Dear Parklands Community,

What an Amazing Start to the Year!

As we conclude the first term of the 2024 Academic Year, I find myself in awe of the achievements we’ve made in 2024 so far. As I reflect on all that we have done this year, I am incredibly proud of our collective efforts as we navigated a range of different challenges and disruptions. I have appreciated the community support and encouragement as we started up our year amidst less-than-ideal circumstances.  Please allow me to take a moment to celebrate our collective achievements and the incredible journey we’ve embarked upon this year.

Overcoming Obstacles with Grace

Our year kicked off amidst some daunting challenges, including unexpected building cost overruns and several delays. Yet, our commitment to providing our students with contemporary learning spaces never wavered. Despite starting the year with builders still on site, we commenced the 2024 Academic Year on a strong note, which is a testament to our collective commitment, grit and determination.

Innovative Spaces for Learning

The opening of our Primary Village marked a significant milestone, offering an amazing learning environment for our youngest learners. This achievement underscores our commitment to providing spaces that inspire curiosity and foster growth as our students become all that God wants them to be. The journey doesn’t stop here though.  We are already drawing up plans for our next Primary Village build.

Curriculum and Pedagogical Evolution

We embraced the Australian Curriculum v9, embarking on a journey of curriculum enhancement to ensure our teaching remains relevant and impactful. Furthermore, our strategic pedagogical discussions have laid the groundwork for innovative teaching methodologies that will take advantage of our new classroom designs, setting the stage for future educational excellence.

Enhancing Our Community

Our achievements extend beyond the classroom, from the opening of the Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) to the construction of our lower primary playground, fences, and the greening of our spaces with new turf and trees. These developments have brightened our school environment, making it a more fun and vibrant place for our students to learn and play.

Enriching Student Experiences

Our commitment to providing diverse and enriching experiences for our students has seen us send numerous students on various camps, including the introduction of a new Year 8 camp. We love camps, and these experiences have not only fostered a sense of adventure among our students but have also been pivotal in their personal growth, resilience and development.

Addressing Infrastructure and Health Needs

The repainting of Middle School classrooms and the management of car park congestion have significantly improved our school’s operational efficiency and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the remarkable service provided by our Health Bay, supporting over 1000 students, highlights our unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of our community.

Expanding Our Horizons

The launch of Parklands Little Learners and the introduction of new excursions, such as the Year 12 Design outreach experience, reflect our dedication to expanding educational opportunities and experiences for our students. I look forward to the day when our Senior Students are training in our Little Learners facility as we raise up the next generation of early childhood carers.

Celebrating Achievement and Participation

From conducting swim carnivals and cubing competitions to commencing early morning training sessions and afternoon USL competition, our students have had numerous opportunities to shine and participate in a variety of activities, fostering a spirit of community and sportsmanship and Parklands Pride.

As I reflect on these accomplishments, it is clear to me that our community is something to treasure and appreciate.  Thank you to each and every staff member, students and supportive parent for your service, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to Parklands.  I love being a part of the Parklands community and look forward to travelling together through the rest of this Academic year.

May God bless you this Easter Break.

Gary Cully
Principal