As we near the end of Term 3, it’s remarkable to reflect on how quickly the past few months have passed. This is no doubt due to the many exciting events, memorable celebrations, and meaningful learning experiences that have filled the term, each showcasing the growth and achievements of our students. As we enter the final weeks, our focus turns to assessment and staying motivated to achieve. This is a vital time for students to demonstrate their learning and finish the term strongly by living out our College core values of Respect, Responsibility, and Perseverance. These values are especially important now, encouraging students to remain focused, act with integrity, and give their very best effort, even as the end of term approaches. Our behaviour expectations also remain high because we believe every student is capable of excellence - and we want to see them succeed and celebrate their achievements.

Sense of Belonging Framework:

This year, our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) team has been working on the rollout of our Sense of Belonging Framework, adapted from the work of U.S. researcher and author Doug Fisher. This initiative aims to strengthen the connections our students feel with the school and with one another. As part of this process, we have been asking students to reflect on three key questions:

1. What can staff do to support your sense of belonging at RVSSC?

2. What can you do to be more involved at the College?

3. Who can help you become more connected?

Next term, our focus will be on the idea of feeling heard. This aligns closely with the important work we are doing with our Student Representative Council (SRC) to ensure student voices are not only listened to but also acted upon. We are excited to continue building a culture where students feel empowered to contribute to the life of the College.

Over the next few weeks, we will also finalise the process of selecting our new Student Leaders for 2026, with elections and leadership activities providing a wonderful opportunity for students to step forward and represent their peers. This is always a highlight of our school calendar, and we look forward to seeing our future leaders emerge.

Awards Evening:

Preparations continue for the Annual Awards Evening, which will take place in Week 3 of Term 4 on Wednesday 22^nd of October. A core component of this event includes celebrating students who have received: Raptor Awards, Special Awards, Subject Awards and those who have been elected school leaders for 2025. Invitations to this event will be sent out early next Term to the families of students receiving awards on the night.

Ripley Rewards Trip:

Thanks to all the students who submitted their Ripley Rewards Applications this Term to the Hijinx Hotel and Holey Moley. Final preparations are being made for the trip and lists of students who have been approved to attend will be posted in the Library next week. If you have any questions or concerns around this process, please feel free to email the Year Coordinator Team at: YCO@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au.

I wish all students a positive end to the Term, and look forward to celebrating their achievements on Awards Night in Term 4.