On Monday, staff at Gladstone High School and Laura Primary School participated in a joint Student Free Day focused on strengthening our understanding and application of restorative practices and fair consequences. This valuable professional learning gave us the opportunity to reflect on how we approach behaviour, build strong relationships, and foster a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

The day emphasised the importance of restorative conversations – giving students the opportunity to reflect, take responsibility, and restore relationships – and how this can be balanced with fair, appropriate consequences. These approaches support student wellbeing and long-term behaviour change rather than relying solely on punitive measures.

To continue this work, we used our early dismissal on Tuesday to deepen the conversation and explore how we can embed consistent practices across our classrooms, yard, and broader school culture. It’s exciting to work closely with our feeder primary school to align our expectations and approaches, ensuring students experience continuity in how they are supported to learn and grow, both behaviourally and academically.

Last week, we were also fortunate to welcome Chris Dodd, the current recipient of the Elder NAIDOC Award, who visited our school and shared his insights and experiences with students and staff. His visit was both inspiring and grounding, offering a strong cultural perspective.

We would also like to offer our congratulations to past student Takeira Crosby-Woods, who was recently awarded the Port Pirie NAIDOC Youth Award – a wonderful recognition of her contributions and leadership.

A huge thank you goes to our student leaders, who proudly represented the school by conducting tours during our recent Open Day. Their confidence, leadership and school spirit were clearly on display. We also thank the many students and staff who made themselves available after hours to provide extra displays and information for visiting families – your efforts were instrumental in making the event a success.

And finally, we send our best wishes to the Year 9 students and staff heading off on the ski trip next weekend. With excellent snow conditions currently being reported, we hope you have an enjoyable, safe and memorable experience on the slopes!