With the start of a new academic year I was once again reminded of why I love working in a school where every twelve months we start anew. I would like to extend a warm welcome to our new students and our Year 7 students who arrived looking so fresh in their new uniforms and mostly bright eyed and eager to begin their journey at the College. Timetables and maps were given out and there was such a buzz as they navigated their way around our ‘large’ campus.

A huge thank you to our Year 10 Student Counsellors who so ably assisted the Year 7 students as they embarked on their LJBC Orientation Voyage gathering ‘visa’ stamps in their passports, keyrings, House coloured jelly beans, special pens and icy poles as they familiarised themselves with our College campus. I was once again reminded of how young our students are when a student asked if lunch time was to eat or play? Smiles and a sense of excitement was felt and quite evident in their outlook.

Our returning students quickly settled into their friendship groups reflecting on the summer break, discussing their new teachers and anticipating what the new year will bring. New students have been given a buddy who will help them to settle in to their new environment developing that all important sense of belonging.

On Friday 1 February, the 2019 Student Council enjoyed their Induction event where they were challenged by the indoor wave, surf pool and climbing challenges at Aloha Surfhouse. House meetings allowed the teams to brainstorm their ideas over Krispy Kreme’s on improving what the Houses already do so well. Seeing the Heads of House join in the challenges displayed the collaborative commitment of all to their House. I look forward to the colourful ideas and rivalry that 2019 brings.

Term 1 is a busy term with the Inter House Swimming Carnival which took place on Wednesday 13 February. All Lower Secondary students participated in the carnival that was held at the HBF Arena while the Senior Secondary students joined the carnival at 12.00pm. On February 21 and 22 the Year 7 overnight camp allowed our students to get to know each other better  before they elect their student councillors on Friday 8 March. Last night (28 February) our Year 12 students enjoyed their much anticipated Year 12 Ball which is one of the highlights on the Year 12 calendar. You will also see them wearing their 2019 Class Jackets from now on, which is something that they have been eagerly waiting for.

Staff have been well prepared for the year ahead having completed their CPR updates, Mandatory Reporting and Grooming Professional Learning prior to students arriving at the College. The Student Services Team have developed both personal and professional goals which were facilitated by John Kipps allowing us to break down our big picture thinking into more tangible small goals.

Ultimately, as we embark on 2019 I challenge all students to get involved in everything that the College has to offer, developing a positive attitude to all that you do and appreciating the beauty and uniqueness of each individual.

Helen Del Frate

Dean of Students