Principal’s Report

Principal’s Report

Dear Fortians, Parents and Carers,

I hope that you have all been well and enjoying what has proven to be a busy, productive, exciting and enriching Term 2 here at the Fort.

In addition to the business of teaching, learning and assessment, Fortians have had innumerable opportunities to engage in co- and extra-curricular activities, and have done so with enthusiasm and with high levels of engagement. Over the past few weeks, Fortians have participated in In Concert (NSW Secondary Choral Concert), a symphony orchestra collaboration, Basketball Gala Days, many excursions including the UNSW Model United Nations Day, the German Film Festival, the Chau Chuk Wing Museum and the Archibald Prize. There have been Duke of Edinburgh hikes, debating competitions, mock trials, and study skills workshops. I would like to take the opportunity to thank all staff who organise and support the huge array of initiatives and enrichment opportunities that are made available for students at this wonderful school.

As a History teacher, I was very thrilled to experience the Year 8 Castle Building Day which saw them engage with external presenters who showed them a variety of objects from the Medieval period; it goes without saying that this was well received by the Year 8 students who were highly engaged and enthusiastic. Following this, the students worked in groups to construct a Medieval castle that they had previously researched. I would like to thank the History faculty for providing students with such an engaging and creative way to complete assessment- not only were the students able to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of Medieval Europe, but showed skills in problem solving, collaboration and communication skills.

On Friday, 22nd May, Fort Street High School hosted the annual Future Leaders Conference, which was a resounding success and an absolutely inspiring day. The herculean efforts of the SRC Executive: Lucinda M, Ethan L, Jethro S-L, Beatrice S, Jane N, Tim W, Christopher A and Helen L came to fruition as we opened our gates and welcomed 400 student leaders from over 40 public school from across greater Sydney, Newcastle and the Illawarra. The theme this year was “Strong Minds, Strong Leaders”, and focused on the mental battles and challenges leaders endure, emphasised by a practical mindset, adapting to an evolving world. The conference consisted of some inspiring and engaging presentations from keynote speakers which included Mack Murphy, Emma Kocbek and Mark Loughran, a panel discussion facilitated by Dr Sunil Badami and comprising Andrea Muras, Hunter Karam, Emily Brown and Jess Miller. The day finished with students being broken into smaller groups to engage in team building, problem solving and collaborative activities designed by the SRC Executive. It was a humbling privilege to support the SRC Executive in planning and organising this extraordinary event, which to the best of my knowledge is entirely unique. The way in which they were able to work in close collaboration with each other, consider every small detail, problem solve and orchestrate something of this nature was exceptional. Equally impressive was the support provided by the rest of the SRC, who worked very hard on catering, logistics and making sure every guest who attended Fort Street High School felt incredibly welcome and connected.

In Term 2, all NSW Public Schools provide the opportunity for students, parents and staff to complete the NSW Public Schools Survey. This survey allows for schools to capture insights from students about their experiences at school. The survey covers a range of topics, including student engagement, learning experiences and wellbeing at school, and is one way that students can have a voice in their education. Similarly, the parent survey- information about which I sent out last week- gives you the opportunity to share your experience at our school, including communication, inclusion, wellbeing and how your child’s learning is supported. Survey results provide schools with actionable data to drive school planning, reporting and excellence, helping to identify strengths and areas for improvement. I strongly encourage you to complete the survey and encourage your young person to do so if they haven’t already.

I hope you all have a wonderful rest of Term 2, and I look forward seeing many parents and carers at the upcoming Parent-Teacher evenings and experiencing the many more exciting events, initiatives and activities that will be taking place as the Term continues.

Upcoming Events

Week 8

  • Talk UNSW Student Law Education Group
  • Year 12 Assessment block
  • 2026 Junior Science Olympiads (Year 7 – 10)
  • Combined Schools Science Mentoring Program
  • Sydney North Regional Cross Country
  • U15 CHS Netball Knockout
  • Student Anti-Racism Network

Week 9

  • Yr 11 Ancient History Excursion
  • Raise Mentoring 2026
  • Northern Suburbs Zone Athletics
  • Years 7 and 10 Parent Teacher Night
  • 2026 Great Barrier Reef Geography Tour
  • Year 10 Charity Committee Event (Bake Sale)
  • Diversity Committee 2026
  • IMP Concert with Harmonie Choirs

Week 10

  • Yr 11 English Extension Excursion
  • Years 8 and 9 Parent Teacher Night
  • Year 8 Subject Selection Night
  • Peer Support Leaders 2026
  • 12 Biology excursion to Museum of Human Disease UNSW
  • IMP Winter Concert