As we reach the end of Term 1, it's time to reflect on the progress and achievements of our students while also setting expectations for the future. We are immensely proud of the growth and success each student has shown this term. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child's education. 

Firstly, I want to celebrate the success of all our students in their respective subjects. Whether it's mastering a new concept in math, expressing creativity in art, demonstrating critical thinking skills in English, or representing the school in sport, every student has made some progress and achievement. This success is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the support they receive from you at home.

However, as we approach the end of term, I want to emphasise the importance of certain aspects crucial to your child's academic journey:

Regular Attendance: Regular attendance is key to academic success. Consistent attendance helps students build routines, stay engaged in learning, and develop important social skills. Please make every effort to support your child in attending school regularly unless circumstances absolutely prevent it.

Punctuality: Arriving to school on time sets a positive tone for the day and ensures that students don't miss out on valuable learning opportunities. Please encourage your child to be punctual and to prioritise their education by being present and ready to learn. Students should be at school no later than 8.20am in preparation to start learning at 8.40am. This may require students to catch public transport earlier than they are currently. I will be in contact with several parents/carers to discuss improving their children/s lateness Term 2.

Mobile phones policy: -Just a friendly reminder regarding the mobile phone policy at KHS: phones should be kept switched off and in the Yondr pouches during school hours to minimise distractions and promote a focused learning environment. Your cooperation in adhering to this policy is greatly appreciated in ensuring a conducive atmosphere for all students' academic success.

School Uniform: Wearing the school uniform with pride not only fosters a sense of belonging and unity within our school community but also sets a standard of professionalism and respect for oneself and others. We kindly request your support in ensuring your child wears the school uniform correctly and with pride. As we head into Term 2 and the weather becomes cooler students will need to wear a school jumper. Non-school jumpers and jumpers with hoods will not be allowed and I will ask students to remove them. Non-school jumpers will be taken off students. 

Bullying: On Tuesday assembly I spoke firmly to students about bullying and its impact on the school community. We are particularly focused on this area where all students have the right to feel safe and comfortable just as much as (if not more than) they do when they are at school.

If you bully people at this school- if you systematically target someone and make their lives miserable, you will, under normal circumstances be dealt with the constraints of the Suspension policy.

We also want all students to know that if they are being bullied, if you are being targeted and having your life made miserable, we want to protect you. There is nothing more important to us. 

We have a culture here to protect and to make sure that each and every student feels safe, and we will do what we need to do to make sure they are. We appreciate parents' support in speaking with their child about this too. Kindness and respect for individual's differences also needs to come from the home.

Parental Support: Supporting your child's education at home is crucial for their overall success and development. It is disappointing to see only approximately 15 families attend our Year 7 meet-the-teacher night, as parental involvement plays a significant role in a child's learning journey. When parents engage with their child's education, it reinforces the importance of academic effort and creates a supportive environment for learning. Students need to work just as hard at home as they do at school; this includes completing assignments, reading together, and discussing their day. By actively participating in their education, families can help instil a sense of responsibility and motivation in their children, ultimately leading to better academic outcomes and a more enriching school experience. Let's work together to encourage more families to engage, ensuring our students have the support they need to thrive.

As we conclude Term 1, it is important to reflect on the myriad of activities, competitions, and educational experiences that have enriched our students' learning journey. This term has been marked by significant achievements in academics, sports, and personal development, showcasing the vibrant and dynamic nature of our school community.

One of the key academic events this term was the participation of students in Years 7 and 9 in the NAPLAN assessments. These nationwide tests are crucial for evaluating literacy and numeracy skills, providing valuable feedback on student progress and areas for improvement. Our students approached these assessments with dedication and resilience, and we commend their efforts. The results will not only inform our teaching practices but also guide students in their future learning paths.

In addition to academics, Term 1 also featured our annual Cross Country event, which was a resounding success. Students from all grades participated enthusiastically, demonstrating not only their physical fitness but also their school spirit and camaraderie. The event fostered a sense of community and teamwork, with many students achieving personal bests. Our champions will have the opportunity to represent the school in upcoming zone competitions, and we look forward to cheering them on as they compete.

Sporting competitions were a highlight of this term, particularly in the Knockout series. Our school teams participated in Basketball, Volleyball, and Futsal, showcasing their skills and competitive spirit. The athletes displayed remarkable dedication and sportsmanship, making us proud. These competitions provide our students with invaluable experiences in teamwork and resilience, and we are excited to support them in their ongoing endeavours.

This term, we also prioritised leadership development opportunities for our students. Year 10 students participated in the UNSW Gateway Leadership Program, designed to cultivate leadership skills and encourage personal growth. This program allowed students to gain insights into effective leadership practices, preparing them for future challenges. Similarly, select Year 11 girls were invited to join the ABCN Leadership Program, which empowers young women through mentorship from industry leaders. This initiative is instrumental in helping them develop their leadership capabilities and career aspirations, fostering a new generation of confident female leaders.

Moreover, the term was rich in excursions that provided experiential learning opportunities for our students. The Support Unit students enjoyed a sailing experience with Winds of Joy, which promoted teamwork and confidence in a supportive environment. The Year 12 Geography class took a field trip to the Field of Mars Environmental Education Centre, where hands-on learning about environmental conservation and local ecosystems took place. Additionally, an incursion by Elephant Ed for Years 11 and 12 focused on essential life skills, preparing students for future challenges. The Year 12 Advanced English students attended a performance of Shakespeare’s "Richard III," which enhanced their understanding of the text through a dynamic and immersive experience. Finally, the Police Youth Engagement Officer presentation for Years 7 and 8 provided valuable insights into community safety and the role of law enforcement focusing on the misuse of technology.

In conclusion, Term 1 has been a vibrant and fulfilling time for our school community, marked by academic achievements, sporting events, and numerous enriching experiences. As we look ahead to Term 2, we encourage all students to continue engaging in their studies and participating in school activities. The dedication of our staff, students, and families has contributed to the success of this term, and we are excited about the adventures and achievements that await us in the coming months.