Head of Secondary School
Learning Experiences
Yr 11 have approached their examinations with maturity and calmness this week, as Yr 12 conclude their final lessons before the end of the term and celebrate with their House peers at the House Morning teas, which have taken place for them at Tutor time each day this week. It’s been a joy to hear from House Captains and Redlanders from the past few graduating years who have returned to provide advice and encouragement to the Class of 2024.
It’s been great to hear the joy in the students’ conversations about the cocurricular and sport dinners they’ve been attending in the evenings and see them prepare for the start of the Summer Sport season. Yr 7, 8 and 9 are travelling well in the lead up to the end of term and aware their Term 4 examination blocks are on the horizon. It’s certainly a productive time of the term and the learning buzz on campus is palpable as students consolidate and extend themselves across a variety of spheres.
Tomorrow we announce the Student Leadership Body for the 2024/2025 academic year. We had a significant number of students nominate for a student leadership position this year and were overwhelmed by the talent, passion and commitment to School and service during the application process. While this time is one of celebration, especially for those elected into formal positions, it can also surface feelings of disappointment, upset and even anger, for those not selected. A range of emotions is typical and normal. We lean into our processes and support mechanisms at this time and encourage parents who have concerns about their child’s wellbeing to normalise these feelings and make contact with the Year Advisor or Dean of Students for additional support.
Student and Community Safety Update – Stay in Place Drill
Evacuation and Stay in Place drills are an essential part of our safety and risk management practices at School.
We treat drills as if they are real and model our response to the students as a learning exercise. In the Secondary School, the students are excellent at drills. They respond appropriately and calmly and I always feel so privileged to lead the community when I see how maturely the students approach an evacuation.
In the coming weeks we will be holding a Stay in Place drill, formerly known as a ‘lockdown’. Many things can prompt a Stay in Place but in essence, a Stay in Place occurs when there is a real or perceived danger to the School site, and a Stay in Place is a measure to enhance student and staff safety.
A clear procedure exists for us to navigate a Stay in Place drill and our students know the secret message that is relayed to them which is a signal to adopt ‘stay in place’ measures. There are also clear processes for communicating with students after the drill the purposes of the drill and the affirmation they are safe. Year Advisors know when the drill will take place and usually have key information about students so they can support anyone who may feel excessively heightened or unable to manage their distress. If you would like to provide any additional context as to why your teenager may need additional support to navigate this drill, then please reach out to the Year Advisor before the end of this week.
Redlands SS School Climate Survey Summary (Post-Survey)
This term, Redlands Secondary School conducted an anonymous School Climate Survey among students in Years 7–11 (optional for Year 12) on the Cremorne campus, achieving an 85% response rate. The survey aimed to gather feedback on the school environment, unwanted behaviours and positive student contributions.
Key findings indicated that students are enjoying their school experience. Unsurprisingly, most students are enjoying socialising during breaks, while physical activities like basketball and handball were popular among Stage 4 and 5 students. Students expressed satisfaction with most campus areas and have provided some valuable feedback and suggestions on how some physical environments can be improved. The School has started to work with the SRC to review playground facilities.
In terms of unwanted behaviours, out of those reported, most had only one mention. Very few students were mentioned two or more times. Many reports were linked to behaviours the school was aware of and was currently or had already addressed. Those identified as engaging in unwanted behaviour or receiving unwanted behaviour are being provided support by our Pastoral Care team.
Positive behaviour reports were high, with 551 submissions, recognising traits like kindness, authenticity, inclusivity and respect. Students with multiple mentions were recognised in Student Led Assemblies, receiving a ‘Step Beyond’ Award.
The next survey will be conducted in 2025 to ensure ongoing improvements in school culture.
House Spirit Screen
This week, the House Spirit Screen was launched outside Redlands Hall. It’s an exciting new feature that keeps students up to date with real-time House Point scores and recognises top achievers in Athletics, Swimming, Cross Country and Gala Arts from various Year Groups. The screen also highlights our “Step Beyond” recipients, showcasing students who have shown outstanding effort and leadership within their Houses. We hope this display fosters a sense of school spirit and encourages even more participation in House activities.
Learning Plus Volunteers
Learning Plus (support) are looking for volunteers with weekday availability and a desire to contribute regularly to the Redlands student community working with Yrs 7-12.
We need calm and confident community members who understand confidentiality. We need writers (scribes) and readers. You need to have legible handwriting and the ability to communicate in English.
Our volunteers find this a rewarding activity and a fantastic way to support students at Redlands.
We need volunteers to start training now!
Contact sprovisions@redlands.nsw.edu.au to express your interest or request more information.
Ms Gemma Van de Peer
Head of Secondary School
gvandepeer@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9811