Principal’s Report

We have had a fantastic start to Term 3, beginning with a staff professional learning day focused on Artificial Intelligence in education. This is a complex and evolving area that presents both challenges and opportunities, and it is essential that educators stay abreast of developments in order to navigate the impact of AI on teaching and learning across our school.

Our Year 10 students have actively engaged in the HSC subject information evening and have now submitted their subject selections for Year 11 in 2027. We are working hard to finalise class lines and aim to confirm student classes by the end of this term.

Year 12 students are currently completing their second week of HSC trial exams. This is understandably a challenging and stressful time for both students and their families. We congratulate them on their dedication, resilience, and maturity throughout this period. While a short break is well-deserved, it is important to note that classes will resume as usual on Monday, 10 August, as learning continues.

A special congratulations to our Society and Culture students, who have all successfully submitted their major works, including the Personal Interest Projects (PIPs). This marks a significant milestone in their HSC journey.

Our Year 9 and Year 10 debating teams have performed exceptionally well in the Premier’s Debating Challenge, with recent victories over Ashfield Boys High School — Year 9 on 30 July and Year 10 on 3 August. We commend the students for their commitment and articulate presentations.

On Monday, 3 August, the 2026 Public Education Awards were held at Sydney Town Hall, a prestigious event supported by the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, the Hon Prue Car, and the Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, Mr Murat Dizdar (Fortian 1990). We were proud to have our own talented Henry Shannon and Rose Moloney from Year 10 performing as part of the NSW Public Schools String Quartet.

Among 41 recipients honoured statewide with the Minister’s Award for Excellence in Student Achievement was our very own Grace Zarb from Year 12. This prestigious award recognises students excelling in academics, sports, culture, community, or leadership from over 2200 high schools in NSW — a remarkable achievement.

I would also like to express heartfelt thanks to the Fort Street Year 11 SRC executive students who volunteered as ushers at the event. We received thoughtful feedback from the Public Education Foundation emphasising how our students’ dedication and professionalism significantly contributed to the event’s success and enabled cost savings that funded scholarships for students in need. This is a wonderful example of our students making a real difference beyond our school community.

Congratulations once again to Grace and all our students for their achievements. Let us continue to support and encourage each other as we progress through Term 3.

Juliette McMurray

Principal