Mr Peter McLellan | Head of Secondary

We are constantly reminded about our need for our great and mighty God. This whole situation with the pandemic speaks of a need to find truth that can only come from a true relationship with Him. 

Can I encourage all of you and your families to reach out and pray for our community and nation, and that God will show mercy and end this situation as it is clear that we do not have the answer.

With the extension to the lockdown that will continue to put pressure on students and staff, we are conscious about balancing the expectation of learning with caring for the wellbeing of all students. We will keep you informed of any changes in both emails and through the Messenger.

Year 12 Changes

At this stage Year 12 students are to return to face-to-face teaching on Monday 16 August 2021.

The Trial Examinations will now start on Wednesday 18 August 2021 and a new timetable will be released shortly.

Secondary Writing Opportunities 

We would love to encourage our students to participate in these two writing opportunities. English teachers in Years 7 – 10 will be providing students with more information and the opportunity to write in their lessons. However, both competitions are open to students from K – 12.

Poem Forest (Red Room Poetry)

Inspired by nature? A budding poet? Keen to contribute to protecting the environment?

This year, Red Room Poetry (in partnership with the Australian Botanic Garden) is planting a ‘Poem Forest’. This is a free poetry prize that invites students to use their words and the inspiration of nature to make a difference for our environment. For every poem submitted, a tree is planted to help restore the Cumberland Plain Woodland, south west of Sydney. The aim is to create a ‘Poem Forest’ that will stand for future generations. All POEM FOREST Prize entries will be published and in the running for prizes. Take this opportunity to be inspired by and reflect on God’s beautiful creation, something that continues to bring us joy and peace and comfort even in difficult times. This is an excellent way to enjoy the fresh air of the outdoors and to change your learning environment whilst still being at home.

2021 Hilarie Lindsay Young Writers (Fellowship of Australian Writers)

Keen to tell a story? Create a cliffhanger? Love to entertain others?

The Fellowship of Australian Writers is running their annual Hilarie Lindsay Young Writers short story competition. Secondary categories require submissions of up to 2500 words (Years 7 – 9 and Years 10 – 12). Short stories can be about any topic of your choosing (as long as they adhere to the word limit) and must not have been published or won other writing competitions. Each entry has a $3 fee. Take this opportunity to write a piece that provides inspiration, comfort and the chance for readers to feel connected and understood through the power of storytelling.

We would love to read your poems and short stories and be inspired by your use of words to uplift, encourage and inspire others. Please email any completed poems and short stories to your English teacher or to me (jmckay@gpcc.nsw.edu.au). For more information, please go to https://redroompoetry.org/projects/poem-forest/ and https://fawnsw.org.au/2021-hilarie-lindsay-young-writers/.

Mrs Jillian McKay                                                                                       

English Co-ordinator

Parents Coming on Site 

Under current restriction we must limit people coming on site.  If you need to pick something up for your child such as resources, please phone ahead. Once you arrive you must QR code in at reception and let them know what you are picking up. Then please wait outside and it will be delivered to you.