I must admit last week was such an enjoyable week shared with many of you within our college community. It was great to see you all at both the Annual Music Concert and the 2023 College Graduation. As a school we were so proud to see our students shine, be recognised and celebrated for their achievements. I know that those of you in attendance share similar sentiments to us. Celebrating the achievements of our students, your loved ones, is an important component of a young person’s self-efficacy and confidence, yet at times we allow the hustle and bustle of our busy lives to prevent us from fully stopping and recognising their achievements. I certainly make it part of my daily routine to observe and then acknowledge as many achievements as possible, no matter how big or small, that our students attain. Seeing the smile when recognised makes it so worthwhile.

Annual Music Concert: A Performance like no other!

With that in mind, I want to say a big thanks to our Music staff and all others who supported our students in preparation for, and on the night of the Annual Music Concert. The night was amazing, and we had a full house in attendance. Every one of our Music students who performed sounded truly fantastic. Music has a rich history at Newcomb Secondary College and this year’s crop of very talented musicians have certainly added further to what is a very important and widely celebrated feature of our college. To Mrs Stabryla, Mr Crowther, Mrs Burke ‘congratulations and well-done’. Thanks also Mr Unmack for your role as Master of Ceremonies on the night.

Class of 2023: A Graduation to remember!

Last Thursday night’s Graduation for the Class of 2023 was, without doubt, one of the best events ever staged by the college (at least in my time at the school - both as a student and teacher). Held in 1915, and in front of over 200 attendees, our Class of 2023 were sent off in great fashion in what was a night of celebration, dancing, good food and in the company of family, carers and friends. Many stories were told of the highlights and moments of challenge that featured as part of each student’s 13 years of schooling. It was pleasing to see this tight knit group of students enjoy the night together- it will be a night, and a phase of their young lives that they remember forever.

There were several staff members who contributed towards the planning and facilitating of the 2023 Graduation. Thank you to Mrs Leech, Mrs Reed, Mrs Dedini, Mrs Honeywell, Mrs McInnes, Mrs Boland, Mrs Hill, our college Administration team and staff who supported and attended on the night.

VCE Exams: ‘Go well’.

This week our VCE Unit 4 students have commenced their exams- the first being the English exam on Tuesday. I always hesitate to say ‘good luck’ to students when about to be tested, whether that be academically, on the sporting field or in life. Rather, I prefer to say ‘go well’ because being tested in life and realising achievement should never be about luck- the outcome should reflect the effort put in. In the end, you should strive to do your best and walk away satisfied with an outcome that should be a true measure of your preparation leading into the event. So, to our students, you have prepared well over the journey so enter the exams confidently and ‘go well’! I look forward to celebrating the outcomes with you all prior to the end of 2023.

Have a great week!

Regards,

Mr McLeod

Principal