Our Autumn weather has been sensational. Clear blues skies, warm days and frosty nights have been frequent. Autumn is also reporting time. Reports inform students, parents and carers on the progress of individual students. Teachers have invested hours in preparing these reports and providing individually tailored suggestions on what to do to improve achievement. Please take time to read these reports and invest in the teacher recommendations.

The Autumn season has also coincided with a high rate of student illness, mainly colds and some COVID. We understand that students and staff must stay at home if they are displaying symptoms and their illness might be contagious. When well, it is essential that all students attend all lessons and do their best. Courses in Years 11 and 12 contain a lot of content and students must maintain a high pace of learning. Attendance to all lessons ensures students can achieve to their potential.

Last week was National Road Safety Week 2023. This is significant to all Australians as sadly, most of us have had someone near and dear suffer the tragedy of a road crash. I acknowledge the impact a single road crash can have on so many people.

Many of our students will attain their Driver’s License whilst studying at Don College so this message is pertinent. Road Safety and driving a car is a huge responsibility.

A key activity of National Road Safety week is encouragement of drivers to drive so others survive. I encourage all drivers to consider this pledge.

“I pledge to drive as if my loved ones are on the road ahead.

I will remove all distractions and never use my mobile phone while driving.

I will not put other people at risk by speeding, driving while tired or under the influence of alcohol/drugs.

I will protect all vulnerable road users, especially those whose job places them in harm’s way, by slowing down and giving them the space they need to be safe.”

We are excited in anticipation of the presentation of the Don College Musical, School of Rock opening on Friday June 16. In advance I congratulate our staff and students on their efforts in creating an amazing musical production. I am continually amazed by the range of talents our students have developed. See Don College Facebook for full details.

We also have our Mid-Year Assessment Period from June 22-29. All students will complete assessments for all subjects. This is an opportunity for students to measure their achievement so far against the standards required for successful completion of their courses. Assessments will take a variety of formats. Most Level 3 and 4 courses will conduct assessments that closely represent the End of Year External TASC exams. VET and Level 2 TASC students will complete a range of practical and theoretical activities as required.

Enjoy these last few days of Autumn and stay well.

John Thompson