22/01/25
Dear families of our 2025 students,
My name is Brian Gabb; I am a member of the PLHS Governing Council – we extend a very warm welcome to your children’s high school.
My son Ben completed his Year 12 studies at the end of last year. Ben enjoyed an incredibly happy secondary schooling experience; his learning excelled and importantly, his wellbeing and personal development was nurtured, and he felt included and valued. Ben leaves Port Lincoln High School confident in his abilities and belonging to a significant lifelong friendship group. As parents, we are truly grateful to the PLHS team for the opportunities and successes afforded to our son. This has been the right school for us.
To support our son and make the most of his schooling, and to be better connected to the high school staff, I decided to join the Governing Council. Joining at the beginning of Ben’s secondary education was a wonderful way of knowing what was happening for him and the other students, and the many ways to connect opportunities that have helped form his identity and learning pathways.
As a member of the Governing Council, I get a genuine buzz from knowing that the school is achieving success pathways for students by offering the most diverse and engaging curriculum available on the Eyre Peninsula.
I’ve learnt as I go and have met a great team of likeminded parents and community members. Our meetings celebrate the many successes and achievements of all students at this great school, and I enjoy being part of a winning community team that influences decision-making. I feel very satisfied knowing that the Governing Council works as parent/carer partners with the school to make a difference for all kids.
Our Governing Council meets twice each term. The meetings are a mix of celebration, spotlight sessions (where guest speakers provide information about the exciting array of learning for students), updates from student leaders and decision-making. Importantly, the meetings are always welcoming, good fun and an opportunity to be “up front and personal” with Principal Craig Akehurst, staff representatives and other school leaders who are committed, approachable, and listen and act.
Our first Governing Council meeting for 2025 takes place on Wednesday February 12th. Principal Craig Akehurst and Deputy Principal Lesley Warren will begin the meeting with a discussion about the importance of valuing student growth as a signpost for success. They will explore the development of each student’s understanding and ownership of how they achieve their personal growth, how to recognise and use these success processes, and tools for “cracking the code” for lifelong learning and successful participation, especially across Years 7-9. This is a great opportunity for families to set the compass for your child’s learning and development and meet the Governing Council members who represent you.
Please remember that the Governing Council is your voice; participating is one of the best ways of supporting your child through their secondary education. Come and join us – we look forward to meeting you.
WHEN/WHERE: Wednesday February 12th from 6:30pm in the Specialist Building (access from Ruskin Road)
WANT TO KNOW MORE or NOMINATE FOR GC? If yes, please contact me on 0467-041-134 (leave a voice message or text) or express your interest by phoning Rachael Boyce at PLHS on 8683-6000
Kind regards,
Brian Gabb & the PLHS Governing Council Team
