Angelique Sanders, Director of Student Wellbeing

Dear Parents and Carers

Over the next few weeks, I will be visiting the Houses to hear about how they identify and live by their House values. This project has enabled each House to distinguish itself, sharing their mottos and showcasing what makes them an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. Listening to our students articulate the significance of community, respect, a sense of belonging, and the value of service underscores the strength of our House system. Our students are truly fortunate to have a place where they feel secure, embraced, and celebrated within the broader school community. This is fostered by the hard work and care provided by their Housemasters and Mentors as well as the student leaders who set the tone and culture within that House. Our Year 7s and 10s will have the opportunity to experience firsthand how drawing on individual strengths and differences can lead to a cohesive team as they head out on CITF later this term. Our Year 7s had a CITF meeting in SWP where they heard from Mr Harding (our CITF Coordinator), as well as our Year 10 CITF Mentors and had the chance to ask questions.

Year 12 were fortunate to hear from Michelle Lee, the first woman to row solo across the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean nonstop and unassisted. Her message to the students was about how important it is to act more intentionally, and to know the “Why” behind your actions. She also reinforced the need to be prepared when setting goals and that you need to welcome failures, celebrate wins and to embrace change.

Finally, as we near the end of the school term, some students may feel it is time to relax their standards. However, it’s important to emphasise to them that this is precisely the moment when they should remain focused on their assessments and finish the term on a high note. We do have ongoing conversations with our students about their behaviour and if we need to issue sanctions or consequences for poor decisions or actions we ask for your support and to trust in what we do best, that is, educate young people to be the best version of themselves.

Angelique Sanders
Director of Student Wellbeing