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I will begin by commending staff and students on the way that the school year has commenced. The collective commitment to our focus areas of lining up with correct materials at the start of class, entering the room and sitting without devices opened and leaving the room in a neat and tidy state post session have all been very pleasing and have made a positive impact on the learning environment. The benefits of an orderly and predictable classroom are many, but with student growth and outcomes at the centre of any intervention, this commitment has already proven to generate greater and more effective teaching and learning time, something we hold in high importance here at Newcomb Secondary College. 

You will note that in 2023 our Home Group program has been expanded. Students will have access to this program four times per week and for 23 minutes each session. During this valuable program, students will be supported in learning about being their best self, positive members of their communities (home, school, local and other), how to manage challenging situations sensibly and responsibly, as well as how to attend to their own wellbeing and support the wellbeing of others. This learning is a feature of Newcomb Secondary College’s Respectful Relationships curriculum, our School Wide Positive Behaviour program, our Berry Street Education Model support for students and the Newcomb Secondary College Positive Futures Framework (see below). Throughout the year, we will share resources with you at home and for all members of our college community to allow you to facilitate conversations with your student and participate in this very important life education program together with us. 

Term 1 is always an exciting term full of new beginnings, opportunities, events, and of course warmer weather! Upcoming events and opportunities to keep an eye out include: 

• Arthur Reed College photos 15th February
• Summer Sports Carnival 16th February
• Athletics Carnival 9th March
• Information Evening 3rd April 

Equally, we have excursions planned at each year level, SSG meetings, P/T/S Conferences, Elective Sport days and much more. We encourage you to keep an eye out on the College calendar and communications in the Newsletter and via Compass. It certainly is a busy time!

In last week’s Newsletter, you will have noticed an article on Attendance. It goes without saying that at Newcomb Secondary College we are strong advocates for students to attend school. If we learn nothing else from the recent past (lockdowns etc), being at school is so important for the growth and development of students. Social skill development and learning progress through school education equal positive outcomes and successful pathways for all young people. We encourage you to have frequent discussions with your child about attendance and active engagement in the learning programs here at Newcomb Secondary College, especially in those times when students will seek to have time away from school. We are here to support you in these discussions- please reach out if we can assist. We value and appreciate your support.

Scott McLeod, Acting Principal
James Murphy, Assistant Principal
Jeremy Sinclair, Acting Assistant Principal