Dear Families and Community Members

Exciting news for BHS – we had 6/8 teams in the semi-final in the Northern High School Sports Association Winter Roster, which were played on Wednesday. This was fantastic recognition for our dedicated students and their coaches.  We now have 2 teams in the Netball and Indoor Soccer finals.  It would be sensational to see as many parents and community members supporting our students at these games on Wednesday 4th September.

• 12:30pm - Netball - Star of The Sea V BHS @ Hoblers Bridge Road
• 1:15pm - Girls Indoor Soccer - Cressy A V BHS A @ Elphin Sports Centre Crt 3

We also have our year 9/10 rock band Rinzler (Rosella, Brock, Po and Liam)  and Rosella representing BHS in the Rock Challenge on Friday September 6 at the Launceston Conference Centre (old Door of Hope). Congratulations to all students who participated in the playoffs and to our two judges Ms A and Mr Campbell. We wish Rinzler and Rosella every success – we will be there to cheer them on!

Congratulations also to our amazing artists and Ms A and Mr C for another visually spectacular BHS Art Exhibition. Our official opening was on Wednesday last week and I encourage as many of you as possible to visit our exhibition space and absorb the diversity of art on display. Once again our emerging artists have made us proud; from sculpture, digital and visual art there is something to engage all eyes!

Last week we had our School Review and we were delighted with the findings of the school review team who spent 3 days talking to staff, students and parents; the panel were also present at planning meetings and conducted classroom and playground observations. They named up 3 Affirmations (areas of real strength), Commendations (areas we are doing well) and some recommendations (areas for further consideration)

Affirmations:

1. All teaching staff acknowledged and expressed the value of collaborative teams as the key driver for planning.
2. There is a happy optimistic feel to the school where staff feel well supported by their colleagues and the leadership team.
3. The profile of the school in the community is changing, students and parents know what is expected.

Commendations: 

• In its use of discretionary school funds, the school gives priority to additional staffing to address the needs of individual learners.
• The school has scheduled time for collaboration, and team norms and set agendas guide the planning.
• There is a clearly documented and procedural approach to school improvement.

Recommendations:

1. Ensure there is an understanding across the whole school of the behaviour management practices and processes that support students in their learning.
2. Explore opportunities to engage with parents and carers as valued partners in school improvement.
3. Inquire into the application of the Teaching and Learning Framework and identify elements that can be enhanced to progress further implementation.

As a staff we will be unpacking this information in greater detail.

In our assembly last week, it was my great privilege to recognise one student from every grade who had demonstrated or actioned our school values. I would like to congratulate the following students.