Term 3 2024, Newsletter

Principal's Message

Dear Parents, Students and Staff

Term 3 began with renewed energy as students and staff returned from their holiday break. It was fantastic to see everyone back – rested and ready for Semester 2.
As the weeks unfolded, we saw a range of activities, fundraising events, and school-wide developments encouraging engagement from all parties within the school and the school community.
We kicked off the term with a powerful show of solidarity by participating in Wear Blue for Diabetes Day. Seeing our students and staff decked out in blue was a reminder of the importance of community support and awareness. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this cause.
On the 23rd of July, West Coast SESC completed the scheduled Public-School Review, and it was a pivotal moment for us. The feedback we received from the review team was both encouraging and insightful. Our dedication to providing a high-quality education was recognized, and we are excited to continue to implement our existing strategies – as well as new strategies - to continue our growth and improvement. A huge thank you goes out to all staff members, parents, students and community members involved in the process.
The review team especially commented on the progress we are making with data analysis of student achievements to inform future planning and the pathways that we are developing to maximise potential for work or continued study post-school.  They also commented on the positive culture within the school and the wonderful connections they saw between school and families. 
YAL (Young Australia League) Connect is a bespoke scholarship program offered to young Australians. YAL aims to support young people in achieving their full potential, and we were very proud to watch two of our students being awarded with scholarships at the beginning of this term. The scholarship grants provide financial support that helps students to overcome barriers and to reach their educational goals. 
YAL also works closely with Sam’s Spares, a 100% Volunteer run Not for Profit Organisation that saves unwanted IT E-waste from landfill. It is run by Samuel Thomas, a young man with autism and a passion for community, environment and electronics.  Sam and his volunteer team repair and refurbish computers, laptops, mobile phones, gaming systems and other electronics and gift them Free of Charge to people in need across WA.   Through YAL, Sam’s Spares donated laptops to most of the students in WCSESC and intends to make sure that every student at WCSESC eventually gets a device of their own.  We can only thank him for his hard work and generosity and thank YAL for making the connection for us. 
Safety is always a top priority, and our whole site evacuation drill in Week 3 was an important exercise in ensuring preparedness should there be a real emergency.  I was impressed with how calmly and efficiently our students and staff responded, demonstrating our commitment to maintaining a safe learning environment.  It is also always good to work in collaboration with our co-located school, Warwick SHS. 
The Song Factory Career Taster activity held by North Metro TAFE at the Leederville campus offered selected students the opportunity to experience an industry-standard recording studio, and tour rehearsal rooms, editing suites and radio stations. We have some very talented young musicians, and this gave them an insight into post-school educational pathways that align with their passion for music.
Our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment was also evident on Bullying No Way Day. The activities and discussions held were instrumental in reinforcing our zero-tolerance stance on bullying. It is heartening to see our students actively participating in creating a more respectful and inclusive school culture.  It is also gratifying to see that our targeted programs to encourage regulation and conflict resolution through restorative practice are working!
In Week 8, West Coast SESC held an Education Assistant Appreciation Day, and it was a special occasion to recognize the hard work and dedication of our EAs. Their commitment to supporting our students is deeply valued, and it was wonderful to see them celebrated for their contributions.  We work closely as a team in WCSESC, with no hierarchy and the understanding that every member of our team is as important as the next.  We are incredibly lucky to have such a dedicated staff who work so harmoniously together for the benefit of the students.  
Pyjama Day was a cosy fundraising opportunity for Telethon, with students and staff enjoying a day wearing a range of “night-time” apparel!   It is these moments of light-heartedness that help to build a positive and engaging school environment – with good humour shown by everyone.
As we reach the end of Term 3, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who makes up our school community. Your involvement, enthusiasm, and support are what make our school a vibrant and nurturing place for our students.  I hope we can continue to build on our successes and work together to create an enriching educational experience for everyone.
Have a wonderful, relaxing holiday break and I Look forward to seeing you all in T4 - students are back Tuesday 8th October.
Warm regards 
Carol Clarke
Principal

Athletics Carnival

Thursday, 22nd August marked an exciting day in Term 3, as students from West Coast Secondary ESC gathered with the Warwick SHS students for the annual Athletics Carnival. This event, organised by Warwick Senior High School’s Head of PE and run as an inclusive event with West Coast Secondary ESC, offered students the chance to showcase their athletic talents and engage in friendly competition across a variety of events. 

