, so a young person running out on the road is not easily anticipated. Please remind your children to use the crossings at all times!

Parents Needed for School Council

We are looking for three more parent members for our School Council.  

Being part of the School Council is a rewarding experience, offering the chance to be responsible for both immediate and long-term goals of the College. Council members bring their unique perspectives and skills to help shape the school's future. If you are interested in joining our School Council, please contact the school administration office for more information.

Council will be voting in the new members at the next school council meeting, Tuesday, 17th June. These meetings include a small meal, great discussion and provide an opportunity to contribute to the immediate and long-term future of the College and are truly rewarding. 

Are you thinking about joining, or do you know someone who might be interested? - Please contact the College.

Students feeling unwell?

Please inform your child/ren that if they are feeling unwell during the school day, they should go to Sick Bay. We have staff there who are trained to address most circumstances and then they will communicate with parents as required. In the event your child needs to go home, they will arrange this. Students should not be doing this through their own devices. This helps us track the whereabouts of our students.

Students coming to school late or early leaving, should always sign out through their Sub School, or Sick Bay.