A very busy Semester Two has begun for Year 10. Hopefully, most have taken the mid-year break as an opportunity to recharge and reflect on their progress over the first half of the year. In addition to the academic work students have done in the classroom, I’ve been lucky to have shared some of their moments outside the classroom that really demonstrated their best qualities:

• Dept of Primary Industries (Fisheries) tour at Port Stephens:The Marine & Aquaculture Technologies students visited this vast, hi-tech site to view the work they are doing in fields such as oyster farming and seahorse breeding. The staff at the DPI gave high praise of our students’ conduct and engagement with their research.
• STEM Careers Expo at Williamtown: STEM and Marine students showed outstanding civility and focus when listening to and engaging with 12 potential employers in the STEM and Defence-related industries.
• Athletics Carnival at Glendale: It was warming to see so many of our Year 10 cohort actively participating in a range of events, at a time in their schooling where interest in such events tends to wane. This is a strong example for our younger cohorts – well done Year 10!

Looking forward, we will continue to focus on building good academic habits. I met with the cohort earlier this week to outline expectations around homework and application in class, with an eye towards Year 11 and 12. If you would like any guidance or assistance in consolidating those behaviours at home, please get in touch!

Michael Quinn Year 10 Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement