It is hard to believe the end of the year is rapidly approaching.

Our recent Open Day was an outstanding success, showcasing the unique opportunities available to students at the College. We welcomed prospective students, families and community members to experience our facilities, programs and farm operations firsthand. I would like to thank our students and staff, whose enthusiasm, professionalism and willingness to share their experiences made such a positive impression on our visitors.

Several students also represented the College at the Perth Royal Show, where they demonstrated the skills, knowledge and commitment that make WACOA Denmark such a respected agricultural education provider. Their efforts were a credit to themselves, their families and our College community.

For our Year 12 students, classes have now concluded, marking the end of their secondary schooling journey. We congratulate all students on reaching this important milestone. Those who completed ATAR examinations will no doubt be eagerly awaiting their results, and we wish them every success as they prepare for the next stage of their education, training or employment pathways.

We now look forward to our upcoming Awards Day and Year 12 Graduation Ceremony, where we will celebrate student achievements and formally farewell our graduating class. These events provide an important opportunity to recognise the hard work, resilience and growth of our students and to acknowledge the support provided by families and staff throughout the year.

I am also pleased to announce the results of the 2027 Student Prefect elections. Congratulations to Samara Edwards, Abby Gorman, Mae Porter, Mia Lock, Macy Goad and Nash Milentis on their appointment as Student Prefects. We look forward to seeing these students embrace their leadership responsibilities and make a positive contribution to the College community in the year ahead.

Changes to the Timetable Structure in 2027

As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we have carefully reviewed our timetable structure to ensure we are creating the best possible conditions for student success. By providing additional time for certificate delivery and course completion, we are strengthening the learning environment in which students can grow their knowledge, develop industry skills and achieve quality outcomes while maintaining compliance with Registered Training Organisation (RTO) standards.

Many families will recall that Year 11 students participated in a compulsory three-hour recreation block during 2026. The introduction of this initiative enabled the College to transition smoothly to an adjusted timetable structure without negatively impacting student course completion. As a result, this recreation block will no longer be required in 2027.

Under the revised timetable, the school day will commence at 8:15 am and conclude at 3:50 pm. Afternoon tea will continue to be available for students from 3:50 pm, however local day students may leave at the conclusion of the school day if they wish. The Albany bus will depart the College at 4:15 pm.

These changes will maximise learning opportunities, strengthen program delivery and ensure students have the time required to successfully complete both their academic and vocational studies.

Strengthening Our Agricultural and Equine Programs

We are also excited to announce the return of Certificate III in Agriculture in 2027. This has been made possible through the successful recruitment of additional farm staff and the establishment of a partnership with TAFE, providing greater long-term sustainability and strength for our agricultural training programs. The reintroduction of this qualification will further enhance the pathways available to students pursuing careers within the agricultural industry.

Our Equine Program continues to grow and develop, with the College recently acquiring another school horse. We intend to continue purchasing additional horses as suitable animals become available. These investments will strengthen the long-term sustainability of our equine operations and ensure students continue to have access to the practical, hands-on experiences that make this program so highly valued by participants and families alike.

As we near the end of the year, I would like to thank our students, staff, families and broader community for their ongoing support of the College. We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our students over the coming weeks.