Students were seen cheering each other on and showing impressive sportsmanship throughout the day. The support extended beyond the students, with parents, siblings, and grandparents contributing to a positive and unified atmosphere. This collective encouragement was a display of the strong community spirit that defines our school. The students who earned the most faction points for each year group during the events were presented with ribbons and canteen vouchers at the You Can Do It assembly on the last Monday of term.   

Students had a chance to participate in a diverse range of activities, including shotput, mixed distance running races, discus, long jump, and fun novelty games such as tug of war and tunnel ball. Students were encouraged to proudly wear their faction colours, which added to the atmosphere of the day. 

While capturing the day's highlights, one of our staff witnessed a particularly touching moment that exemplified the spirit of our school community. As she was snapping photos, she noticed a male WCSESC student preparing for a race.  A student from the mainstream group approached him with a friendly, "Hey buddy," and introduced himself. He expressed his desire to run alongside our student, saying, "You look like a good runner. Can you please be next to me? I want to run in the same line as you." Our student agreed, and the two students continued their warm-up together, sharing laughter and camaraderie. This interaction was a beautiful reminder of the power of friendship and the positive impact of opportunities for inclusion and shared experiences. 

Another staff member shared an inspiring moment involving a student from Area B, who demonstrated remarkable support for his peers. As they lined up for a running event, the student encouraged his classmates to give their best effort, emphasizing that their finishing position was not as important as trying their best. His words of encouragement were an example of a student contributing to the creation of a positive and inspiring school environment. 

The Athletics Day was not just about competition but also about celebrating each student's effort and fostering an inclusive and supportive school community. We look forward to more events that bring out the best in our students and continue to build lasting friendships and positive experiences. 

We also appreciate the efforts of the WSHS staff to include our students and build a respectful and inclusive joint schools’ community! 

Catherine Irvine
Education Assistant

Career Tasters Term 3

In 2023 students were asked to identify areas of interest to attend Career Tasters in 2024. Term 3 was a busy term with students attending three different Career Tasters at various North Metropolitan TAFE locations.  These excursions give students the opportunity to visit a NMTAFE and see what attending TAFE is like as well as participating in some hands-on activities and discovering potential career paths.

The first excursion was to Leederville TAFE where selected Year 9 and 10 students attended a Song Factory Taster focussed on music. Students experienced many aspects of creating and capturing songs in a recording studio environment under the guidance of an experienced music industry professional.  The students worked within the industry-standard music facilities and services. Sessions included a tour of North Metro TAFE's music department including its live venue, rehearsal rooms, recording studios, editing suites, and radio stations.  Students thoroughly enjoyed the experience and explored their musical talents.
Selected students attended Northbridge TAFE to attend a Pinhole Photography Taster. Students had the opportunity to create a pinhole camera to take home and learned about the image it produces and how to caption their photos. The day concluded with developing the photos.  The students created some wonderful images and had lots of fun during this excursion.

The last Career Taster for the term was Animation 2D event at Northbridge TAFE focussed on animation and digital art.  Students had the opportunity to use design and create 2D moving objects using industry software.  This Career Taster was a big hit with the students inspiring some of them to apply to follow a TAFE pathway in 2025.

These opportunities are very popular with the Tear 9 and 10 students, and we look forward to seeing what TAFE has to offer in 2025.  Students will be given the opportunity to select from a range of events and we will try and book as many as TAFE allows that matches their interests.

Karen Spencer
Vocational Pathway Coordinator

AFL Carnival

On Wednesday 21st August, 25 of our students proudly represented our school at the Kickability AFL Carnival, split between two enthusiastic teams. Team 1 played four matches against other education support schools from across the Perth metropolitan area, while Team 2 played three.
What stood out most during the carnival was the exceptional display of sportsmanship by all our students. Every player participated wholeheartedly, encouraging teamwork, respect, and fair play in every game. It is because of this unwavering commitment to sportsmanship that, for the second time, our school was honoured with the prestigious Values Award—the highest accolade given at the Kickability Carnival. This recognition is a testament to the spirit and character of our students, who should be incredibly proud of their efforts.
Next term, our students will carry this same spirit into the annual basketball tournament. We look forward to seeing them continue to embody the values of teamwork, respect, and good sportsmanship on and off the court.

