Principal's Report - End of Term 4, 2024

19th December 2024. Principal, Featured News. 188 page views.

End of Term 4, 2024 report from Principal Ms Jo Cucchiara.

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Principal's Report, End Of Term 4, 2024

As we turn the pages of the 2024 school calendar and reflect on this year, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and gratitude. It has been an immense privilege to serve as Principal during this significant chapter in our school's history.

It has been a busy few weeks with students ‘stepping up’ to their 2025 classes, while our Year 12 students received their long-awaited ATAR results. No matter the result, we are proud of each and every one of you. In reiterating how proud we are of all the students and their hard work, we would like to acknowledge the support they received from their parents/guardians, staff, and the wider school community during their educational journey.

We are delighted to announce that our 2024 College Dux is Latisha Bourke, who achieved an ATAR of 95.

Year 12 Valedictory Dinner

Attending the Year 12 Valedictory Dinner on Thursday, 28 November 2024, was a memorable evening. The night was filled with meaningful speeches, laughter, dancing, and a sense of accomplishment. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class of 2024 with their families and friends and wish them well for the future. Thank you to all the families, friends and staff who attended, with special recognition to the senior school team for their meticulous planning and organisation. Your efforts, supported by the invaluable contributions of the Education Support Staff, were instrumental in ensuring the event's remarkable success.

End of Year Music Concert

On Thursday 5^th December, the End-Of-Year Music Concert showcased the talents of students from our school’s Instrumental Music Program. Ms Christine Muir and Mr Duncan Threadgold attended on behalf of the principal team, along with several other staff and families who all enjoyed the high-quality performances. It was particularly pleasing to see such a diverse range of instruments and genres, and students from all year levels participated. This is a testament to the strength and diversity of our school’s instrumental music program, and a credit to the staff involved.

A big thank-you and congratulations to Ms Belinda Bolger and the instrumental music team, along with the other staff who assisted on the night or helped prepare our students for their performances.

Year 7 Transition

On Tuesday 10^th December, we welcomed our 2025 Year 7 students for transition. Students spent the day exploring the school and sampled subjects from Maths to Music. The nerves from the morning were gone by the end of the day with lots of smiling faces ready and excited for a positive start in 2025. I look forward to welcoming our students and their families at our welcome breakfast before the start up program begins on Wednesday 29^th January 2025.

Presentation Assemblies

On Friday the 13^th of December, we celebrated the achievements, growth and dedication of our students at our annual presentation assemblies. From academic achievement to sports, art and leadership, our students’ willingness to strive for excellence this year has been inspiring. It was wonderful to see so many families in attendance. I would like to congratulate all of our award recipients and all of our students for their efforts this year.

Farewell to Assistant Principal, Mr Duncan Threadgold

It is with mixed emotions that our school community bids farewell to someone who has made a lasting impact on our school community, Assistant Principal Mr Duncan Threadgold. Mr Threadgold has inspired his students and colleagues, building excellent relationships and challenging them to think creatively, critically and deeply. I would like to thank Mr Threadgold for everything he has given to our school community over the last 19.5 years and wish him all the best in the next exciting chapter of his career.

Thanks and Gratitude

As our school year comes to an end, I have been thrilled to acknowledge the growth and achievements of our school community over the past year. In light of this, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all members of our learning community for their invaluable contributions.

To our students, your accomplishments have been nothing short of remarkable. Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, in the arts, or in contributing to our community, you've shown what it means to strive for greatness and be the best you can be. Your growth and achievements reflect your talent and determination to push beyond your limits and reach new heights.

To our parents, families and community members, I thank you for your continued involvement and contribution to our College, ensuring the best for our students.

To our teachers, Education Support staff and leaders, thank you for your dedication and hard work to ensure that our students here at Fountain Gate Secondary College are given the best opportunities to thrive. How all College staff members come together to support one another, our students, our families, and the learning community is an ongoing source of inspiration.

And to our Principal Class team – Mrs Freeman, Mr Threadgold, Ms Sherman, Ms Muir and Davey-White, my thanks and deep gratitude for your unwavering focus on supporting our students, staff and community. Your commitment to student learning, engagement and wellbeing has been outstanding.

As we look back on the year, let's celebrate the friendships formed, the lessons learned, and the challenges overcome. Let's remember that growth and achievement come in many forms, and they are as much about personal development and resilience as they are about test scores or awards.

The success we've achieved together in 2024 is a testament to what we can accomplish as a united school community. As we move forward, let's continue to support one another, set new goals, and foster an environment where growth and achievement are celebrated.