Head of Secondary Message, Term 3, Week 5 2026

Once again, Book Week has united students and staff of all ages in celebrating literature, reading, and storytelling. As the ‘Symphony of Stories’ theme for 2026 suggests, our world is made up of many diverse voices, whose stories connect us with different cultures and perspectives. In a world of endless screens and short attention spans, reading is more important than ever, developing creative and critical thinking skills, and promoting reflection on what it means to be human. Well done to everyone who helped make the week so fun and memorable.

Today was also the annual science assembly, which saw the premiere of the new, hotly anticipated science film, House & Pixel. Congratulations to Mr Pulsford, Mr San Juan and all students and staff involved in the creation of this outstanding film – the audience loved it from beginning to end. The theme of this year’s Science Week was ‘Seeds of Science: Nurturing Knowledge for All’. With the rise of AI and the generation of fast and often questionable “knowledge”, the “nurturing” metaphor is a timely reminder that true knowledge comes from establishing facts and data trends over time. I’m looking forward to seeing Year 8’s learning showcased at Monday’s Science Fair.

Tonight is the senior formal at Hotel ICON – a joyous occasion for senior students and teachers to let their hair down and party after a busy term. Whereas school formals in Australia are typically for one year level only, AISHK has always invited both Year 11 and 12 students to celebrate together. This recognises the fact that being a senior – either in the HSC or IBDP – is a two-year journey, and the formal fosters great camaraderie across the two year levels.

It’s been a time of celebration and relief for many of our HSC students who have completed major works and projects. In the past week, students in English Extension 2, Drama, Software Engineering and Design and Technology have all completed project work that will now be externally marked by NESA. On Wednesday, I had the pleasure of attending the senior recital by HSC Music students – a dress rehearsal for their performances in front of NESA examiners in September. Warm congratulations to all students, and of course their dedicated and supportive teachers, on these significant milestones.

Next week I am looking forward to joining Ms Dunstan, Ms Wilkie and Ms Young in interviewing candidates for 2027 prefect roles. Already the Year 11 students who have nominated themselves have shown great courage, reflection and maturity in articulating why they want to contribute to AISHK as student leaders. Navigating a formal interview process will no doubt be daunting, however the skills and confidence gained from such an experience are invaluable. On the academic front, Year 11 students also have their yearly examinations commencing in under a fortnight, and hopefully study and revision are well underway.

After such a busy first half of the term, it’s important for students to take some time this weekend to rest and recharge, as well as connect with family and friends. I look forward to sharing more secondary successes and highlights next time.