Dear students, parents, staff and community,
Welcome back students, parents, staff and community members for an exciting year at Hazel Glen College. It is with great excitement and anticipation that I welcome you all back to another wonderful school year. Whether you are a returning student or staff member, new to the College, or supportive parents or carers, we are thrilled to have you as part of our Hazel Glen family for 2025.
As we embark on this new academic journey, I want to take a moment to reflect on the core values that define us as a college: Respect, Resilience, Relationships, and Responsibility.
These values are not just words; they are the foundation upon which we build our daily interactions, our learning experiences, and our personal growth.
Respect is at the heart of everything we do. It means valuing each other’s differences, listening with an open mind, and treating everyone with kindness and consideration.
This year let’s make a conscious effort to show respect in all our interactions, whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or in our everyday conversations. By doing so, we create a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges and setbacks. It is about having the courage to face difficulties head-on and the determination to keep going, even when things get tough.
This year, we will continue to foster resilience in our students by providing them with the tools and support they need to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger and wiser.
Our connections and relationships are the bonds that connect us. They are built on trust, empathy, and mutual support. At Hazel Glen College, we believe that strong relationships are the key to a thriving school community.
This year, our focus is on building strong professional connections and relationships with our students. We want every student to feel a sense of belonging and pride in attending our College. Let’s work together to create an environment where everyone feels connected and supported.
Responsibility is about being accountable for our actions and making positive contributions to our community. It means taking ownership of our learning, our behaviour, and our impact on others. I hope that all students stay proud of their actions to better themselves with enthusiasm and commitment.
Whether it’s completing assessment tasks and handing them in on time, participating in school activities, camps or excursions or supporting a fellow student, every act of responsibility helps to build a stronger and more consistent and accepting school culture and climate.
As we look ahead to the coming year, I am excited about the opportunities that lie before us. Our focus on building strong professional connections and relationships with students is a key target for the college. We know that when students feel connected to their teachers and peers, they are more engaged, motivated, and successful in their learning.
To our students, I look forward to collaborating strongly with you to ensure we make this College an amazing place to come and learn and work. I want to ensure that students and families and proud that they attend Hazel Glen College. I encourage all students to embrace the opportunities that come your way and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
Get involved in extra-curricular activities, join clubs, and make new friends. Remember, your time at Hazel Glen is what you make of it, so make it count!
To our staff, thank you for your unwavering dedication and commitment to our students. I know that your hard work, passion for education and making a positive difference in the education journeys of the students you teach are what make Hazel Glen College a special place.
This year, let’s continue to build strong connections and relationships with our students, support their growth and areas of need and inspire them to reach their full potential. To our parents and guardians, thank you for your continued support and partnership. Your involvement in your child’s education is invaluable, and we look forward to working together to ensure their success.
Let’s continue to communicate openly and work collaboratively to create the best possible learning environment for our students. I need to recognise the amazing work from our student leadership academy in 2024 in collaborating with Kyle Wakeham, an artist from Brightside Art Studio to design a mural for the side of the senior school building.
The design chosen incorporates:
- Sulphur Crested Cockatoo – symbolises having fun in what you do, and strong connections to family & community.
- Rainbow Lorikeet – symbolises fulfilment, creativity and individuality. Also connection to others in your community.
- Bee’s to symbolise hard work, teamwork and making a positive contribution to the world. The use of 4 bees symbolises each of our School’s Values.
- Gum Leaves to symbolise community & welcoming. Mana Gum Leaves are used in traditional Welcoming/Smoking Ceremonies.
- The Wooley Tea-Tree plant is found locally in the Nillumbik area and symbolises knowledge by its use for various purposes including medicinal & tools.
It is also extremely exciting that this year we have committed to taking senior students to NASA in the USA and we have a group of Year 9 and 10 students returning to Ngukurr a remote Aboriginal community in the Northern Territory in Arnhem Land where they will volunteer in the local school.
In closing, I want to remind everyone that we are all part of the Hazel Glen College family. Together, we can achieve great things. Let’s make this year one of growth, connection, and pride in being part of the college.
Let’s show respect, demonstrate resilience, build strong relationships, and take responsibility for our actions. Welcome back to school, and let’s make this year a successful one for all students.
One College. Everyone Matters
Thank you.
Anthony Stockwell
College Principal
To view the Primary Years Newsletters, please click here.
To view the Secondary Years Newsletters, please click here.