As we move into the second half of the term, there has been a strong sense of momentum across the school, with a number of significant events and opportunities taking place for our students.
Our Year 10 students are currently completing their exams. I encourage them to approach this period with focus and determination and reflect on the feedback you will receive to help goal setting for next semester. Similarly, I would like to extend my very best wishes to our Year 12 students as they prepare for their Semester 1 exams. This is an important milestone in their final year, and I know they will approach it with the commitment and resilience we have seen throughout their schooling.
This week also brings moments of reflection and cultural significance. We acknowledge National Sorry Day and mark the beginning of National Reconciliation Week, reminding us all of the importance of understanding, respect and unity. The South Perth Community Reconciliation walk this afternoon will provide participants with an opportunity to actively engage in this important national conversation. Hopefully, I will see many of you there.
Students have also been engaging in a range of enriching experiences beyond the classroom. From the Year 12 Outdoor Education bike expedition to interschool sport and career-focused excursions such as the Indian Ocean Defence and Security Exhibition and EMITS at Murdoch University, these opportunities continue to broaden horizons and connect learning to future pathways. I spoke to many students today who really enjoyed the experience and have had their eyes opened to the multitude of careers and programs out there.
A reminder that applications for our Specialist Programs close this Friday. I encourage families to ensure submissions are completed by the deadline.
Looking ahead, please save the date for the Como Cabaret on Thursday 25 June. This promises to be a highlight of the term, showcasing the creativity and talent of our students. Ticketing information will be shared shortly.
Following on from last week’s update regarding the Como Way, we are continuing to seek feedback from our community. This work is important as we strengthen a shared understanding of what it means for all of us to continue learn, behave and contribute positively, not only at Como Secondary College but out in the community as well. As part of this process, we are also placing a greater emphasis on metacognition, supporting us to think about our own thinking, to reflect on how we learn best, and to take greater ownership of our own continued growth and development. Developing these habits not only improves learning outcomes but also helps all of us become active, thoughtful and responsible citizens. It really is learning how to control the narrator in our own head, rather than let that voice control us. I hope you can all join us and contribute to this journey.
We have also heard feedback from families regarding communication, and we are keen to get this right. As teachers, we both want to, and need to, maintain strong communication with parents and carers so that we can work together to achieve the best outcomes for students. At times, however, this can feel overwhelming, with multiple messages coming through different channels. We want to better understand your experience: is communication too frequent, not frequent enough, or are key messages being missed? In the coming weeks, we will be sharing a short survey to gather your thoughts, feedback and, importantly, your suggestions for how we can improve the clarity, timing and impact of our communication.
Finally, with the WA Day long weekend upon us, I hope all members of our community are able to take some time to rest, recharge and enjoy time with family and friends.
Have a great long weekend.
Alen Kursar
Principal
