PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
Holy Week, the most important week of the Christian calendar, commences this Sunday. This week is a time for Christians to reflect on and remember the events leading up to Jesus' death and resurrection. Holy week begins with Palm Sunday, which commemorates Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, and ends with Easter Sunday, when we celebrate Jesus' resurrection.
Throughout Holy Week, we are called to participate in special services and traditions. I would encourage our families to consider attending local church services throughout Holy Week. One of the most significant events of Holy Week is Holy Thursday, which commemorates the Last Supper and Jesus' washing of his disciples' feet. Good Friday is also a solemn day, when Christians remember Jesus' crucifixion and death.
Despite the solemnity of Holy Week, it is also a time of hope and joy, as we celebrate Jesus' triumph over death and sin. Easter Sunday is a day of great rejoicing, as we gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and the promise of eternal life. As we approach Holy Week, let us take time to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus and the hope that he offers to all who believe.
Attendance - Improvement in Attendance Data
It is with great pleasure that I report an improvement in our attendance data that relates to an issue with reporting our Pupil Free days. This has improved our overall attendance data to 90.4%, and much closer to the ultimate target of 95%. If we can maintain this attendance rate through the year this would still be a good improvement on previous years.
John Therry Cyclic Inquiry and Strategic Planning
John Therry is undertaking a significant review to develop our strategic plan for the next 4 years. This will be driven by the data we have that outlines our current context, and importantly, feedback from students, parents and teachers on what we believe is working well, and what we can do to continue our improvement journery.
As such, we are trying to make the most of the Monday before ANZAC day, to have staff undertake some of this significant work. Monday 24th April will be a Pupil Free Day to complete this work. We hope that this works well for families as well who may be able to take advantage of an extra long weekend.
Parents will have the opportunity to provide feedback through a detailed 'Tell them from me' survey early next term. We would really appreciated parents taking the time to help shape the future direction of the school by completing this survey.
Year 7 2024 Applications - Overdue
A reminder for any siblings to apply as soon as possible. Applications are now overdue and we already have more applications than we have places available for next year. Interviews commence in Week 2 of next term so it is important to have applications in as soon as possible. There are no guarantees of places for siblings (or any students) for late applications as once offers have been made we will not rescind these.