Dear Parents and Guardians,
How fast has this term gone? I cannot believe that a third of your sons’ Preliminary HSC course has been completed.
The boys have survived the first major set of exams in their senior education at Joeys. The students’ conduct during this examination period was simply outstanding. Numerous staff and parent helpers commented on their punctuality, politeness and productivity. This shows a commitment to their studies which is to be congratulated.
Next term students will receive the results of these exams and their semester one report will be mailed during week 
two. It is important to remember that the change in academic rigour of subjects may lead to students being disappointed in their first set of senior examinations. As I have told the boys on numerous occasions, Year 11 is about obtaining the skills needed to achieve a successful HSC. What one does with these early results will directly influence their academic achievements in the future. Although students can say “it is only Year 11, I’ll start when marks count towards my HSC”, this rarely, if ever, happens because students get into a pattern of apathy and complacency. If a student uses these results to recognise their strengths, foster them and implement strategies that improve on their weaknesses, they will see the rewards in the HSC.
The parent, student and teacher interviews on the 9th of May will be an excellent opportunity to further discuss the academic progress of your son in each of his subjects. It is important that your sons attend these interviews with you as most teachers like to discuss specific improvement strategies directly with the students.
On the 9th of May, “Elevate Education” will conduct the first of two study skills sessions being run for Year 11. Session one is entitled “Essay Booster”. This session deals with essays and extended response style exam questions and assignments. These often present one of the biggest stumbling blocks for students in senior school.
Session two will take place on the 8th of August and will address examination techniques. All boarders will complete these sessions and I strongly encourage all day boys to attend. The total cost per student, for both sessions, is $25. If you want more details about Elevate Education please visit their website at
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support this term. The boys are constantly told that they are a good year group and I truly believe that is because of the strong values that you have instilled in your sons. Have a fantastic holiday with your family and I look forward to working with you next term to make your sons’ experience at Joeys rewarding and fulfilling.
Darren Frost