It has been such a delight in my first couple of weeks at PBC. We have had 3 Optima assemblies recognising the hard work and dedication that so many of our students have exhibited throughout Semester 1. We have recognised the sporting, cultural and academic achievements of our students in addition to those with excellent effort and behaviour. Students achieving excellent for effort and behaviour across 5 or more subjects is simply outstanding. This means that they are showing up every day and putting their best foot forward and trying really hard. Having a good work ethic and putting in your best whenever you can, are attributes that will see a young person be successful, not just in school, but throughout life. Well done to all recipients of Optima Awards.

A reminder around our school’s uniform and mobile phone policy. It is important that policies are adhered to, and that parents support us with this. I have asked all teachers to refer any students wearing jewellery or using a mobile phone to D Block, rather than simply asking them to put it away. This ensures that the policy is followed and appropriate consequences are issued for students not complying. Mobile phones are not to be sighted at any point through the school day. If you need to get a message to your child, please phone the school and we will deliver the message. Students will be sent to D block for having their phone visible and if they refuse, will be referred to the Deputy.

I would also like to raise the importance of students following the directions of staff in the playground. This is a large school and when all students are on break at the same time student safety is paramount. Teachers need to be able to give a reasonable instruction, and have it followed without debate or refusal from students. After a teacher has given the student opportunities to do the right thing and follow their instructions, if they continue to refuse or run away, they will be referred to the Deputy and the consequence may be suspension.

Year 9 work experience is coming up in Week 10 and we would like to see as many students as possible engaging in this wonderful opportunity. Work experience can help students to realise their potential future career or path of future study, and this can really help to increase engagement and focus and help to guide senior subject selections. Please encourage your child to contact organisations and small businesses that may align with their interests and secure a placement ASAP, if they haven’t done so already.

I would like to remind parents that students are not permitted to miss class time to watch a Reds game. The Queensland Government clearly identifies what constitutes a reasonable reason to be absent from school and only the Principal has the ability to make the decision regarding reasonable excuses outside of these parameters. Please do not phone the school to request your child leave class to watch a Reds game, as this will not be approved.

I would like to acknowledge the wonderful work of our student leaders over the past couple of weeks. They have put in many hours presenting on our Optima Assemblies and hosting our enrolment information night. These students stand up in front of their peers and do the most amazing job at public speaking and advocating for our school to the best it can be.

Jess Keavney,
Acting Principal, Junior Secondary