As we head towards the middle of our final term for 2023, rather than slow down, the rhythm of a school tends to accelerate somewhat at this time of the year. Although this may not be the case for our graduating class of 2023, who have finished their HSC Exams and are now contemplating post school life and preparing for their Formal in 2 weeks time and the release of HSC results on 15 December. We wish our Year 12’s every success for the future. For the rest of the student population, they are currently in the process of finishing off their final assessment tasks for the year, staff are busy marking and writing reports, along with planning for 2024. 

Despite the significant interruption on Tuesday with the cancellation of classes, the remainder of the week proceeded relatively unscathed as Yrs 7 & 8 conducted PAT testing as a means of getting a quick gauge on their progress in Literacy and Numeracy and Year 12 took part in their Retreat.  I would like to thank all staff and students for their involvement in these activities and to the Mount Carmel Community for their support and understanding with respect to the blackout on Tuesday. 

The next week will also feature a range of learning and wellbeing initiatives which are listed below:

• Year 9 YAM Mental Health presentations on Tuesday (first of 3 consecutive weeks)
• Lesson Swap Wednesday to Friday A in lieu of Staff PD Day. Pastoral Assemblies on Wednesday Period 1 for years 7, 8,10 & 11
• Year 9 YourChoicez Respectful Relationships presentation on Wednesday
• Staff Resuscitation Training over next 3 weeks commences on Tuesday afternoon after school
• Staff Development Days Friday 10 and Monday 13.

Thanks to all staff and students for their anticipated involvement in the planning, preparation and participation in these activities. Thanks also to our  parents and carers who are making alternative supervision arrangements on the staff development days so that all staff can participate in this worthwhile professional development opportunity.

Mr Simon Huntly