Anthony Raschilla
Teacher

Hidden Disability Sunflower Wristband

WCSESC has purchased Hidden Disability sunflower wristbands for every student. 
The wristband acts as a subtle way to indicate that the wearer has a hidden disability and may need additional support in public settings. These wristbands will be given to students to wear on days when they go on excursions or engage in community access activities. Some students may choose not to wear them, and that’s perfectly fine – but they will be informed about the purpose of the wristbands and when they can be helpful.
The sunflower symbol is widely recognised, especially in airports around the world. If you have any upcoming trips, please let me know, and I can provide wristbands for your child and any siblings if needed before you travel.

Tamara Gill
Parent Liaison Officer

Sakura Festival

n Tuesday, 17th of September 2024, our school once again embraced the beauty and traditions of Japan through the annual Sakura Festival. This year’s event brought students and staff together in a vibrant celebration of Japanese art, food, and culture.

This year’s collaborative art project involved students creating beautifully decorated paper fans. These fans will be displayed at school and then sent as a special gift to our sister school in Hiroshima (Fukuyamakita Special School), strengthening our ongoing relationship.

The individual art competition saw students design their own unique koi fish, with creativity shining in each entry. For the class competition, groups worked together to create stunning Japanese landscape scenes, showcasing the natural beauty of Japan.

In Week 1 of Term 4, we will be announcing the winners of both art competitions, as well as the best-dressed student, nominated by their teacher. These nominations will go into a draw, with one lucky winner receiving a canteen voucher!

For Sakura this year, we were also treated to a Japanese Infusion incursion during Period 3. Students engaged in fun and educational activities, including playing traditional Japanese drums to music, giving them a taste of Japan’s rich cultural heritage. During Period 4, students enjoyed a Japanese Ink Art (Sumi-e) demonstration, where they had the opportunity to create their own ink masterpieces using calligraphy brushes and rice paper.
Lunchtime was a culinary delight, with staff and students making their own sushi. With a choice between chicken, tuna, or vegetarian sushi, there was something for everyone. For those who preferred a sweet alternative, we offered 'fruishi'—a creative twist using chopped fruit and honey wrapped in a tortilla, rolled and sliced to resemble sushi.

In Term 4, we will hold our annual web chat with students and staff from our sister school, with nominating students from each class, being invited to ask and answer questions, to enable us to get to know each other and strengthen our relationship.

A big thank you to all the staff for your assistance and enthusiasm, which ensured maximum student engagement throughout the day. Your contributions helped make Sakura Festival 2024 a day to remember!

Christine Abbott
Cultural Studies teacher

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Get Up and Goal, School Discover Program

In Term 2 and 3 some of our senior students attended an exciting new pilot program run by ULaunch and Purple Hands Foundation. James, Mark, Michael, Jayce and Aleira participated in an exciting journey of self-discovery and skill-building. This was a 12-session program delivered over nine weeks, each session was packed with hands-on activities including a virtual reality experience. 

The aim of the program is to give young people an opportunity to unlock their potential and pave the way for future success.  The program is a project-based learning experience to build job readiness skills whilst, working with employers to provide the participants with real life industry skills. The objectives of participating in this project will be improved job readiness, increased employment-related skills, and industry knowledge. The topics covered in the program include:

- Get Up and Goal Team Time – dive into career aspirations, SMART goals.
- Dream Weaver – interests, passions, future goals.
- Career Roadmap – crafting resumes and cover letters.
- Career Safari – MEGT Virtual Reality career tours.
- Dress for Success – PPE fashion.
- Workplace Essentials – understand workplace norms.
- Career Exploration – work experience with chosen industry.
- Interview Mastery – mock interviews.
- Mindful Minds – dealing with stress.
- Work Ready – transition to work skills.
- Future Pathways – pathway mapping. 

The course was concluded with a graduation celebration at the home of the Dockers in Cockburn where students were shown around the players areas by AFLW player Aine Tighe.  The students enjoyed seeing the players classroom, plunge pools, locker room, chill out sensory room and players rest and relax area with kitchen, pool and table tennis tables and PlayStation 5’s.  Students socialised with students from Dianella Secondary College that also completed the course at their school.

