Principal’s Update – Term 3, Week 10

Seaview High School Community, 

Almost unbelievably, we’re rapidly approaching the end of Term 3! 

This term has been filled with remarkable achievements and events that have showcased the dedication and talent within our Seaview High School community. 

From the successful Student Free Day focusing on our engagement with engagement with the SA Curriculum, metacognitive strategies and planning for our ‘Collaborative Workshop Celebration and Exhibition’, to the unforgettable Artsaganza, our students and staff have demonstrated resilience, creativity, and a commitment to excellence. 

As we look forward to the remainder of the year, we continue to focus on enhancing our educational offerings and strengthening our community engagement. 

Craig Duguid

Student Free Day Overview 

The Week 7 Student Free Day centred on the continuing engagement with the SA Curriculum. The day began with a presentation led by Leigh Charlesworth, Megan Sinclair, Simon Manning, and Matthew Little, with a focus on: 

  • Consolidating the learning from the Student Free Day in Week 1, Term 3. 
  • Understanding the dispositional context statements created by thelearning areas in Week 1. 
  • Understanding why Seaview High School will focus on metacognition in 2026 and beyond in our professional learning. 

By focusing on metacognitive strategies in the classroom, Seaview High School can achieve the goals outlined by the DfE Strategy, the SA Curriculum, and our site learning plan. 

In learning areas, staff continued to design learning through a metacognitive lens as well as with a focus on creating opportunities for students to develop one or more dispositions through learning design. 

After lunch, staff had the opportunity to work in their collaborative workshops to begin preparation for the ‘Collaborative Workshop Celebration and Exhibition,’ which will take place in Week 7, Term 4. Governing Council members will be invited to attend this event, on Monday 24 November. 

HR Updates

Four Ancillary panels have recently been run for roles to backfill staff who have won roles in DfE Headoffice, returning to right of return sites and going on to be self employed. Roles in Student Services, 2 x Youth Workers and EALD have been filled and due to start by the end of Term 3. 

2026 Ancillary staff planning is underway. 

In terms of teaching staff, panel process for two 2026 Leadership positions have now concluded. In the role of Senior Leader: People Development and Data Informed Improvement, we look forward to welcoming Brenton Borchardt. As Assistant Principal: Wellbeing, Inclusion and Learner Agency, we welcome Mari Omand. 

2025 Yearbook – available now on QKR 

Production of the 2025 Yearbook is underway. 

Featuring students from all year levels as well as events from across the year like Sports Day, Year 12 Formal, Book Week, Music Night, Artsaganza, Snow Trip and so much more. 

On sale now via QKR for $30. Don’t miss out! 

Artsaganza

The 2025 Artsaganza – Stories Throughout Time. What a showstopper! 

Each year our students and staff come together to create something magical, and this year was truly timeless. 

A huge thank you to the entire Seaview team for supporting this year’s Artsaganza. With over 168 students performing, 324 primary students attending, and a sold-out night show packed with families, friends, and teachers – it was an unforgettable celebration of creativity and community. 

SSO Week

SSO Week was a meaningful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of our Support Staff. SSO’s received certificates of appreciation, kind messages from students and teaching staff, and a shared morning tea in recognition of the vital role they play in our school community. 

Our SSO’s hard work, commitment, and support does not go unnoticed, and we sincerely thank them for the difference they make every day. 

Significant redevelopment of our school oval

I’m pleased to share an update on the school oval redevelopment project. 

Works are expected to begin later this year on the $4.5 million project, which will enhance student facilities and deliver broader benefits to our community. This exciting development is made possible through a partnership with the Glenelg Football Club, the SANFL, and the Department for Education. 

Once complete, the oval will support Health and Physical Education programs during school hours and serve as a training and match venue for the Glenelg Football Club after hours. 

Key features of the redevelopment include: 

  • Upgraded irrigation and drainage 
  • New lights, goalposts and backing nets 
  • A modern pavilion with change rooms, toilets and a learning space 
  • A kiosk, storage areas and an electronic scoreboard 

These works are likely to be staged, starting with the upgraded irrigation, drainage and lights. As planning progresses, we invite your feedback to help shape the project in line with the needs of our school community. 

Further updates, timelines, and progress photos will be shared in upcoming Principal’s Updates. 

Snow Trip

25 students and 5 staff were treated to three incredible days of skiing and snowboarding at Falls Creek this term. Our students transformed from baby giraffes to expert skiers and boarders in just three days! Well done to all for showing incredible resilience and persistence – everyone made the most of the fantastic weather and conditions. 

