Expectations, values and behaviours are inextricably linked. Each of these will impact on the other in any workplace, organisation or school. As a school, we set high expectations through our PSR’s of giving our personal best, learning and playing safely, and respecting yourself, others and our environment. Our values are a great compass to help shape the decisions and directions of the school. The behaviours are often seen as the way that the expectations and values are visible in our school community.

It is heartening to receive a number of emails recently from department and community leaders highlighting how our students have been representing themselves and our school well and I am proud to share these with you.

“Thank you so much for allowing us to work with your students. They were enthusiastic, perceptive and insightful in their thoughts about teaching and learning, with a clear focus on their futures, at ease in talking about their ideas and opinions. They obviously take great pride in the place where they live, and their school. They treated each other with respect and affection, as well as thanking us for our time. They were absolutely delightful.” – Manager of Curriculum Services DoE

"I had the pleasure of attending the Central Coast 100 Day Challenge event on Thursday 15^th August and was seated at a table with two of your students. I wanted to take a moment to congratulate both students on their fantastic attitude and contributions in what must be a daunting situation for any student. I was simply blown away by their comments - Our future isn’t just about employment, there are so many other things that are more important to our future that we learn at school; like life skills and relationships. (I apologise, I cannot remember the comment verbatim, but it was very much along those lines.) This comment amazed me, not only did I appreciate the students re-direction of our very ‘employment centred’ discussions, I was instantly grounded by their truth. I felt so silly to have overlooked aspects so important to local young people. They were two great ambassadors for Penguin District School and their local community, I wish them all the best." - Ulverstone business leader

"I just wanted to let you know what an excellent job that your 4 students did umpiring the hockey at the 5/6 sports day today. They made the running of the day effortless and reflected extremely positively on Penguin District.

It was a brilliant day and you should be proud to have such fantastic young leaders at you school." – Teacher from neighbouring school

"Today I was the venue coordinator for the 5/6 Sports Day for Netball and we had 2 students from PDS to support our umpiring, and they were exceptional. The day was super-busy with on the spot changes necessary and no down-time for the umpires. Both girls stepped up to the task and were fair and hard-working with no complaints. What ambassadors for your school!  These girls were superstars.  Thank you for organising them to support our schools." – NWPSSA Sports Coordinator

Back in Term 1 I can recall a conversation with a group of grade 5’s that were discussing what leadership meant to them. One idea that came through was ‘leadership is doing the right thing, when you think no one is watching’. With the above comments in mind, I’m sure that you’d agree that our community is in excellent hands as the next generation step forward.