I took Long Service Leave for the first two weeks of Term 4 and would like to express my heartfelt thanks to our Silvana La Leggia and Bill Exton (Assistant Principal) for stepping up to support the school community in my absence. Their dedication ensured the smooth running of the school and continued our commitment to excellence. I’m grateful for their hard work and the support of our wonderful community during that time. It’s great to be back (I do miss the infinity pool….), refreshed and ready for the term ahead.

Year 12 celebrations

We recently had the privilege of farewelling our Year 12 students with a series of wonderful events, including a remarkable assembly and an unforgettable valedictory dinner. Both occasions were a true celebration of our students’ hard work, growth, and achievements throughout their years at Fairhills. I want to commend our Year 12s for the way they carried themselves—respectful, mature, and proud—which made these moments truly special for students, families, and staff alike.

For those now entering the final stretch with exams, I wish you every success. This period is crucial, and I encourage you to maintain focus, put in consistent effort, and make the most of your preparation. Completing as many past exam questions as possible is one of the most effective ways to deepen your understanding and sharpen your skills. I also urge you to actively seek feedback from your teachers, who are here to support you in fine-tuning your performance and maximising your potential.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Senior School leadership team, Bill Exton, Leanne Henderson, Todd Chamberlain and Laura Blackson and our dedicated VCE teachers for their commitment and tireless efforts throughout the year. Your guidance, encouragement, and expertise have been instrumental in preparing our students for this significant milestone.

Parent corner – What Should I Do If I’m Concerned About My Child’s Lifestyle?

If you’re worried about your child’s lifestyle, the steps you take will depend on the nature of your concern and your relationship with your child. Here’s what you can do:

• Communicate: Try to talk directly to your child about your concerns to understand their situation better. Open and honest communication can be very effective.
• Consult the School Wellbeing team: If you feel it’s needed, speak to the Wellbeing team and ask them to have a conversation with your child.
• Involve Teachers: Consider discussing your concerns with your child’s teachers to gain more insights into their behaviour and performance at school.
• Collaborate with the Sub School Assistant Principal: If the concern is significant, discuss the best course of action with them.
• Avoid Inaction: Never ignore the situation or take unconsidered action. Always think carefully and consult with other professionals to determine the best approach.

Ian Van Schie
Principal