We are now in the midst of the assessment period for the final term of the year and the majority of our students have been demonstrating the excellent qualities that we expect at Foxwell State Secondary College. In and outside of the classroom, students are  taking the opportunties on offer to them across our broad range of programs and activities.

Before our final weeks are upon us, we will see students engaging in music and dance troupe performances, our Creative Voices Showcase, as well our Swimming Carnival and Beach Touch championships. Over the last two weeks students have competed in  Science and Engineering challenges, Art competitions and continued their sports conditioning events. We find that students who are actively engaged in at least one extra-curricular activity are far more positive than those students who choose not to take advantage of these opportunities on offer here at Foxwell SSC. As your family prepares for the 2023 school year, I ask that you consider what extra-curriculuar opportutnies your student will take up. 

I spoke in our last newsletter about the importance of reinforcing routines and habits with our students. This week I would like to talk to this in terms of student study and assessment routines. Mid-term is a time where students should be continuing on with the organisation, study and assessment routines that they have already established throughout the year. There are increased benefits where there is an adult at home that encourages their students to be prepared for their studies and assessment. I say again this week that this is not the time to slacken off and count down to the end of term. This is the time to show true grit and determination as assessment due dates are closing in for most subject areas. 

Parents, please continue to be vigilant in ensuring your child is getting into a solid sleep routine and getting sufficient sleep. Gaming should be limited to 2 hours and social screen time after school monitored so as to limit the negative impact on brain and mental health. As the year draws on, supporing students with their nutrition continues to be a priority. We notice at this time of year students forgetting to bring their lunches, or not taking the time to prepare this at home or the night before. A healthy lunch box full of fresh food gives your child energy to place, concentrate and learn all day. It’s also a good idea to pack a bottle with tap water for your child to drink and refill. Soft drinks and energy drinks are high in sugar and aren’t recommended for children, particularly during the school day. 

Getting to school and class on time continues to be the expectation at Foxwell SSC. Teenagers seek independence and think they know best. No matter how hard parents try, some students may be reluctant or refuse to go to or engage when at school.

What you can do...

• Talk about the importance of showing up to school every day, make that the expectation. Regular attendance at school sets up good behaviours for regular attendance at work.
• Help your teenager maintain daily routines such as finishing homework and getting a good night’s sleep. On average, teenagers need 8-9 hours sleep to be healthy and alert. You may also need to monitor their use of the Internet, mobile phone and TV at night to ensure they are not staying up too late or being disturbed while sleeping.
• Try not to schedule hair, dental or medical appointments during school hours. Arrange family holidays during scheduled school holidays so that they are not missing out on classes and, therefore, will not have to struggle to make up for lost time.
• Don’t let your teenager stay home unless genuinely sick. Complaints of headaches or stomach aches may be signs of anxiety.
• If your teenager wants to stay home to finish an assignment, rather than letting them stay home, expect them to go to school – make attendance the number one priority. Later, you can discuss with them how they can improve their study habits or adjust their schedule.
• Access the school assessment calendar below, use this to help your teenager plan their study.

We are coming to the end of our 2023 Enrolment Interviews. If you are aware of a child that has not submitted their enrolment application for 2023, please ensure that this is provided to the school as soon as possible. Transition Day is not far away and class lists are being finalised. 

Until next time...

Miss Kate Shepherd

Acting Principal

Foxwell State Secondary College