Principal’s Reflection Term 3 2026

As Term 3 draws to a close, it is an opportunity to reflect on what has been another busy and rewarding term at the College. One of the great strengths of our community is the breadth of opportunities available to our students, both within and beyond the classroom. This term has certainly demonstrated that education is about much more than academic achievement; it is about helping young people discover their strengths, develop confidence, build relationships and prepare themselves for the opportunities and responsibilities that lie ahead.

For our senior students, planning for the future has been an important focus. Our Year 10 students have undertaken their 2027 Course Counselling, making important decisions about their final years of schooling and the pathways they may pursue beyond the College. Our Year 9 students have also had the opportunity to begin exploring future possibilities through Career Tasters in Business, Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy and Carpentry. These experiences are invaluable in helping students understand the many pathways available to them and recognise the connection between their learning today and their future aspirations.

Beyond the classroom, our students have embraced an extraordinary range of experiences. Our Senior School Production, Till the Stars Come Down, and Creatives for Care showcased the talent, commitment and creativity of our students and staff, while our Outdoor Education students challenged themselves through camps to Dwellingup, Kalbarri and the Abrolhos Islands. We also enjoyed celebrating Book Week, with staff and students in Years 7 and 11 bringing favourite literary characters to life through their enthusiastic costumes, and celebrating our Year 9 Father's Day Breakfast, a valued occasion that recognises the important role fathers and significant others play in our students' lives. Some of our Year 10 students are travelling to Canberra, providing them with the opportunity to experience our nation’s capital and deepen their understanding of Australia’s history, democracy and national identity.

Sport has once again been an important part of college life. The Interhouse Athletics Carnival brought our community together in a wonderful display of participation, House spirit and friendly competition. Students have also proudly represented the College at ACC Carnivals in AFL, AFLW, Netball and Athletics. While we celebrate sporting achievement, these opportunities are equally about teamwork, perseverance, commitment and representing the College with pride.

At this time of year, our thoughts also turn to our Year 12 students as they prepare to conclude their formal schooling and begin the next chapter of their lives. For our Year 12 families, this is a significant milestone, filled with excitement, pride and perhaps a little sadness as thirteen years of schooling come to an end. I thank our Year 12 students for the contribution they have made to our college and encourage them to take with them not only the knowledge and skills they have developed, but also the friendships, values and experiences that have helped shape the young adults they have become. I extend my sincere thanks to our staff for the countless hours, encouragement, care and commitment they have given these students, not simply this year but throughout their time at the College. To our parents and families, thank you for your partnership, support and the many sacrifices you have made along the way. The achievements of our graduating students are shared by the many people who have walked alongside them.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge an area that can sometimes generate discussion in schools: our college uniform. Uniform policies are not simply about appearance or enforcing rules for the sake of rules. They help create a sense of belonging, equality and pride in our college community, while also teaching students that being part of a community brings shared expectations and responsibilities. Beyond school, our young people will enter workplaces, universities, training organisations and community settings where expectations around presentation, safety, professional dress and appropriate conduct will apply. Learning to meet reasonable standards, even when they may not always reflect personal preference, is an important part of preparing young people for life beyond school. We appreciate the support of parents in reinforcing these expectations and helping our students understand that wearing their uniform well is one small but meaningful way of demonstrating pride, responsibility and respect.

As we conclude another full term, I thank our students, staff and families for the energy and commitment they continue to bring to our college community. I hope the upcoming break provides everyone with an opportunity to rest, reconnect with family and friends, and return refreshed for the final term of the year.

Regards,

Susan Macdonald

Principal