What an amazing week we have had here at Como Secondary College.
The highlight was undoubtedly our fantastic Athletics Carnival. Blessed with beautiful weather, our staff and students embraced the day with enthusiasm, camaraderie and plenty of House spirit. It was wonderful to see so many students giving their best, whether competing for a podium finish, earning valuable points for their House, or simply having a go and supporting their peers.
Congratulations to all of our competitors, staff organisers and student helpers who made the day such a success. A special congratulations goes to Pine House, who secured a remarkable three-peat, claiming their third consecutive Athletics Carnival victory. An outstanding achievement and one that will certainly be remembered. They finished well ahead of Flame (red), and only just edged out Jacaranda (purple), who looked to have it in the bag for much of the day.
Speaking of purple and winning streaks, it seems not all teams wearing purple enjoyed the same success this week. Sorry, Dockers supporters, I couldn’t help myself. Let’s just say last night’s performance won’t be making any highlight reels anytime soon!
On the subject of purple, today we are proudly recognising Wear It Purple Day.
This day provides an important opportunity to demonstrate Como Secondary College’s commitment to maintaining a safe, welcoming and inclusive school culture where every student feels respected, valued and a genuine sense of belonging. By taking part, we send a clear message that all young people deserve acceptance, support and the opportunity to be themselves.
Wear It Purple Day is a national event established in 2010 to support LGBTQIA+ young people. It was created in response to concerns about the impact bullying and discrimination can have on the wellbeing of young Australians. The day encourages schools, workplaces and communities to show LGBTQIA+ young people that they are supported, respected and have a valued place within their community.
I have been incredibly proud to see our students and staff embracing this message today and demonstrating the kindness, understanding and respect that are such important parts of our College values.
This week we also recognised Education Assistant Appreciation Week, providing us with an opportunity to acknowledge the extraordinary contribution our Education Assistants make to our school community every single day. In schools, these are often the people who wear capes. They build meaningful connections with students, support families, assist teachers and work tirelessly to ensure that learning gaps are minimised and every student is given the opportunity to succeed. Much of their work happens quietly behind the scenes, but its impact is significant and far-reaching. At Como Secondary College, our Education Assistants are a vital part of our culture, and the support they provide helps make our school a welcoming, inclusive and successful learning environment. On behalf of our entire community, thank you for all that you do. Your dedication, care and commitment to our students is deeply appreciated.
Another important aspect of our school improvement journey is ensuring that student voice remains at the centre of our practice. Over the coming weeks, students will be completing PIVOT surveys, providing valuable feedback to teachers about their classroom experience. This feedback gives staff important insights into what is working well and areas where we can continue to improve. It allows us to acknowledge strengths while also identifying blind spots that, as educators, we do not always see ourselves. Most importantly, it helps us refine and strengthen the quality of instruction in our classrooms, which remains a key focus for us as a College.
As we continue developing the Como Way and shaping our 2030 Business Plan, I have been reflecting on what matters most for the young people in our care. At Como Secondary College, we are committed to supporting the rights and wellbeing of students as outlined in the Rights of WA Children and Young People framework. While this includes ensuring students are safe, valued, healthy and connected, our primary focus as a school is helping every student to learn successfully and participate fully in school life.
We want every young person to feel challenged, engaged and empowered to achieve their personal best. We also want them to have a voice, develop positive relationships and take an active role in the many opportunities our College provides.
Strong partnerships between school, families and the wider community are essential if we are to achieve these goals. As parents and carers, I encourage you to consider this question:
“How could Como Secondary College further strengthen students’ opportunities to learn, participate and succeed, while continuing to support their overall wellbeing, development and connection?”
Over the coming weeks, there will be opportunities for families to contribute their thoughts as we refine the Como Way and develop our vision for the future through the 2030 Business Plan. Whether your ideas relate to teaching and learning, student engagement, pathways, wellbeing, community partnerships or preparing young people for life beyond school, I would welcome your input. Together, we can ensure that the direction of our College reflects both the aspirations of our community and the needs of the students we serve.
We are also finalising enrolments for next year and are pleased to be seeing continued growth in student numbers. If you have a younger child who is yet to be enrolled, please submit your enrolment application as soon as possible. Likewise, if you know friends, neighbours or family members considering Como Secondary College, please encourage them to get their enrolment forms in promptly so that we can effectively plan for another successful year.
Finally, with Father’s Day being celebrated this Sunday, I would like to wish all of the fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers and father figures in our community a very happy Father’s Day. Thank you for the many ways you support, encourage and guide the young people in your lives. I hope you enjoy a well-deserved opportunity to spend time with family and create some special memories together.
As we head into the weekend, I would like to thank our students, staff and families for their ongoing contribution to the positive culture that makes Como Secondary College such a special place to learn and work.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Alen Kursar
Principal
