Principal’s Message
Living Our Vision Through Positive Behaviour
At Fairhills High School, our vision is to empower our community to be curious, creative and confident learners. The way we behave, how we treat others, how we approach challenges, and how we contribute to our school environment plays a vital role in bringing this vision to life.
When students demonstrate positive behaviour, they actively shape a school culture that supports learning, inclusion and wellbeing for all. These behaviours help us live our values each day:
Respect Others
Curiosity begins with listening and learning from others. Respect means valuing different ideas, beliefs and experiences, and treating everyone with dignity—whether in person or online. We build confidence in others when we help them feel safe, supported and included.
Follow Expectations
By following school and community expectations, we create a calm and respectful environment where creativity and learning can flourish. Structure gives us the confidence to take risks and explore new ideas—essential to developing as confident learners.
Take Responsibility
Confidence grows when we take ownership of our actions. Whether it’s arriving on time, completing our best work, or helping someone in need, responsibility means doing the right thing and contributing to the wellbeing of our school community.
Show Kindness
Kindness is a powerful force for connection. Simple gestures—like including someone, offering encouragement, or listening with empathy—can build trust and create a positive space where everyone feels empowered to learn.
Contribute Positively
Creative learners look for opportunities to improve the world around them. Whether it’s picking up litter, joining a club, or leading a group project, making a positive contribution helps strengthen our school and inspires others to do the same.
Be Courteous
Courtesy reflects self-confidence and emotional intelligence. Using polite language, being mindful of others, and showing good manners help build a respectful and welcoming learning environment.
By acting with respect, kindness and responsibility, we don’t just follow rules—we help create the kind of school where curiosity is encouraged, creativity is celebrated, and confidence is nurtured. Let’s continue to model the behaviours that bring our vision to life—together, every day.
Professional Development Day
Our recent Professional Development Day empowered staff to deepen their understanding of ADHD through a collaborative jigsaw activity that sparked meaningful conversation and insight. Staff explored how ADHD impacts learning, behaviour, and engagement, leading to practical strategies for inclusive classrooms.
After the ADHD session teachers collaborated to:
- refine curriculum
- co-develop clear and consistent assessment rubrics
- and design tailored homework planners for Years 7 and 10. These initiatives promote clarity, accessibility,
These sessions will directly impact student engagement, confidence, and academic growth across the school.
Recognising the Outstanding Contribution of Our Education Support Staff – May 16
At Fairhills High School, we’re proud to acknowledge the vital role our Education Support (ES) staff play in the life of our school. Whether working behind the scenes or directly alongside students and teachers, their care, dedication, and professionalism help create an environment where everyone feels supported and able to succeed.
On Education Support Day, both staff and students took time to show their appreciation through a shared lunch and a video tribute, recognising the genuine impact our ES team has across all areas of the school.
We’re truly grateful to work with such a capable and committed team — your efforts do not go unnoticed.
Key Reminders – Uniform, Mobile Devices, and Attendance Expectations
Dear Parents and Carers,
As we move further into Term 2, we would like to take this opportunity to reiterate some key school policies and expectations. Your support in these areas is essential in helping us maintain a positive, focused learning environment for all students.
1. Daily Attendance – Everyday Counts
Firstly, a sincere thank you to all the parents and students who have worked tirelessly to improve attendance this term. Regular attendance is the foundation for academic success, student wellbeing, and long-term engagement in learning.
We remind all families of the importance of:
- Ensuring your child attends school every day, unless unwell.
- Explaining all absences via the Fairhills Attendance Hotline (03 9758 5022) or the Compass App.
- Supporting your child in arriving on time each morning. Students who are late miss valuable learning time and disrupt the flow of the class.
As part of our Class Lateness Process, families will receive Compass notifications for repeated lateness, with clear stages of follow-up and support. Together, we can help students build strong habits for success.
2. Uniform During Winter
With colder weather now upon us, we understand the need for additional warmth. However, maintaining uniform standards remains a priority.
Please note the following uniform expectations:
- Students must wear full and correct uniform options as outlined here
- PE Uniform (permitted all the time) includes a purple polo top, black school track pants with logo, and black long shorts from Bob Stewart Store.
- Hoodies and black flared pants are not permitted.
- Black Socks only – no logos
- Students may wear undergarments for warmth, such as thermals, as long as they are not visible. Visible long sleeve skivvies under polo tops are not permitted.
- Approved items include the Fairhills rugby top and Fairhills rain jacket.
- Only school-issued beanies and plain black scarves are allowed.
- Items such as hoodies, puffer jackets, visible long sleeve skivvies, and patterned/other coloured scarves are not permitted, and students will be asked to remove non-uniform items during the school day.
If your family requires support with obtaining uniform items, please don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance.
3. Mobile Devices and EarPods
We are seeing an increase in the use of mobile phones and wireless earbuds during school hours. As a reminder:
- All mobile phones, earbuds, and similar devices must be secured in lockers from the beginning of the day until the end.
- Devices will be confiscated if used inappropriately, and families will be notified.
Your support in reinforcing this policy at home helps students remain focused and engaged during learning time.
We remain committed to creating a respectful and positive learning environment, and we appreciate your continued partnership and support. Please contact us if you have any questions or if we can assist your child in any of these areas.
Ian Van Schie
Principal