We are very proud of our graduates: James, Mark, Michael, Jayce and Aleira for their perseverance to complete the program and their excellent behaviour on excursion that showed what good ambassadors they are for WCSESC.

Karen Spencer
Vocational Pathway Coordinator

Landsdale Farm

This term at Landsdale Farm, students have been given the opportunity to feed the animals and ensure that their paddocks are safe and clean. This has become our regular first session during each visit to the farm. Other jobs this term have included removing brick walls and pallets, moving limetone blocks to reinforce the compost area and general gardening and maintenance around the farm.
As the term has progressed all students have been developing their independence and teamwork skills. They are also learning practical skills such as problem solving, time management and responsibility, which will be valuable in their everyday lives and future careers when they leave school.

Anthony Raschilla
Teacher

Youth Forum and Council Meeting, City of Joondalup

On Tuesday, 27th August, WCSESC had the opportunity to send a small group of student representatives to attend a Youth Workshop and Ordinary Council meeting at the Joondalup Council Chambers. The students invited were Aliera and Anthony, Lucas , Michael, and Cody. Samson was also invited and submitted a question for the council meeting, but unfortunately, he was unable to attend the excursion.
Upon arrival, staff and students were warmly greeted by friendly City of Joondalup representatives and treated to a table full of delicious dishes for morning tea. The students then participated in a Youth Workshop, which focused on selfless leadership, active listening, switching perspectives (i.e., empathy), and how to be genuine and sincere to influence others to make positive changes.
Students were divided into groups with students from other schools for team-building activities, followed by a brainstorming session. They identified issues affecting youth in the City of Joondalup and brainstormed possible solutions, which they then prioritised and presented to the Council for consideration. Cody volunteered a well thought answer to a question and even won a $30 JB HI-FI voucher, which he was thrilled to receive—well done, Cody! It was wonderful to see our students confidently and positively networking with their peers from other schools. We certainly have some future leaders in our midst!
After the workshop, we were treated to a lovely lunch. We then proceeded to the Council Chambers for the meeting. Prior to the event, each student had submitted a question for the Joondalup Council to address, which they responded to both in writing and, for some questions, in person at the meeting. Cody, Lucas, and Aliera volunteered to speak on behalf of the group and did so admirably! They spoke clearly and remembered to thank the Director and Mayor for their time. Written responses to all questions have been shared with staff and students.
The questions submitted by students reflected their interests and priorities:
•    Samson: How is the City of Joondalup ensuring that community health services, including mental health support, are accessible to students and their families?
•    Anthony: What inclusive youth programs are being developed or supported by the City of Joondalup to cater to students with special needs?
•    Aliera: What steps is the City of Joondalup taking to make sport and recreational facilities, such as HBF Arena, more inclusive for students with disabilities?
•    Cody: What measures have been or are being put in place to ensure that every school has wheelchair accessibility?
•    Lucas: How is the City of Joondalup collaborating with local schools to address the needs and concerns of students, especially those in special education programs?
•    Michael: What steps is the Joondalup Council taking to ensure that local musical programs are accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities, including considerations for venue accessibility, sensory-friendly environments, and opportunities for participation?

We all had a fantastic day, and the students performed exceptionally well! They even received a showbag full of goodies on the way out (as did the staff!). Additionally, each student was awarded a Certificate of Participation to add to their school leaver’s portfolio.

Mrs Christine Abbott
Teacher

Work Skills

The staff and students in Work skills have had a productive term 3. 

At the beginning of the year, staff in Work skills created a ‘skills I need list’.  This list is based loosely on basic life skills and skills used in the workplace.  Throughout this year, staff began testing each individual student on each skill from the list, recording the results and pinpointing the exact skills each student needs to focus on.  

This term we welcomed the lovely students from Area G.  These students have enjoyed a lot of our practical/hands on activities, including, the jobs we receive from Remida and Give Write.  We have concentrated a lot on sorting and testing stationery this term.  We also had the task of measuring ribbon and cutting it to size for Remida.

The Area G students have slotted in perfectly and we look forward to having them back next term.

