REMEMBRANCE DAY

Remembrance Day holds deep significance for modern-day Australian life, as it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our service personnel throughout history and in current times. This annual observance not only honours the memory of those who gave their lives in conflicts, both military and civilian, but also emphasises the enduring values of courage, resilience and unity that continues to define our nation. In a world marked by global challenges, the lessons of Remembrance Day resonate strongly with us.  It encourages us to reflect on the importance of peace, diplomacy, and international co-operation, while fostering a sense of national identity and pride.  As Australians, it is our responsibility to remember, learn from the past, and continue working towards a peaceful future.

Ripley Valley SSC will hold our Remembrance Day commemoration on Friday the 10^th November in a whole school assembly at the Raptor-Dome, commencing at 0845.  Parents are invited to attend our service, and if you wish, can lay a wreath or flowers.

Poppies and badges will also be available for purchase in the week leading up to Remembrance Day.  Purchases are cash only, so start looking for coins that may be laying around the house.  All proceeds go to supporting ADF veterans and their families.

FAMILIES POSTING OUT

As the end of 2023 draws near, we inevitably have to say goodbye to some of our Defence students, as their parents receive their new posting locations.  It is always sad to see our students move on, but it is a reminder of the challenges Defence students and their families face due to the mobile lifestyle of the military. I am constantly amazed at the coping strategies of our Defence students as they deal with frequent moves or parents being away for long periods of time.  It is a true testament to their resilience.

For those families who are posting away, I would like to wish you all the best in your new location, and maybe, perhaps, we will see your students again.

DEFENCE PEER MENTOR 2024

Applications for our new Year 10 Defence Peer Mentor (DPM) have now closed.  Next week our new DPM will be announced.  The college will have a full complement of DPM’s in 2024, including Year 11 & 12 mentors. 

Defence Peer Mentors help to support, from a peer level, other Defence students at the college. Using their own experiences as a Defence family member, to assist them in forming coping strategies when faced with the impact the military lifestyle presents to their education. 

DPM’s also assist the DSM in highlighting aspects of military life to the broader school community along with attending the many commemorations through the year.

DSM SUPPORT

Defence is committed to working with ADF families to help them balance the demands of service life with the needs of the family.

If you are a Defence family, and you are looking for information on educational support the ADF offers, you can contact me on tcoop203@eq.edu.au

You can find more information on the Defence School Mentor Program at:

https://defence.gov.au/members-families/Family/kids/education.asp

ABSENCE SUPPORT

If you are deploying or posting, please let me or your student’s teacher know so we can best support them during this potentially challenging time.