Dear Parents/Carers, Students and Friends of Prospect High School,

We are so pleased to have all students back at school. Most students have adjusted to face-to-face learning and are enjoying the company of friends and settling back into school routines. There are some students who, understandably, are experiencing some anxiety, whether it be returning to school routines, or concerns about the pandemic and struggles families are still enduring. We have been offering a range of support both with learning and wellbeing.

On return to school, students have been reviewing procedures and processes and following new guidelines for safety and hygiene. Revision of work in all subjects has been a priority, as has reconnecting and re-establishing relationships. 

In addition, students and staff have also reflected on the opportunities that online learning has provided. An increase in technological skills and greater independence with learning have been two positive outcomes for students. Teachers have also increased their technological skills and used different ways to assess and give feedback to students. Feedback from parents has been supportive of the awesome efforts teachers have made to make the online learning accessible and engaging to all students. We will use results from student and staff surveys as opportunities to continue with some new practices with future learning.

Staffing

This week we farewelled Education Facility Attendants (EFA) Hailiegh Wise and Simone Denman. Many thanks for their work, particularly in Terms 1 and 2 during the COVID-19 period.  Welcome to new EFA team members, Will Fox and Margaret Perri and Aboriginal Education Officer, Gareth Holt.

Transition

Grade 6-7 transition has been very creative this year taking advantage of the online platform. We are pleased that there has been an easing of restrictions and will be conducting an information evening for parents on Tuesday, 30^th June 5.15 - 6.30pm. Parents of Grade 6 students please contact the office if you have not received an invitation to this.

Exams

Grade 10 exams will not be compulsory for all students this year, because we need this time for learning due to COVID-19 interruptions. However, for students who would like to try an exam before they enrol in Grade 11, we will offer an “exam type experience” where students are tested on all the work that has been covered so far in the year. (This opportunity will be particularly useful for students intending to enrol in level 3 and 4 TASC subjects in Grade 11). It is envisaged that exams will be held at the start of Term 4. Students have been asked to think about whether they would like to participate in an “exam type experience” this year to help prepare for Grade 11 next year. Parents are encouraged to talk about future pathways and whether an exam experience would be beneficial for their child.

Reminders

Students have been reminded when leaving school at the end of the day that they are to walk straight home. Residents have reported students disturbing neighbouring properties. This behaviour is not tolerated and should cease immediately.

Students have also been reminded to leave their mobile device and/or earphones in lockers from 8:35am (when the first bell goes) until 3:00pm (when the last bell goes). This includes smart watches.

Thank you

Staff enjoyed delicious cupcakes last week for morning tea made by a parent of the PHS community. This lovely gesture was to “say a massive thank you to all staff at PHS for being so amazing during Covid”. She wanted everyone, including teaching staff, cleaning, administration and grounds staff, “to be applauded for their efforts”. Thank you for your thoughtfulness, it was much appreciated by all.

Farewell International Students

On Tuesday, we farewelled our international students from Brazil, South America who have been with host families and attending Prospect High School this year. The girls enjoyed the last couple of days of their stay visiting Mole Creek Caves, Cradle Mountain and City Park. The girls adjusted to our school and state with ease, and Prospect High School students have enjoyed learning about their country and culture. Cradle Mountain will be remembered as a favourite place and pavlova a favourite food! The girls have exams on their return and then university. We wish them well, and hope they have fond memories of their stay. Many thanks to host families and teachers and staff at Prospect High School, in particular Mrs Tatiana Hinds, Mrs Debbie Chancellor, Mrs Sonya Matthews, Mr Scott Brewer, Mr Brad Colson and Mrs Rosalie Flood.

Communication for parents/carers – Please see an item in this edition about current permissions.

Mrs Lee Barker
Principal