Message From The Principal, 10 May 2019

Our school culture and values compel all students and staff to do their best in all school endeavours.

There are many programmes, routines and events that we implement that sustain this culture by inspiring and mentoring students and recognising collective and individual achievement.

At various awards ceremonies we acknowledge personal achievements at many levels. Awards are presented for:

• Principal’s medals for outstanding academic achievement
• Islander awards for students who engage fully in school life
• Spirit awards for students who embody the school values
• Special awards for sporting and cultural achievements
• Commitment to community service

At the events students are reminded that not everyone can be the best but that everyone can do their best and for this reason the behaviour and effort rewards are celebrated above all other rewards.

Many of the awards are peer nominated and voted, this ensures that every student has some input into the acknowledgement process.

For the first time at Island School, parents and grandparents of recipients will be personally invited to attend the ceremony if their young person is receiving an award or generally invited so that they can be included in these important celebrations.

I have been very heartened by the number of family members in attendance to date and hope that this trend continues as we do the final events; junior phase, middle phase and graduation.