New Norfolk High is a respectful learning community with high expectations for all. Some of the ways in which we show that are through engaging with parents and co-constructing a consistent response to behaviour.

Building on term 1 being the highest term for attendance we have seen since 2020, term 1 and 2 have seen the lowest number of suspensions since that same year. The 27% fall seen this year means we have seen the equal lowest number of suspensions since 2020. This is a clear demonstration of the impact of our work in developing a consistent response to behaviour and on improving school climate.

We had a significantly improved attendance at our recent parent teacher afternoon. It was great being able to share student food at our VET café and to feel the buzz in the rooms amongst parents, teachers and students as we were able to celebrate their progress in learning so far this year.

Part of this increase in attendance can be put down to the significant increase in parent phone calls made by our teachers this year with a 60% increase over last year. We have made this a real focus because of our commitment to building strong connections with families.

Pathways was an important part of those conversations for our Year 10 students, who have also recently been to Claremont College for a Taster Day. We had wonderful feedback about how our students demonstrated our value of Courage, accepting challenges and embracing opportunities, and Respect.

The first two terms this year have been very successful for the school, and we look forward to taking the next steps in our school improvement journey together because that is The New Norfolk Way.

Stuart Lord, Principal