As we approach the end of Term 1 (can you believe we're already here?), I’d like to take a moment to congratulate all students on the outstanding effort they've shown in their learning and assessment tasks. This term introduced more structured assessment submission procedures for Stage 4 and 5, and it's been impressive to see how positively students have embraced these changes. Their approach reflects a strong commitment to excellence and a genuine dedication to their learning.

In Week 6, students in Years 7 and 9 completed the four NAPLAN assessments — part of the annual national testing program for students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 that evaluates key literacy and numeracy skills. These assessments provide valuable insight into student progress and help schools ensure key educational outcomes are being met. For the first time, our secondary students completed the tests in the school gym, offering them a taste of the formal examination environment. This experience will help students feel more confident and prepared as they encounter more formal examination settings in the years ahead.

In Week 9, our Year 12 students started their Half Yearly Examinations — the first formal exam block of their HSC journey, and will continue through to the end of Week 10. This experience plays a valuable role in preparing them for their final HSC exams in October. It was lovely to see students supporting one another, offering words of encouragement and standing together during this important milestone. I wish Year 12 all the very best for the remainder of their exams and hope the upcoming holidays provide a well-deserved opportunity to rest and recharge.

A reminder of submission details for each stage:

Stage 4 (Years 7 & 8)

• Task Submission: Due date and time are listed on the assessment notification.
• Task Extension: Must be requested from the teacher/KLA Leader at least one week in advance for approved reasons.
• Non-Submission (without reason): A grade penalty may be applied at the discretion of the KLA Leader for up to two weeks. After this period, an E grade will be issued.
• Illness/Misadventure: The student or a parent must email the class teacher on the day of the task, providing an explanation for non-submission.

Stage 5 (Years 9 & 10)

• Task Submission: Due date and time are listed on the assessment notification.
• Task Extension: Must be requested from the teacher/KLA Leader at least one week in advance for approved reasons.
• Non-Submission (without reason): A grade penalty may be applied at the discretion of the KLA Leader for up to two weeks. After this period, an N-warning will be issued.
• Illness/Misadventure: A formal application must be submitted to the KLA Leader (available on Compass), including a medical certificate or alternative approved evidence.

Stage 6 (Years 11 & 12) – NESA Mandated Rules

• Task Submission: Due date and time are listed on the assessment notification. Tasks must be submitted via the library assessment box with a cover sheet.
• Task Extension: Must be requested from the Leader of Learning and Teaching at least one week in advance for approved reasons.
• Non-Submission (without reason): The task will receive a zero mark, and an N-warning will be issued.
• Illness/Misadventure: A formal application must be submitted to the Leader of Learning and Teaching (available on Compass), including a medical certificate for each impacted day or alternative approved evidence.

I wish all families a happy and safe Easter holiday.

Cecilia Swift | Leader of Learning and Teaching