Family and Friends Engagement

The Parent Engagement Group hosted our Family and Friends Information Session on Thursday 14 August, exploring opportunities for parent involvement at Seaview High School. It was a positive and collaborative evening, with thoughtful discussion around ways parents can contribute through their areas of expertise, volunteering activities, and ideas to further strengthen our school community. 

We also shared details about how to join our newly established Family and Friends Committee. A copy of the presentation from the session is available on our website here: Family and Friends Information Evening | Seaview High School. 

The next Family and Friends Committee meeting will be held in Term 3, Week 10 – Thursday 25 September from 5.00pm to 6.00pm. 

Student Forums

We recently hosted Student Forums, giving students the opportunity to share their thoughts, experiences, and ideas about life at Seaview. 

In small, relaxed groups, students reflected on what they love about our school, what we should continue, and how Seaview could be even better. The sessions were productive and positive and will be used to inform change. 

Student Ambassador Primary School Visits

A group of Year 7s have been selected to represent Seaview and meet our soon-to-be community members. Our Student Ambassadors have begun visiting local primary schools to ease nerves, answer questions, and provide insight to our incredible school, staff, community, and facilities. Congratulations to these students who have quickly become role models in their first year of high school. 

Music News

Some of our students have recently released their own music as they enter the Triple J Unearthed competitions. Congratulations to the following students:

Ryder S – ryder scott | triple j Unearthed

Year 11 Band – We Forgot The Sky | triple j Unearthed

Amira R – Amira Riddle | triple j Unearthed

Teesha S – Teesha | triple j Unearthed

Music Nights

Well done to the Music team for two amazing Music Nights, a fantastic celebration of student work at Seaview – two huge nights and really positive feedback from the community. Professional photos to come.

Subject Selection / Info Nights / Interviews

The 2026 subject selection process spanned Weeks 1 to 6 of this term, featuring the launch of our  2026 Curriculum Handbook. Students and families participated in our Career Expo, VET enrolment interviews, Parent Information Evenings and Course Counselling nights. 

We hope all students felt supported to make informed educational choices that align with their interests and future aspirations. We are now advancing to the planning of the initial 2026 timetable overview, ensuring we cater to the diverse needs of all students. 

Book Week

Students enjoyed our Book Week celebrations, with thanks to the activities organised by Learning Hub Officer Milly Pudney and English Coordinator Alex Price. 

The Gnome Hunt created a buzz of excitement, with students searching the grounds during break times. The crafting session was a hit, while others tested their knowledge in the “Guess the Book Title” competition. 

On Dress Up Day, our school came alive with characters from Matilda, Harry Potter, 101 Dalmatians, Inside Out, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Weirdo, Cat in the Hat and many more. It was wonderful to see staff and students embrace the day – stepping into character and bringing stories to life with imagination, creativity and a spirit of adventure. 

The door decorating competition was another highlight, with classroom doors transformed into vibrant displays of book characters and creative themes. 

Science Week

Science Week brought curiosity and creativity, inspiring students to explore the wonders of Science in fun and interactive ways. During lunchtime on Wednesday, motivated (and hungry) students constructed colourful DNA models using lollies. Jubes were used to represent the base pairs, while snakes formed the sugar-phosphate backbone, bringing the double helix structure to life. Our animal loving students also had the opportunity to get up close and personal with our resident reptiles. 

Department for Education’s Active Citizenship Convention

Seven of our Year 10 students attended the Department for Education’s Active Citizenship Convention, where they engaged with community members, students from other schools, and local politicians while exploring civics, democracy, and learning about the importance of youth voices in government. They took part in workshops, group activities, and a mock election. Our students proudly represented Seaview, demonstrating our values of respect, integrity, empathy, and resilience. 

Dance Ultra Championships

On Tuesday of Week 6, our Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical and Hip Hop teams competed in the Dance Ultra Championships. We are incredibly proud of our talented dancers and dedicated student coaches. This event was especially significant as it marked the final performance for our Year 12 students representing Seaview – a wonderful way to celebrate the end of our 2025 competition season. 

Wear It Purple Day

On Friday, 5 September, we came together to celebrate Wear it Purple Day, showing our support for LGBTQIA+ youth and highlighting the importance of inclusivity. Run by our SRC and Wellbeing Team, the lunchtime event welcomed everyone to enjoy music, food, and fun – with popcorn, doughnuts, ice blocks, a photo booth, and great vibes all around. We are proud of the culture we’ve built at Seaview – one that continues to foster acceptance, respect, and a strong sense of community. 

