Term 3 has kicked off in a very positive and fast-paced fashion, with students engaging in a wide range of learning opportunities, experiences and events. The start of the term has been incredibly busy, reflecting the depth and variety of activities that continue to enrich our school community.

Some highlights so far include:

• Agriculture & Shows
• AG Club
• Northern SA Merino Competition
• Copper Coast Show
• Student Development and Leadership
• Youth Opportunities program — students showing growth and building connections as a group
• Students volunteering in the community — tree planting and basketball coaching/umpiring
• Recreational Boat Licence program for students and community members
• Camps, Excursions and Experiences
• Operation Flinders — 10 students, supported by Josh Benge and Kev Kelly, ventured to the Gammon Ranges for a unique outdoor experience
• Kangaroo Island Tourism Camp and other excursions
• Clare Connect Career and Immersion Day — over 60 Year 10 students engaged in career activities, perfectly timed with subject selections now underway
• Year 10 Work Experience
• Academic Extension & Programs
• Flinders University Extension Studies Program — students undertaking three engineering subjects over the next 18 months, fully funded, with online lectures, independent assessments and lecturer support
• Multiple RST (Rural Skills Training) Courses — including Agriculture Cropping, Machine Maintenance, Chainsaw Operation and Chemical Accreditation
• School Culture & Events
• Bullying. No Way! Week — initiatives to raise awareness, promote inclusion and empower students
• Science Week — Decoding the Universe theme
• Book Week — a variety of activities organised by the Library team
• Author Event – Love, Wine and Crime
• Poetry in Action performance
• Sport
• Knockout Sport competitions in basketball, football and netball

Staffing Update

Josh Jenner has reduced his role for the remainder of 2025, as he pursues an exciting PhD opportunity focusing on remote schooling, particularly exploring strategies for improvement and student retention. Good luck Josh. 

The following changes to classes were made at the start of Week 4.

• Bethany Monserrat took over Year 8B HASS.
• Laura Hadley and Marc Padros are teaching Year 7A HPE
• Welcome back Billy Vincent who is covering our TRT needs throughout Term 3.

BHS Pride Moments

There have been some inspiring moments that have highlight the talent, creativity and commitment of our students and staff.

Focus on Ability Short Film - A highlight was the short film produced by Eboney, Seth and Hayley for the Focus on Ability Film Festival. Their film, Disabilities Do Not Define Us, explored the experiences of students living with disabilities or learning difficulties, challenging stereotypes and delivering the powerful message: “We are more than labels; we are without limits.” The film has been shared widely and we encourage everyone to view and vote in support of their outstanding effort.

If you haven’t seen it yet, take a moment to watch: Disabilities Do Not Define Us – Focus on Ability Film Festival

Visit from Penny Pratt - We were pleased to welcome Penny Pratt, Member for Frome, who visited the school on Thursday. Penny viewed the Focus on Ability short film and then met with Eboney Kenyon to talk about the film, before visiting a Year 7 class engaged in their Democracy in Action project. Penny was very impressed with the creativity and depth of learning, commenting on how the project brought civics and governance to life by allowing students to form political parties, develop policies, deliver campaign speeches and vote. We also had valuable conversations with Penny about regional growth and how Balaklava High School continues to position itself as a high-quality educational option for families.

Balaklava Eisteddfod Performances - Our Choir and Rock Band performed at the Balaklava Eisteddfod this week, delivering outstanding and moving performances that showcased our students’ musical talent. A special thank you goes to our Arts teachers for their dedication to music and the arts, and for the support they provide our students.

ABC Radio Interview - I was also invited by the Department’s Media Unit to speak with ABC North & West Radio about student volunteering. In the interview, I highlighted:

• Student participation in National Tree Day, including tree planting with Wakefield Regional Council.
• The importance of volunteering in building skills, confidence and community connections.
• The exciting $25,000 redevelopment of the Balaklava Croquet Clubrooms, which will transform the space into a multi-purpose community hub for both school and local events.

Breakfast - ABC listen

The start to Term 3 has been a clear reminder of how proud we can be of our students’ achievements, the opportunities they embrace and the positive way they represent Balaklava High School in the community.

BHS Commitment to University Pre-Service Teachers

Balaklava High School continues to play an active role in supporting the next generation of educators. This term we hosted 11 pre-service teachers. Hosting pre-service teachers brings many positive outcomes for our school and the education system as a whole. It provides our staff with opportunities to reflect on and share their practice, strengthens links with universities and ensures future teachers experience the benefits of working in a country school. Our students also benefit from the fresh ideas and enthusiasm PSTs bring into classrooms, while gaining a sense of pride in supporting and shaping the development of future educators. This has also proven to be a successful strategy to attain and retain teachers to our school. 

I want to sincerely thank our teachers for the time and expertise they invest in mentoring and our students for the warm and supportive way they embrace pre-service teachers. Together, this work not only enhances our school community but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of the teaching profession. 

Please feel free to contact me at the school if you would like to discuss any aspect of your child’s learning.  I can be contacted via Daymap or email derek.friedrichs447@schools.sa.edu.au or you can phone the school on 8862 0600 and ask to speak with me directly. Alternatively, I would be happy to discuss your needs in person – please pre-arrange this with the Front Office Team so that I can ensure I am available when you arrive.

Enjoy the weekend.

Regards

Derek Friedrichs

Principal BHS