It’s so hard to believe that another whole year has gone by. It feels like only yesterday that Mr Shadgett and I stood at the front gate in the sunshine and welcomed the students back after their long summer holiday, but here we are again with a series of ‘lasts’ – the last exams marked, the last board games at lunchtime, the last gate duty, the last article of the year …

At this stage of the term, teachers and students are all ready for a break. The rhythm of the school year very much relies on times when we challenge students to push themselves to learn and times when we urge them to make the most of the space with their families and rest. Now is definitely just about time for the resting part.

As you will see early next year when you receive the wonderful yearbook from the communications team, 2024 has been a fabulous year of opportunities for Carmel students. Reflecting on their many achievements, I am confident that you will love the summary of an amazing year at our school.

As I write this post, the Year 9 students are cycling on Rottnest in the sunshine, the Year 10’s are working through their peer support training, the Year 7s and 8s are spending the day at a farm and those of us left behind on campus planning and setting up the Year 6 celebration and High School prize giving might just be feeling a little bit jealous!

I wish all our Carmel School families a safe, restful and lovely summer break. Keep the learning continuing with a steady supply of books (local libraries are often surprisingly fabulous) and time outside in nature.

I look forward to facing the challenges and opportunities of 2025 with you.

שבת שלום וחג חנוכה שמח

Julie Harris

Principal