RUOK? Day

On Thursday 11 September, staff and students came together to support mental health awareness and encourage meaningful conversations. The SRC and Wellbeing Team hosted the event, where everyone enjoyed music and a sausage sizzle. 

SIS Trials

Best of luck to the Year 6 students who recently trialled for the 2026 Special Interest Sports program. The trial tested flexibility, strength, power, agility, speed, and both muscular and cardio endurance through activities including sit and reach, hand grip, vertical jump, sit-ups, sprints, and the beep test. Students also took part in small group interviews with their assessors. 
Congratulations to everyone who gave it their all and pushed beyond their limits. 

Statewide Knockout Open Volleyball

In Week 5, our Year 11/12 students competed in the Statewide Knockout Open Volleyball competition at Aberfoyle Park High School. Both our boys and girls teams played exceptionally well, advancing through to the semi-finals and finishing in third place overall. A special thank you goes to our 2024 graduate, Ella S, who returned to Seaview to coach the girls’ team. 

Glazbrook Shield – Round 2

The Staff v Students Netball clash in Week 6 was a thriller, with the staff team just coming out on top 12–11 in a hard fought, fast and competitive game. As always! This is the second event in the Glazbrook Shield series, which will continue with AFL, Basketball, Soccer, and Touch Football, still to come.

Parent / Teacher / Student Conferences

I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone for their hard work during Monday’s Parent Teacher Student conferences. The conferences provide a valuable opportunity for families and teachers to connect, discuss student progress, celebrate achievements and set goals for the term ahead. We conducted 928 conferences across the evening. Feedback provided on the night was overwhelmingly positive. We encourage families to provide additional feedback to ensure our events align with the needs of our school community. 

Apple Software Release – Impact on Student Devices

Apple released version 26 of its operating systems on 16 September 2025. While testing has shown no major issues so far, the final release may differ. To avoid disruption, we recommend students delay updating their devices. Middle school iPads are managed by the school and will automatically be held from updating until we confirm stability. Senior school students should deny update prompts, especially those using MacBooks for SACE or exams. Updates are best left until after assessments. 

End of 2025 Overview + Start 2026

Our Year Level Teams are busy finalising both End of Year and Start of Year programs to celebrate student achievements and support their transition into the next stage of learning. 

2025 End of Year 

Thursday 27 November and Friday 28 November 

  • Transition Program for Senior School students. Years 10 and 11 students will focus on academic readiness, resilience and future planning for SACE success. 

Monday 8 December and Tuesday 9 December 

  • Middle School students will participate in Seaview Plus activities and excursions that promote wellbeing, friendships and exploration of future opportunities. 

Wednesday 10 December – Year level excursions to celebrate the year 

  • Year 9 – Glenelg celebration – cinema experience followed by recreational activities at The Beach House. 
  • Year 8 – West Beach Adventure – encouraging resilience, confidence, and collaborative problem solving. 
  • Year 7 – Marion Outdoor Pool – promoting wellbeing, teamwork, and positive connections. 

Plans are also in place for end of year events and celebrations for Year 12 students and families who will receive further, specific information soon. 

2026 Start of Year 

Tuesday 27 January and Wednesday 28 January 

  • Year 12 Retreat at West Beach –– Theme: Culture of Connection – Your Seaview Legacy. 
  • Year 7 Induction Program – Theme: Induction and Immersion at Seaview High School. 

Wednesday 28 January – Immersion Days, themed by year level, will foster identity, community, and purpose. 

  • Year 11 – Theme: My Future Thinking – Who will I be at the end of my SACE Journey? 
  • Year 10 – Theme: Transition to Senior School – Onboarding, Organisation and Inspiration 
  • Year 9 – Theme: What it means to be a team – My Community at Seaview! 
  • Year 8 – Theme: Intercultural Connection Day – Who am I at Seaview High School? 

These programs reflect our commitment to student engagement and growth, ensuring every learner feels supported and inspired as they move forward in their educational journey. More information will be shared with families soon. 

As we conclude Term 3 and look forward to Term 4 and 2026, I once again thank the Seaview High School community for your support. I continue to be grateful for the opportunity to lead as Principal. 

Have a safe and restful school holiday break. 

Craig Duguid | Principal 

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