09 Jun 2023
Dear Parents and Carers
With only three weeks left of school before the July holidays, I want to emphasise the importance of students attending every lesson, every day. Consistent attendance leads to positive educational outcomes across all key learning areas and sets the foundation for success.
I want to express my sincere appreciation for your continuous support and involvement in your child's education. Your partnership with us is invaluable and plays a pivotal role in their academic journey. Thank you to both Campus P&C’s who provided our students with beautiful gifts for Mother’s Day last month. Together, we can create a nurturing and inspiring environment for our students to thrive and achieve their personal best.
I am excited about ArtWalk happening tonight. Our college has collaborated with students from our partner primary schools to create an impressive art installation, which will be displayed at the Hay Street forecourt, close to the Glasshouse. It's a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the creativity and talent of our students, and I encourage all families to make sure they see it.
I am proud to share that our college captains recently attended the Secondary Schools Leadership Program in Sydney. This program provided them with valuable insights into our system of government, parliamentary proceedings, and the role of the Governor. It was an honour for them to visit the NSW Parliament and see esteemed individuals like our local member Leslie Williams and meet Her Excellency, the Honourable Margaret Beazley. Their participation and the leadership skills they are developing are commendable.
National Reconciliation Week was a significant event across our college, commemorating milestones in Australia's journey towards reconciliation. As part of our reconciliation assemblies, we had the privilege of hearing Shanell Dargan's inspiring story. She shared her ambition of becoming the first Aboriginal boxing world champion and her journey of success on the X Factor. In observance of Sorry Day, a Walk was organised, culminating in the National Apology. Additionally, a "Sea of Hands" symbolising support for Indigenous rights and reconciliation was created. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Shanell and appreciate the college community's support during Reconciliation Week.
Our Westport Campus yarning circle was officially opened during reconcilation week, thanks to the remarkable efforts of the Tacking Point Lions Club, Mid North Coast Health and the invaluable guidance of the Hastings AECG. This yarning circle serves as a meaningful space for our community, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those involved in its creation, along with all who attended the opening ceremony.
Looking ahead, the Luminosity Youth Summit is scheduled from June 26 to 28 at the Glasshouse. This summit aims to inspire and uplift the leaders of tomorrow, offering an incredible face-to-face youth development and leadership experience. I encourage all students interested in leadership to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to gain fresh ideas, inspiration and lifelong skills.
The Lower North Coast Dance Festival, featuring our college dance groups at the Glasshouse, is just around the corner. Our talented dancers will be performing at different times, showcasing their creativity and passion. Please refer to the schedule provided in our newsletter to ensure you don't miss their fantastic performances.
Congratulations to our Year 10 student, Tuqiri Mason, for his outstanding athletic achievements. He recently surpassed a 20-year-old college record in both the open and 16 Year divisions by completing the 100-meter race in a phenomenal time of 10.92 seconds. The 20-year record was held by Adam Miller an accomplished Sprinter who represented Australia at the Olympic Games, World Athletics Championships, Commonwealth Games and World University Games. Tuqiri also excelled at the Zone Athletics Carnival, achieving remarkable results in various events. His dedication and talent are truly commendable, and we are incredibly proud of his accomplishments.
I want to take a moment to acknowledge our exceptional staff members who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure a safe and supportive environment for our students. Their dedication, expertise, and care are instrumental in shaping the educational experience we provide. We are fortunate to have such a passionate and committed team.
As a reminder, we celebrate the King's birthday this Monday, June 12th, which means it is a public holiday. I encourage you to make the most of this time by enjoying it with your family, taking a well-deserved break, and recharging yourselves.
Thank you for your ongoing support. Let's make these final weeks of Term 2 memorable and productive for our students.
Sincerely
Meaghan Cook
Hastings Secondary College Principal