Assistant Principal – Karen Shawcross
What a magnificent finish to the school year. Congratulations to all our students on their exceptional effort and hard work throughout the final term.
College Picnic Day
Our recent Picnic Day at Luna Park was a wonderful success and a fantastic way to usher in the holidays. A huge thank you to the large number of students who attended. While the clouds certainly gave us a scare, they held off, and the rain stayed away. Between the rides and the indulgence in fairy floss, everyone had a brilliant time, providing a perfect end to the year.
Year 11 2026 Transition
Last week, we hosted our Year 11 2026 Transition Day for the students who will be continuing their senior studies with us. The day was filled with activities designed to prepare and inspire them. One highlight of the day was the time spent in Coolongatta House with our current Year 12 cohort. These senior students shared invaluable “tips and tricks” for navigating Year 11, passing on their wisdom and experience. Each student was presented with a new folder for their notes and books, along with a special Year 11 Survival Kit. I eagerly anticipate seeing their personalised decorations on those folders next year, our current Year 12s have demonstrated how effective and well organised these binders can be.
House Competition Results
The House competition has been a fierce and spirited affair throughout the year, offering numerous opportunities for students to earn points. This culminated in a final, highly competitive House vs. House Sports Afternoon last Thursday. House leaders were also very competitive and cheering louder than some of the students.
At our final assembly, I was delighted to announce the overall winning house for 2025. We will have the pleasure of presenting the prestigious House Shield to the winning House Captains at our first assembly of 2026.
I must also acknowledge the phenomenal effort in collecting merits this year. A staggering total of 13,971 merits were issued across the school, each one contributing to their House’s final score. This is a true testament to the outstanding commitment and positive contributions of all students.
Ensuring Safety: The e-Bike Safety Program
As we see an increasing number of students riding e-bikes to school, their safety on the roads is a paramount concern. To address this, we will be implementing the E-bike Safety Program in 2026. All students who intend to ride their e-bike to and from school must first complete a mandatory E-bike Safety course. This online course covers essential topics including:
- Road rules and riding etiquette
- Safe riding practices
- Legal responsibilities and helmet use
- Emergency response and hazard awarenessS
Upon successful completion of the online course your daughter will be issued an electronic ebike ID and a unique ID tag. The ID tag displays a number that is linked to the student and attached to the ebike when travelling to and from school. Further information regarding this program and the time frame for completing the course and displaying the ID tag on the e-bike will be sent to all parents prior to the commencement of the 2026 school year. This program is designed to work collaboratively with parents to ensure all our girls are equipped with the necessary knowledge of road rules, promoting safety for everyone on the road.
Important 2026 Return Dates and Reminders
I am looking forward to welcoming everyone back for another exciting academic year in 2026.
- Wednesday, 28 January: Year 7, Year 11, and Year 12 students return (summer uniform). Year 7 will be dismissed at 12.20pm.
- Thursday, 29 January: All other students commence (summer uniform not sport)
Please use the holiday break to ensure uniforms are ready for the new year. A kind reminder that skirts must be at the correct length (on the knee), and College guidelines regarding jewellery and makeup (including nail polish) must be strictly followed. Let’s work together for a positive and compliant start to 2026.
I wish you and your families a blessed, safe, and restful Christmas break, filled with joy, family, and friends.
Karen Shawcross, Assistant Principal
