Hastings Secondary College

Excellence Innovation Opportunity Success

College Principal Message - 28 July 2023

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Dear parents and carers,

Welcome back to Term 3! I hope this message finds you and your families in good health and high spirits. We are excited to embark on this new term, filled with opportunities for growth and learning.

I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the parents, guardians, and students who attended the Subject Selection Evening last Thursday at Panthers for our Year 8 and Year 10 students. Your active participation and engagement during the event was very much appreciated. We believe that the process of selecting subjects is a crucial step in shaping our students' educational journey, and your support in this endeavor is invaluable. The Subject Selection Evening provided a platform for our students to explore their interests, passions, and career aspirations while making well-informed decisions about their academic paths. We sincerely hope that the event proved to be insightful and assisted in clarifying any queries related to subject choices for the upcoming academic year.

Additionally, we are pleased that our Year 10 students have the opportunity to participate in one-on-one interviews with our dedicated staff members across both campuses. These interviews are designed to provide personalised guidance and support, enabling each student to navigate their educational journey with confidence and purpose. Our staff is committed to understanding the unique strengths, interests, and goals of each student, and these interviews will play a significant role in tailoring their learning experiences accordingly.

The draft NSW Public Education Plan, released by Murat Dizdar, aims to bring about a transformative impact on the lives of students through public education in New South Wales, Australia. The overarching purpose of this plan is to create a system that not only imparts knowledge but also nurtures personal growth, a sense of belonging, and equitable opportunities for all students.

The plan is driven by a strong commitment to ensuring that every student in the state has access to a high-quality education that meets their individual needs and enables them to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. It focuses on creating an outstanding educational environment that fosters excellence while also prioritizing equity and inclusivity.

Some key aspects of the draft NSW Public Education Plan may include:

  1. Academic Excellence: The plan emphasizes the importance of delivering rigorous and challenging academic programs that align with the curriculum standards and encourage critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The goal is to prepare students to become well-rounded, informed, and engaged citizens.
  2. Holistic Development: Beyond academic achievements, the plan recognizes the significance of fostering the holistic development of students. This involves promoting their social, emotional, and physical well-being to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and resilience to navigate life successfully.
  3. Equity and Inclusivity: The plan is centered on creating an equitable education system where every student, regardless of their background, abilities, or circumstances, has equal access to opportunities and resources. It aims to eliminate educational disparities and address the needs of diverse learners.
  4. Community and Belonging: The plan emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of belonging and a positive school culture for students, teachers, and staff. Building strong connections between the school, families, and the wider community helps create a supportive environment that enhances learning outcomes.

This draft NSW Public Education Plan  represents a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to transforming the public education system in New South Wales. It envisions a system that not only imparts knowledge but also nurtures the personal growth and well-being of students, making education a powerful force in improving lives and creating a more equitable and prosperous society.

I have attached the links / pdf document regarding the 2 page Draft Plan for Public Education.

  1. Murat Dizdar and Pru Carr’s video – 10 mins 45 seconds.

  2. Here is a PDF copy of the plan.

  3. This link below explains how parents can provide feedback.

As we move forward into this term, I encourage you to maintain open communication with our teachers and support staff. I firmly believe that a collaborative effort between school and home is essential for the holistic development and academic success of our students.

Wishing you all a successful and rewarding Term 3!