A successful end to another Term. It was wonderful to be able to greet parents again at the Parent Teacher Conferences, and also a very warm experience welcoming students into this evening. The education of young people is more successful when teachers, students and parents have a shared perspective, and together can support the goals which have been set with students.
It is a long time since I have experienced the joy of the Harvest Festival. Celebrating and the coming together of some of our youngest Orana community members alongside the High School and Senior College students is a wonderful occasion. The Harvest Festival was led by Class 3, Orana musicians, singing from the whole High School and Senior College and with Cassie Wright and Lawrence Pearce as the Harvest King and Queen. A time to be thankful, a time to cherish the riches we have produced and a time to share with those who are less fortunate than ourselves. It was also wonderful to see the generosity of our community in sharing with the Little Pantry. Thank you to Dan, Jacinta and Tiffany from Class 3, and Jen who choreographed the event from the High School campus.
The opportunities for our students did not slow down as the term drew to a close. Senior College students had a morning in the engineering labs at University of NSW – Canberra (ADFA) getting some hands-on experience to support their senior Science classes. Some of the activities included looking at jet engines, experiencing a sound proof room and seeing a super conductor in action. It is thanks to the relationships Emily and Ricardo have built with staff at ADFA over time that our students can have access to such world class facilities. Class 10 also have the opportunity to complete their Road Ready program, and I understand there will be a number of these students eager to put the L Plates on cars in the coming weeks and months. This is an important rite of passage for young people, particularly in Canberra, and we will continue to support our young drivers throughout their time at Orana. Thank you, Lis, for helping our young drivers set off on the right path.
Term 2 will also be a term filled with drama performances, culture, action and adventure, the P.A.R.T.Y program, Twilight Concert, Duke of Edinburgh hikes and Senior College and High School Information evenings. I would like to thank all High School and Senior College staff, administrative, support, site and IT staff for their support this term. Your professionalism, kindness and patience with my endless questions have been appreciated.
Susan Pascoe
