Remembrance Day

Last week, PAC observed Remembrance Day as a whole school. This tradition fosters respect, gratitude, and historical awareness among students. This solemn occasion provides an opportunity to honour the sacrifices of those who served in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions to secure the freedoms we enjoy today. It was encouraging to see students respectfully observe a moment of silence to reflect on the significance of others' service.

Incorporating Remembrance Day into school programs allows our community to better understand the historical context of wars, the experiences of veterans, and the ongoing importance of remembrance. Our service was run by our Secondary Leaders, Andi Simmons and Chelsea Jenkins, with the support of Mr D. Jenkins on trumpet and Mr P. McMurray delivering the address.

Manners

As a school, we focus on developing the character of our students, not just academic outcomes. Sometimes it is hard for students to understand what is required of them to demonstrate particular character traits. During assemblies, there has been a focus on students using “thank you,” “sorry,” and “please” as ways of demonstrating compassion, courage, integrity, humility, and perseverance.

Teaching and modelling the use of these simple words in our school is essential for fostering a respectful and positive community. These words carry significant weight in building strong relationships, promoting kindness, and encouraging accountability among students and staff.

Education works best when the school and families work together for the benefit of students. Over the coming break, families have the opportunity to reinforce these behavioural expectations at home and during holidays. Teenagers learn by observation, and modelling “thank you,” “sorry,” and “please” in adult conversations—and requiring adolescents to use these words—will have a positive impact on families and the overall tone within the PAC community.

Project-Based Learning

Both Year 9 and Year 10 students are/will be involved in project-based learning (PBL) initiatives over weeks 6 and 7 this term. Year 10 students are participating in Australian Business Week (ABW), while Year 9 students will undertake a series of projects of their choosing next week.

ABW is a business simulation where students work in teams to manage all facets of a business while developing a product for the final ‘trade display’ presentation. As part of the week, we have invited industry experts, local business owners, and ex-students to share their experiences in leading and developing businesses.

Year 9 students have selected PBL projects to engage with during Week 7. Each project is led by a PAC staff member and requires students to utilise their learning from various subjects while creating a final display for a project marketplace.

Staff involved in these initiatives are thanked for their professionalism and dedication to our students. Creating high-quality and rich learning experiences at such a busy time of the year is a significant effort that benefits student learning as we approach the Christmas holiday break.