Newsletter- Term 4 Week 12 2023

I cannot believe that this is the last newsletter article that I will be writing for 2023! What a year it has been- so many highlights. Can I start by thanking all of the dedicated and highly professional staff here at Newcomb Secondary College. Working in Education is a tireless and often thankless job and off the back of significant disruption over the last few years and a shortage of new staff joining the industry, the role is becoming ever more challenging. That said, the rewards and satisfaction from supporting students and our wonderful community remain just as significant and fulfilling as always. You will not find a more innovative, committed, resilient and caring set of staff anywhere- I can’t thank them enough and I am sure you too appreciate all that they do in support of your student, family, and community.

It is with sadness for the school, but excitement for these staff, that I need to announce who will not be returning in 2024 to Newcomb Secondary College. May we wish the following staff well as they embark on opportunities elsewhere in 2024- Melissa Jones, Jeremy Sinclair, Aphra Millis, Phil Walker, Julia Western, Joe Lewis and Torrie Pugliese. Can I also recognise and congratulate the following staff on their retirement after many years of service in education- Cheryl Stabryla and Peter Drummond. You will all have a special place in the hearts of the Newcomb Secondary College family, and we are excited to hear of the adventures that make up the next phase of your life journeys.

Welcome Back Bike Tour!

On Friday last week we welcomed our Bike Tour students back from their weeklong Tour de Otway’s adventure. The journey was immense and the participants, our staff, and students, returned a little weary however all did so with a smile on their face, a sense of achievement and many stories to tell. The annual Newcomb Secondary College Bike Tour is the stuff of legends- it has a special place in the history of our great school. This year’s edition was equal to any- thank you to the staff who, without them, this opportunity would not be possible. I also need to thank every student participant who took part- the feedback we received from community members of the towns cycled through and the campsites you stayed in was very complimentary- congratulations.

Parent Opinion Survey

At Newcomb Secondary College we value our community involvement in the college. We listen to and respect how we are perceived by our community and where we can further improve our relationships and connections. This year’s Parent Opinion survey returned a very pleasing set of outcomes. It was pleasing to see that Newcomb Secondary College rated above similar schools and state average for-

• Positive Transitions
• Parent participation and involvement
• School Communication
• Teacher Communication
• Respect for Diversity
• School Improvement
• School Satisfaction
• School Pride and Confidence
• Physical Environment
• Effective Teaching
• High Expectations for success
• Stimulated Learning Environment
• Student Motivation and Support
• Confidence and Resiliency skills
• Student Voice and Agency

These outcomes show that Newcomb Secondary College is a school that cares about all members of the community. We are a school committed to being a community leader. This impressive set of data was presented to our college council at our recent meeting, and I would like to say a big thankyou to Micheal Graham (School Council President) and all members of the school council for their passion, commitment, diligence, support, and counsel in ensuring Newcomb Secondary College continues to be the best possible school for our all aspects of our community.

Preparing for 2024

I'd like to take this opportunity to encourage you to dedicate time over the holiday break to ensure that your student is prepared for 2024 and returns to the school ready to learn. This may mean purchasing new or updating tired school uniform items. It could mean setting goals and targets based on the feedback from 2023. It may mean a discussion and plan to avoid using a mobile phone whilst at school or supporting your student in forming positive relationships. Whatever this opportunity looks like for you and your student, it is just important to have the discussion and devote time to action what is needed. We look forward to all students returning in 2024, safe, well and prepared for an exciting year of learning and growth.

In closing, stay safe, have a great break doing whatever makes you happy and we look forward to seeing you in 2024!

Regards,

Mr McLeod

Principal