FROM THE ACTING HEAD OF SECONDARY

The school has implemented improved communication methods for parent approvals for excursions, Co-Curricular activities, and events.  Parent approval for all activities is now being managed via the Parent Lounge on GECO.  The simplest way to access this is via the new ‘Orbit’ app and all families are encouraged to transition to this as their primary method for accessing school information.

Parents will receive notifications when there are new events to approve.  We ask that parents please check in on a regular basis to ensure all approvals are actioned in a timely manner.

The Orbit app, which supports all phone operating systems, can be downloaded here.

Camp Week

Week 2 sees the secondary school commence our program of camps for Years 7-9 and 11, World of Work Week for Year 10, and assessment preparation for Year 12, culminating in the Year 12 Formal.

Staff have been preparing well to manage these complex events and we look forward to rewarding experiences for all.  If students are unable to attend, parents are asked to communicate with the relevant Head of Year.

Digital Education

This week, students have received education on important topics relating to the internet and the law. Guest speaker Susan McLean educated students on the themes of Respect, Responsibility and Reputation, and how to minimise personal risk. Key discussions were held on topics including:

• Digital reputation
• Cyber bullying
• Online Grooming
• Sextortion
• Consent

We encourage parents to have open conversations with students on these topics as we help young people learn that choices in the online space have consequences in the offline world. 

We welcome the fresh opportunities that each new semester brings for our students, and encourage parents to reach out early if support is needed.

We are pleased to inform you that the subject selection process for the 2026 academic year is now underway.

Students in Years 7 to 9 are required to submit their subject preferences by Friday, 1 August at 3:00 PM. Each student will receive an email titled "Subject Choice 2026", which contains a unique weblink and code to access the online selection form.

Students in Year 10 will have the chance to submit their preferences between 28 July and 15 August.

It is important that students take the time to carefully consider their choices. The school timetable and resource allocations are built around these preferences, and our primary goal is to ensure as many students as possible are successfully placed in their preferred subjects. Subject changes made after the timetable is published can significantly impact the efficiency of this process and will be limited.

We appreciate your support in encouraging thoughtful and timely selections. If you have any questions or would like further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out via email or arrange a time to speak with the relevant Head of Year, the pathways team, or me in person.

Chris Straughan
Acting Dean of Curriculum