The industry and creativity of students never cease to astound me. As both a teacher and a parent, I know how easily our busy everyday-life can distract us from the remarkable work, effort and growth that occupies so much of our young people's lives. Drama offers a rare opportunity to elevate and empower the voices and perspectives of those who are so often spoken about rather than listened to.

A Year 11 Drama production is one of the most valuable experiences a student can have at school. It asks young people to take responsibility, trust their judgement and commit to a shared vision. In doing so, they develop independence, conviction and confidence, not through theory, but through practice.
This production has been a wonderful reminder of just how much students are capable of when trusted with responsibility. From directing, designing and stage managing to performing, they have done it all. Along the way, they have learnt that theatre is a community, drawing on each other's creativity, problem-solving, generosity and support.
That spirit feels especially fitting for House on Fire, a play about a bright, funny and vulnerable group of young adults navigating family, friendship and the prospect of life after school. Like the characters they portray, our students stand on the cusp of adulthood, asking big questions, taking risks and discovering who they are.
I have loved every minute of working with this company. They make me laugh, surprise me daily and regularly demonstrate skills I certainly did not possess at their age. I am enormously proud of what they have created together and grateful to have witnessed the process.