Tartan Newsletter Ed 14

Term 4 has been a significant and rewarding period in the life of our School. As we celebrate the achievements of our graduating Year 12 students, welcome distinguished visitors from across the Anglican Communion, and continue implementing initiatives designed to enhance student learning and wellbeing, I am continually reminded of the strength of the partnerships that exist between our staff, students and families.

Celebrating the Class of 2026

The past month has marked the culmination of the school journey for our Year 12 students.

Our annual Year 12 Anointing Service provided a meaningful opportunity for the community to gather in prayer and reflection, acknowledging the growth, achievements and contributions of the graduating Class of 2026. This was followed by our Valedictory Dinner, where students, families and staff came together to celebrate the relationships, successes and memories that have shaped their time at JSR.

While their formal classes have concluded, our Year 12 students are now focused on their WACE examinations. These examinations represent the culmination of many years of commitment, perseverance and learning. On behalf of the entire School community, I wish each student every success as they complete their examinations and prepare for the next stage of their journey. We are immensely proud of all they have achieved and look forward to seeing the contributions they will make beyond JSR.

Welcoming the Archbishop of York

On 19 October, JSR had the distinct honour of hosting The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, and Mrs Rebecca Cottrell, together with The Most Reverend Kay Goldsworthy AO, Archbishop of Perth, and The Reverend Peter Laurence OAM, Chief Executive Officer of AngliSchools.

The visit provided a wonderful opportunity to showcase the life of our School community and the important contribution Anglican education continues to make in developing young people of character, faith and service.

During their time with us, our guests attended a Chapel Service with students and staff from Years 2 to 4, enjoyed a performance by the Chapel Choir, toured the School with our 2027 School Captains and joined members of our community for morning tea in Chapel Court. Their visit enabled them to experience first-hand the quality of teaching and learning taking place across our School while also witnessing the warmth, hospitality and strong relationships that characterise JSR.

I thank all staff and students who contributed to the success of the visit. It was a privilege to welcome such distinguished guests, and I am confident they left with a lasting and positive impression of our School community.

Yondr Program Successfully Implemented

Earlier this Term, the School introduced the Yondr Phone-Free Schools Program for students in Years 7 to 11.

I am pleased to report that the implementation of the program has been exceptionally smooth and positive. Within a relatively short period, staff have observed a noticeable reduction in the distractions associated with mobile phone use during the School day.

Most importantly, students have embraced the initiative with maturity and responsibility. The success of the program reflects a shared commitment to creating an environment where students can focus on learning, relationships and personal growth.

I would like to sincerely thank our students, parents and staff for their support of this important and impactful initiative. Meaningful change can only occur when a community works together, and the positive implementation of Yondr is a testament to the strength of the partnerships that exist within JSR.

The introduction of Yondr has also been accompanied by amendments to the School's Mobile Phone Policy. The revised policy reflects the operation of the Yondr program and clearly outlines the School's expectations regarding the use of mobile phones, smartwatches and other personal smart devices during the School day. Parent sare encouraged to review the updated policy, which is available through theSchool's website.

While still in its early stages, the program is already reinforcing the importance of being fully present in both learning and social interactions. We remain confident that it will continue to support a more focused, connected and engaged School environment for all students.

World Teachers' Day

On Friday 30 October, our School joined communities across Australia in celebrating World Teachers' Day and recognising the extraordinary contribution teachers make to the lives of young people each day.

On behalf of all staff, I extend my sincere thanks to the Parents' and Friends' Association for generously providing lunch for staff in recognition of World Teachers' Day. The gesture was greatly appreciated and served as a tangible expression of the support, encouragement and partnership our staff enjoy from our parent community.

Teaching is a profession that requires expertise, dedication, patience and an unwavering commitment to the development of young people. Every day, our teachers invest their time, energy and care into creating learning environments that challenge, inspire and support students to achieve their potential.

I thank all members of our teaching staff for the professionalism, passion and commitment they bring to their work each day. Their contribution to the lives of our students and the strength of our School community cannot be overstated.

Welcoming Our Newest Members of the JSR Family

One of the great joys of belonging to a school community is celebrating significant life milestones together. Over the holiday period and throughout the opening weeks of Term 4, several members of our staff welcomed new additions to their families.

On behalf of the entire JSR community, I extend our warmest congratulations to:

• Kellie Orso and family on the arrival of Millie Elle
• Bailey Marriott and family on the arrival of Thomas
• Shari Fayers and family on the arrival of Margot
• Kristen Mele and family on the arrival of George
• Ashley Farmer and family on the arrival of Charles, and
• Aaron Nuske and his wife Juliana on the arrival of Luca.

These wonderful milestones remind us that our School is much more than a place of learning or work. It is a community that shares in life's celebrations, successes and significant moments together.

We wish each family every blessing as they settle into life with their newest family member and create memories that will last a lifetime. Congratulations to all involved, and welcome to the youngest members of the extended JSR family.

Looking Ahead

As we continue through the term, our focus remains firmly on supporting students in their learning, wellbeing and personal development.

Whether celebrating our graduating Year 12 students, welcoming distinguished visitors from across the Anglican Communion, recognising the contribution of our teachers on World Teachers' Day, successfully implementing the Yondr program, or sharing in the joy of growing families within our staff community, each of these moments speaks to the strength of the relationships that underpin our School.

Thank you for your continued support of JSR and for the important partnership we share in the education and development of our young people.

Every blessing

Jason Bartell
Principal

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Insights from the Associate Principal's

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