Dear Parents/Carers, 

Welcome to our final school newsletter for 2020 and as I reflect on our foundation year of schooling we have achieved so much.  It is difficult to believe that only 12 months ago our College was still very much a construction site and students and staff were visualising what our school would be like.  Today, we have over 150 students enrolled in years 7 & 8 with more than 300 students expected at our school next year.  While our student numbers have grown, and will continue to rapidly grow over the coming years it is important to remember who we are and what we have achieved to date.  

This year saw the introduction of the first 1:1 laptop program in a school in the greater Ipswich region and our staff, students and parents have utilised this technology to enhance learning, communication and education in multiple ways.  Even the challenges and disruption of learning at home due to COVID 19 did not prevent our students from learning and the laptop program greatly assisted us all during this period.  As we continue to enhance our use of technology, our school staff are currently on track to be the first  Microsoft accredited school in the greater Ipswich region. This accreditation enables our teachers and students to fully access and utilise the software and programs within the Microsoft suite of educational products enhancing students learning experiences even further in 2021.  

Another highlight for this year was the creation of our first student representative council and election of house and school captains for 2021.  This process has allowed our students to take ownership and develop their leadership skills within our College and their input in designing our sporting house mascots, 'war crys' and positive school culture has been commendable.  

This year also saw the establishment of our P & C Association.  Every month more than 15 members regularly attend and their commitment to our students, College and values has been outstanding.  This year they have obtained more than $14,000 in community grants and have worked tirelessly to enhance the College facilities and community connections with initiatives such as our foundation pavers, ANZAC memorial and mental Health Week activities to name but a few.  I want to especially thank Maria, Karina, Renee and Samantha  for their executive roles within the P & C throughout this year.  As we prepare for 2021 I would encourage any current or future parents to join our P&C and continue the great work already started this year.

Next year will see more growth and development of our College with the introduction of new subjects and electives in year 9, and the commencement of our stage 2 building works and additional facilities and staff.  The $39 million Stage 2 building works will see the creation of our senior science laboratories, purpose built library and resource centre, eSports HUB, auditoriums, canteen and IT service centre along with more classrooms.  These significant works are due for completion at the end of next year in anticipation for our first cohort of senior students.  Over the Christmas holidays barrier fencing will be erected and major ground works is due to commence in January.  Further information and updates will be provided early next year as the construction works progress and I look forward to sharing this information with you.  

As we plan and prepare for next year, our College's focus will be 4-fold with an explicit improvement agenda on continuing to build and promote our positive school culture, teaching and learning, student pathways and partnerships with local business, industry and training organisations.  Our four year strategic plan has recently been endorsed by the P & C and will be available on our website.  I would encourage you to read this document and see how you may be able to assist us on our improvement journey.

As the year rapidly draws to a close I wanted to thank you, the dedicated parents and carers who have helped make our College the great place it is.  In such a short time we have already established a reputation for high expectations, innovation, inclusion and connection to community and I look forward to building upon our foundation year in 2021.  Once again, thank you and I wish you all a safe and happy holiday.

Yours sincerely,