Often I feel very lucky to be a Tasmanian resident. Living on the North West Coast we are treated to amazing sunrises and sunsets. The beaches are on our doorstep and the mountains in our back yard. If we compare our current circumstances to those across the globe we live in a safe and secure haven.

Tasmania and particularly the North West Coast has struggled to advance economically. However there is a true sense of excitement in the air. Projects on North West Coast will play a role in providing renewable energy to the nation. Tasmania is now a mountain biking mecca and this includes the North West region. Coastal Pathways will soon link our communities providing convenience and recreation opportunity for community members and tourists alike. There is opportunity on the coast and we have young skilled Tasmanians at Don College ready to support, or in the very near future, lead these projects. I am very fortunate to work with students as they plan their transitions to work, training or further education. I encourage all students to take a global perspective but in these current times, Tasmania has a lot to offer.

Assessment Period

A key feature of our June calendar is the Assessment Period. All subjects have an assessment. For Level 3 and 4 TASC subjects, these assessments will closely replicate the End of Year Assessment processes. For VET and Leve 2 TASC courses, mid-year assessments will provide students an opportunity to demonstrate skills and knowledge acquired so far this year. This assessment is not an end point. Individual student performance in these assessments will inform students of the work they need to do to improve. Teachers will also reflect on student achievement and this will inform their next steps in teaching.

Futsal Champions

Thank you to Max, Joel and Rodney for supporting our students to participate in the Launceston Futsal Championships. The Year 12 students finished the day as champions. It makes me very proud to report that the Don College students were commended for their excellent conduct and fair play throughout the day.

College Musical

One more amazing highlight for this term will be our musical production, “Mary Poppins”. I wish all students every success. I am in awe of young people who can confidently grace the stage and commit to the discipline and rehearsal that such an undertaking requires. We thank you for your support of Don College and for celebrating the achievements of our students as presented in these pages.