Head of Secondary School

Farewell Term 2

Tomorrow we conclude the term with two formal School assemblies; Year 9-11 and Year 7-8. Students host the assemblies, deliver personal reflections and enjoy the musical talents of their peers. They also hear from me and Mr Corcoran and receive Academic Awards for Semester One. Year 12 spend the morning focused on Giving Back to the local community, a School service initiative, and then leave early to ready themselves for the Year 12 Formal – always a glamorous affair.

It’s been a marvellous term, full of events, celebrations, community mindedness and peer support. Year 10 have made some significant decisions about Stage 6 and our current Stage 6 students have been role models for the junior Year Groups. Years 7 and 8 have been great listeners and very much enjoyed the Year 12 Student-led assemblies. Year 9 have been exceptional tour guides, leaning into the wisdom and experiences of Year 10. The students continue to impress me with their self-awareness, kindness and strong communication skills.

Musical Talent

The Senior Music Festival, held last Friday night at The Concourse, Chatswood, was an extraordinary community evening showcasing the talent of our Secondary students. It was certainly a kaleidoscope of joy and our Year 12 Captains were incredible hosts. A huge congratulations to the students and staff involved – it was an amazing experience for the students and a pleasure to watch. The Contemporary Music Maker on Monday evening was also a highlight. Our five Yr 12 IB Higher Level Music students presented their Contemporary Music Maker projects. These student-led projects were the result of collaborations across musical, artistic and logistical domains, designed and executed by our students. The projects ranged from live musical compositions and performances accompanying dramatic monologues, musicals, and short films, tackling complex themes and issues.

Engagement leads to better mental health outcomes

Five Habits for Better Mental Health article by The Educator

The three-week holiday is a much-needed break for our young people. Some may be able to use this time to relax and unwind from a busy term. Others may need to re-set and engage in routines to support their Semester 2 success. Either way, we know that the holiday period affords students an opportunity to practise wellbeing strategies in support of their mental health. Researchers from Macquarie University found that when volunteers stopped engaging in regular activities associated with good mental health, such as talking with friends and exercising, they struggled within a week.

A Macquarie University clinical trial, with the goal of empowering people with mild to moderate anxiety and depression to manage their mental health, led to the development of ‘The Big 5’ – an evidence-based program promoting five types of activities strongly linked to good mental health. We think these would be a supportive focus for all students over the 3-week holiday period.

Healthy Thinking: Thinking realistically about oneself, the world, and the future, and treating oneself with respect, especially in difficult situations.
Planning for the Future: Engaging in activities that involve planning and preparing for future events or goals.
Engaging in Meaningful Activities: Participating in activities that provide a sense of accomplishment, satisfaction, or joy.
Maintaining Healthy Routines: Establishing and sticking to healthy routines such as cooking and eating healthy meals, having a regular bedtime, and getting regular exercise.
Connecting with Friends and Family: Interacting with friends and family at least four times a week.

Term 3/4 Departure Notice

As we are approaching the mid-point of the year, this is a reminder that those families who are planning on leaving the School during or at the end of Terms 3 or 4 are required to give notice to the Principal via an email to admissions@redlands.nsw.edu.au by the following dates:

Term 3 Departure: Friday 28 June 2024 (tomorrow)
Term 4 Departure: Friday 26 July 2024

As per the 2024 Schedule of Fees emailed to all families in December last year, there will be fees in lieu payable for any notices of departure received after these dates.

Ms Gemma Van de Peer
Head of Secondary School
gvandepeer@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9811