Hi everyone,
The first week is over, and the classrooms are quite calm. Students are engaged and generally excited to be back at school and learning together. For our new families, try to be patient about understanding the detail at Thomas Hassall. It will take a few weeks.
The COVID journey with Rapid Antigen tests twice a week is a confidence builder. We have had a handful of positive cases only, and the isolation process works. Thanks for your support of the program. Phase 2 will be rolled out next week in time for weeks 3 & 4.
Our hearts go out to the Khalil family for the loss of their precious little boy Hunter. His funeral will be on Saturday 12th February. We will communicate the details for your information and prayers. There’s a meal roster if you wish to add practical support, and details are available in the article about Hunter in the next pages.
The Iese family lost both Grandparents suddenly last week as well. It’s been a very sad start to the year for several College families. We want to reach out in support don’t we when we hear of such grief and loss. Let’s continue to stand with them.
The HSC results for 2021 were interesting, with several outstanding individual results and as well as some concerns about others. Sreya Diddee our College Captain ranked as Dux of the College, with her results for every subject achieving a Band 6 level. She has been awarded a State All-Rounders award and has gained entry to a special scholars course at Sydney University. Most of the Year 12 students received early entry offers to university in their chosen option, and we are proud of the 2021 graduates. We are reviewing the results through this first term, and I will bring you an update about that review.
During the first 4 weeks or so, we will be conservative about gathering in large groups such as for Swimming Carnivals and the Senior School camps. Our wisdom is that the COVID numbers will continue to drop, and we will be able to relax the limitations. I’m looking forward to opening the MRK coffee shop as soon as we can, and the first coffee will be free, so watch this space.
The traffic plan needs some adjustment again as we start the year. We will add some additional helpers, so please be patient. On Flynn Avenue in Senior School at the entry gate, which is Gate 3, it’s important to take directions from the staff on the gates. Please do that so that the drop off occurs safely, and as quickly as is possible. In 3 weeks time, there will be another change as we move half the traffic to enter at gate 1. This means there will be 2 entry gates for both morning and afternoon. It coincides with the start of a building addition to the Ann Marsden N Block building. We are adding another 8 rooms, and the project will take 9 months or so.
There are lots of new things to learn and remember at the start of every year. Are the children now ready and organised with their uniform and haircuts, and lunch routines. Mr Young has written to Senior School families about uniform. Talk to us if there are any issues at all. Stay positive and patient; optimistic and hopeful. Ask plenty of questions and be the support person where you can.
Welcome again to the 2022 year.