Dionne Rowe and Jenny Hermans
Education Assistants

Aboriginal Cultural Awareness Day

On Tuesday 6th of August, WCSESC hosted their Aboriginal Cultural Awareness Day where students had a range of activities to explore and develop their understanding of Aboriginal Culture. The day was divided into 2 sessions and students participated in the following
• Djirrily Dreaming: Belinda came out and taught our students how to make wellness bags with essential oils as well as a make and take natural deodorant that was made from cornflower and oil. Native plants were on display which students were invited to taste and they were also given the opportunity to thrown gumnuts and spears!
• Craft Activities: Students were supplied with a small canvas to create their own personal dot paintings to keep and take home.  We also talked about how we can look after our country and what will happen if we don’t. Posters of what the Aboriginal symbols represented were displayed and students were encouraged to create their own story using these symbols. These have been put up for display at the entrance to the school.  

After lunch students went back to their classes to do some mindfulness relevant colouring and watch a video about Indigenous culture. 

The feedback from both students and staff overwhelming was that it was a great day with all the content extremely engaging and really interesting to do the practical activities. A wonderful day was had where everyone left with a new understanding of Aboriginal culture.

Sarah Hills
Bushranger Leader

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Parent/Guardian Morning Tea

On Thursday, 5th September, we hosted our Term 3 Parent/Guardian Morning Tea in the staff room, and we were thrilled with the fantastic turnout! It was wonderful to see so many of our parents and guardians come together to connect and share experiences.
We were fortunate to have a guest presenter from Inclusion WA who provided an insightful presentation on the intricacies of self-managing an NDIS plan. The session covered several key topics, including:
•    Differences between Self-Managed, Plan-Managed, and Organisation-Managed Supports: Understanding the unique aspects of each management option.
•    Key Considerations for Self-Management: What you need to know before deciding to self-manage your plan.
•    Responsibilities of Self-Management: What is required from you if you choose to take on self-management.
Thank you to everyone who attended and made the morning a success. We look forward to seeing you at our next event!

Tamara Gill
Parent Liaison Officer

Fundraising Events

Each year the West Coast SESC staff and students are proud to support several organisations and contribute to their fundraising endeavours. It is an opportunity to teach our students about leadership and compassion for others - all while raising money to help these organisations.

It is always fun to be able to swap our uniform for jeans when we are at school, but Jeans for Genes Day is also an opportunity to raise valuable funds to fight against childhood genetic diseases. Every dollar we donated went directly to Children's Medical Research Institute to help our scientists find treatments and cures. 
Thanks to the generosity of our school community we were able to raise $147.95.
 
Each year our Centre supports Daffodil Day to help raise funds for cancer research, prevention programs and support services for cancer patients and their families. 
This is always a wonderful opportunity to raise vital funds for an important cause and to educate and raise awareness within our school community.
The total amount of money we raised was $274.95.
This year we held a Free-Dress event for National Diabetes Week to raise valuable funds for Diabetes Australia who are committed to raising awareness and challenging misconceptions surrounding all types of Diabetes. This year they are shining a light on the impact of diabetes tech and what needs to be done to improve access. Through the generosity of our whole school community, we raised $159.95 to help support people living with diabetes.
Thank you all for your support!

Rebecca Wenn
Event Coordinator

Student Achievement

This term, Josh has been working towards earning his skipper's ticket at Hillary's Boat Harbour. After passing the theory exam on his first try, he faced some challenges with the practical assessment. Not one to give up, Josh spent some time practicing on his granddad's boat to build his skills and confidence.

In week 10, Josh returned for his practical exam, and we’re excited to announce that he passed! This remarkable achievement has made him, his family, and the school staff very proud.

Congratulations, Captain Josh! We can’t wait to see where your new skills will take you!

Oliver Snowdon
Teacher

Work Health and Safety

We are pleased to announce that the 2024 – 2025 Standalone Bushfire Plan has been successfully completed in accordance with the Department of Education guidelines.

In August 2024, WCSESC & WSHS conducted a successful Safer Place evacuation drill, and we are gearing up for the next drill – Lockdown – scheduled for November 2024. We will continue to review and refine our protocols, considering any new developments or insights gained from our ongoing drills and exercises. Our goal is to ensure that our school community is well-prepared to handle any emergency that may arise.

We have diligently updated all classroom Evacuation files to ensure that both students and staff are well-acquainted with the procedures.

Debbie Pember
OSH representative