Head of Senior School - Edition 10 - 2021

End of Semester

As the first semester comes to an end and reports are completed, it is always an appropriate time for staff and students to review their performance, which often will be measured against goals that had been set at the beginning of the year.

I encourage all students to assess whether they are achieving their goals and making the most of the opportunities that Westminster has to offer in and out of the classroom. If targets have not been met then the reasons why have to be investigated. The first place to look is in the comments of House Heads, which often provide advice for improvement. Discussions with subject teachers, House Heads or other staff can also be helpful.

Once the information has been gathered it is then time for decisions to be made with respect to goals and how they are going to be achieved. Setting a long-term goal, whether it be a career, end of year results, making a particular team or band, people need a target at which to aim. At this point, short-term goals will need to be set to aid in the achievement of the long-term goal. These goals should be achievable but challenging so that the achievement of the goals results in the growth of the individual and there is continued motivation to keep working towards the long-term goal.

Setting goals alone will not ensure success unless there is a strategy in place, much of which is linked to persistence and hard work together with seeking help when required. Managing time effectively so that adequate time is allocated to academic study, co-curricular activities and just relaxing is critical and requires prioritising these areas of life.

Short-term sacrifices need to be made in order to achieve long-term goals. With only 13 school weeks left before Year 12 exams, the end of Secondary education is near for Year 12 students but there is still time to make significant improvement - but only if a disciplined and positive attitude is maintained for the remainder of the year.

I encourage all students from Year 7 to Year 12 to spend some time during the holidays to reflect on their performance and honestly assess if they are working as hard as they can and are taking advantage of the opportunities that exist at Westminster to be the best they can be.

There have been many moments this semester that make me extremely proud of being part of the Westminster Community. The performances of our dancers, drama students and musicians have provided great entertainment in the Musical, Year 12 Drama students in Miles Away and the musicians in a variety of performances. The Houses have been busy with Cross Country, House Music and various social service activities. However, it is the way our students present themselves that make me the proudest and I would like to leave you with is a phone call from a member of the public regarding some of our students on an Outdoor Education who were staying at the Normanville Caravan Park. This is what is wanted to convey – “I was a bit concerned about staying there when your students arrived but I was so impressed with their behaviour I wanted to ring the school to say how wonderful they were.’

What a great way to end the term and I wish all the students an enjoyable holiday and hope any travel restrictions do not impact too much on any plans families have made.

David Wallage
Head of Senior School