Head of Secondary Message, Term 3, Week 7 2026

This week we observed “R U OK? Day”, an Australian national day of action that encourages people to connect and have meaningful conversations about mental health. Throughout the school, students and staff wore a touch of yellow and participated in various activities aimed at raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing issues.

At AISHK, we are very proud that all Secondary staff are trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid and required to maintain accreditation every three years. Working closely with Shirralee Sisson of Positive Wellbeing, staff learn about the latest research and trends in youth mental health and current best practice for supporting struggling teens. Shirralee was at school this week working with a group of staff and her sessions are always highly engaging and beneficial.

Wellbeing at school stems from many dimensions, including: a robust academic program that allows students to strive for personal bests; a wide range of extracurricular activities aligned to students’ passions and skills; opportunities for connection and being part of a vibrant community that fosters purpose and belonging. At AISHK, the PROSPER framework continues to provide the common language and values that underpin how we support students throughout their educational journey. Through student bodies such as the SRC and Wellbeing Committee, our students are active contributors to initiatives and programs that enhance the wellbeing and experience of all.

Earlier this term, Mr Tait launched a new set of principles for our representative sporting teams to uplift standards and culture. Based on PROSPER, the new ‘Roos Way’ outlines the qualities and attributes we expect from our student athletes when they represent AISHK on the field or court. This week’s Sports Awards ceremony celebrated all that is great about team and individual sport at AISHK. Warm congratulations to all the winners who were recognised with awards; we are extremely proud of your achievements.

On the academic front, we are nearing completion of the 5-year review of our International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, with the final site visit by the IBO in November. Led by our IB Coordinator Ms O’Donnell, the process offers the opportunity to reflect on the strengths and growth areas of the IBDP at AISHK and how well we demonstrate IB standards and philosophy. I am very grateful to Ms O’Donnell for her excellent leadership, and all stakeholders – especially parents – who have provided feedback as part of the process.

With a fortnight left in the term, I know that year 12 families are eagerly looking forward to the special Valedictory events on 23 September, with a few bittersweet feelings about finishing school and leaving AISHK as well. It will be wonderful to celebrate with the senior students and their families then.

Wishing all Secondary families a fun and fabulous weekend!