Term 3 has been huge! It is always one of the busiest times of the year, packed with learning, assessment, and plenty of variations to our usual school routines. At times, it can feel like a constant juggle of priorities. However, what we have managed to achieve at WHSC this term is remarkable: we have remained focused on what matters most—our students, their learning, and the wellbeing of our community.

As we head into the holidays, it is a great opportunity to reflect on some of the highlights of Term 3. This term we celebrated:

• NAIDOC Week
• Hosting the Matsuri Festival
• Book Week and English Week
• Science Week
• Try High School for a Day program with feeder primary schools
• Year 11 Leadership Days
• Year 12 First Aid Training
• Year 10 SET Planning Days
• Year 11 Academic Mentoring Conversations
• Year 9 Academic Conferencing

Throughout all of these events, our students have continued to live out our CARES values with increasing commitment and confidence. I am grateful to them for their genuineness and their ongoing efforts to be the best version of themselves each day.

The holiday break provides a chance to rest and recharge. For our Year 12 students, it is also a time to reflect and prepare for the final stage of their marathon. Success in the last quarter is not only about preparation but also about mindset. Taking the time to reconnect with the activities and people that bring joy helps refill our energy reserves. These moments of joy and gratitude will support us all when the fast pace of the school term resumes.

A special congratulations goes to the twelve Year 12 who have completed a Diploma of Business during their senior studies at Whites Hill this year. Balancing a tertiary-level qualification alongside the demands of senior schooling is an outstanding achievement. These students are now exceptionally well-placed to accept early university offers or transition into employment pathways. We are so proud of you!

Thank you to all members of our community—students, staff, and families—for your commitment, patience, and energy throughout this term. We have finished Term 3 strong, and Term 4 is shaping up to be just as exciting.

Stay safe, enjoy the spring break, and be kind to yourselves.

Samantha Hawkins
Head of School - Secondary