Head of Secondary Message, Term 4, Week 2 2026
After memorable valedictory events in September, this term sees our Year 12 students face the final stage of their educational Everest – HSC and IBDP exams. The HSC cohort are halfway through their exam block, while IBDP exams commence next week. We are immensely proud of the students and know they are giving these exams their very best effort – all anyone can ask. They have the entire AISHK community behind them!
Later this term, in week 6, students in Years 7 to 10 will complete their own exam blocks. With the rise of AI, traditional examinations hold more importance than ever as a way of genuinely testing students’ subject knowledge and thinking skills under pressure. In the HSC, for example, NESA has recently announced strict limits on how much school-based assessment can now be “take home”, placing greater emphasis on timed tests and exams. By giving our junior secondary students regular experience of exam blocks, we hope to build the skills, confidence and “match fitness” required for their future examination success.
Last week, we were delighted to swear in the new school prefects, as they gave their oath of acceptance before proud parents and fellow secondary students. Under the leadership of Will, Emily, James and Hazel, the new prefects have already begun developing their vision and key initiatives for 2027, with a strong focus on serving others at the core of their ethos. They are demonstrating a deep passion for AISHK and a desire to enhance the student experience for all, and I look forward to working alongside them over the next twelve months. Their first major leadership opportunity comes next Wednesday, with the mufti day hosted by Waratah and Wattle. These fun and vibrant whole school events are always a great way to bring the AISHK community together.
The AISHK spirit of service was on full display at this week’s outstanding HK Bridge CAS Fair, organised by year 11 students under the dedicated guidance of Ms Darby. The initiative was originally developed by current Year 12 students, James and Sophie, who wanted to “bridge the gap” by reducing barriers that prevent people from taking part in active service in Hong Kong. The fair, which was attended by hundreds of students and community members, is part of the Year 11 students’ CAS project for the IBDP and was designed to highlight local and global issues, while encouraging our school community to move from awareness to action. Congratulations to everyone involved in this inspirational event.
Preparing students for life beyond AISHK is the key focus of our careers program, led by Mr Wray and Mr Bailey. While this includes guidance about university applications, it also involves counselling students about aspects like post-school residency options in Australia and abroad, and what kinds of career pathways are possible upon completion of different degrees. On 5th November, during the Year 11 parent-student-teacher conferences, there will be a special information session held for Year 11 families hosted by Mr Wray and Mr Bailey. This is designed to give families information about key dates and processes for a successful transition from high school to university and beyond.
Term 4 is always an action-packed one for sports with lots of opportunities for our Kangaroos athletes to compete on the local and global stage. Next week our volleyball teams travel to Shenzhen for the ACAMIS tournament, and we wish them every success as they represent the Roos on the courts.
Wishing all secondary families a fabulous weekend with family and friends!
