Dear Heatley Secondary College families

As we draw to the end of our first term, it’s time for students to reflect on what they have achieved so far this year and get set for Term 2.

This term we have had a distinct focus on the teaching of literacy skills in junior school (years 7 – 9) and by conducting walkthroughs of these English classes in particular, school leaders have certainly noticed an increased application in writing skills and an uptick in the demand to read more within the unit of work.  I am certainly looking forward to some improved results in our English Level of Achievement.

On that note, all students will receive an interim report at the end of this term.  This is the perfect opportunity to spend some time unpacking current results looking for positive outcomes and opportunities to improve.  For the first time, effort and behaviour will be graded on a 5 point scale with very clear markers for each grade.  I should point out that if your child receives an N rating for any of their subject areas, this is an indication that they have not completed/submitted enough work for the teacher to make a judgement on the standard of the work for the term. 

What brings you to Heatley Secondary College?

It’s a little known secret that one of the perks of being a school captain at Heatley Secondary College is that you get a free lunch at least once a term and the opportunity to sit down with me and other school leaders and provide advice and opinions about all things Heatley.  My school captains are the eyes and ears of the school and I take their opinions very seriously.

This week I asked them to tell me what it is that we do well at Heatley Secondary College (from a student perspective) and what sorts of things we could do to improve the College.  I was blown away by the depth of this conversation and also by the maturity of our College Captains.  Here’s what they told me:

THINGS WE DO WELL AT HEATLEY SECONDARY COLLEGE:

• This school is a community and everyone gets to know one another
• Because Heatley SC is a public school it offers many diverse opportunities People are accepting and supportive of others.  Heatley gives you the chance to develop an open minded attitude
• As a public school, Heatley has many options. It’s cheaper than a private school and it provides quality education for students with disabilities.  There are many pathways here
• Our facilities are unique! TCTC, PAC, The Cyclone Shelter…………
• The support for students from Clontarf, STARS and Wellbeing is amazing
• The teachers want you to do your best and they really support students
• The rock band
• The recording studio
• Engineering camp

WHAT’S ON THE WISH LIST:

• Newer lap tops (they’re on the way)
• Covered walkways to the Sports Hall, L Block
• More STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Maths)
• More ARTS (could we do a school musical?)
• Revamping classrooms (D Block is getting a facelift, so is E block and the Resouce Centre)
• More fundraising and discos (over to Student Council)
• Ideas for more clubs and ways to encourage students to get to every class on time everytime

With these young leaders in charge of our future, we are in good hands.  I’m looking forward to the senior captains representing us at the ANZAC dawn service this year and also working with all captains. Heatley Proud I can assure you.

As I sign off for the this term, I wish every one of you a safe and relaxing break and I look forward to seeing everyone back on deck on Tuesday 22 April after our final day on Friday 4 April.

I have my fingers crossed that the weather will be kinder to all of us in Term 2.

Kind regards

Melissa Jackson