Reflecting on the year that has been

As the school year comes to a close, there is much to be thankful for. It seems that despite the current spike in COVID cases, the restrictions have diminished to the level of common infection control measures. We have emerged from the shadow of COVID, into the (partial) sunshine! It appears that the impact of COVID in 2023 will be much reduced, allowing schools to return fully to pre-COVID activities, including whole-school events and camps.

As we reflect on the year that has passed, we can be thankful for the dedication, perseverance and flexibility of our teaching staff. They remain the heroes of the day! New ICT and online (hybrid) teaching skills have been learned, along with new ideas and creative ways to engage our students. This will enhance the quality of our teaching for years to come.

This year saw a continued focus on the mental health of our students. The trend which begun during lockdown continued and we were acutely aware of those students struggling with mental health concerns, particularly anxiety and depression. The wellbeing of our students has remained our top priority and we have sought to provide ongoing support through our class teachers and wellbeing team, and professional therapy and case management through our counsellors and life coach.

All that remains is to thank our families for partnering with us on this sometimes bumpy educational journey. As a community of learners, we are deeply involved in the physical, mental, social, academic and sometimes spiritual development of each child. Our hope is that 2023 will be a year of greater certainty and growth.

Best wishes for a safe, special summer break and Happy Chanukah!

Nesiah tovah Year 11

An excited group of Year 11 students departed for Israel on Tuesday evening. They will join our Year 10 students, to commence their Chavayah adventure. Our two groups will be sharing the Alexander Muss High School Israel (AMHSI) campus, with one group departing for short stays across Israel, whilst the other group retains AMHSI as their base. The program is rich with opportunities to explore the spiritual, cultural, political and geographical elements of Israel and to participate in community service, hikes and other activities. We are grateful for Y2i’s generous contribution towards the costs of each student. Our thoughts will be with our students and staff in Israel, as they enjoy this once in a lifetime experience.

Excited Year 11 travellers at the airport

Final events for the year 

Our parents, staff and students enjoyed a series of joyous events where their achievements and growth were recognised and the highlights of the year were celebrated. All three events were held in our MPH. I am looking forward to the High School Annual Speech Day and Presentation of Prizes, with Sam Koslowski (Head Madrich 2012), co-founder of Daily Aus as our guest speaker.

The Year K-2 Presentation Ceremony

Our parent audience enjoyed the lavish entertainment, with our youngest students expressing delight, as they proudly showcased their musical talents and each student walked across the stage. The brief (but hopefully entertaining!) speeches from both the Principal and the Head of Primary School were followed by a series of charming musical items from each Year Group and then the Infant’s Choir. Thank you to Ofer Levy for the magnificent photos of the K-2 Ceremony.

The Years 3-6 Speech Day

In contrast to the two previous years, a large number of parents were able to enjoy the (mutual) privilege of joining with our staff and students to celebrate the 2022 school year together. The award presentations included both class and general awards, recognising achievements, efforts, community service – and of course, celebrating our mensches. Our new Primary Madrichim were also invested, with the departing leaders acknowledged with gratitude.

Many thanks to Tany Milner, Primary Executive, Hebrew team and our K-6 teachers for two wonderful presentation ceremonies.