Sally Cheah-Johnson
Assistant Principal

Dear Parents and Students,

We are now in the middle of Term 3 and schoolwork is gaining momentum. I hope students will be concentrating on improvement by seeking feedback and advice from their subject teachers. I would like to suggest a few things that students can consider at this important part of the school year:

At home:

Use your time efficiently in your study and preparation. Studying for a long period of time is not a good thing. Studies have shown that people tend to slow down when they work on same thing for too long. Try to give yourself short regular breaks so that you can refresh and re-invigorate.

An intensive two-hour study session can cover as much ground than extended hours of half-hearted or exhausted shuffling about. Have a ‘study space’ where you can concentrate fully on your tasks and studies. Stay away from deterrents on your concentration such as the television. A lack of concentration is often one of the deterrents for a student to work effectively. Students who can concentrate and focus will do better in their learning.

In class:

Throughout the 5 periods of our school day, there is a lot of listening – to teachers, students, oral presentations and class discussions. Active listening is different from hearing. Active listening requires you to listen for ideas, not words. To listen effectively you need to pay attention to not only what is said but also how something is said.

Listening takes a great deal of focus and concentration - so don’t be distracted. Listening is a key skill for your success both at school and beyond. Sitting near the front of the room will help you feel more involved and ensure that you can see and hear, as well as avoid possible distractions.

Take notes of key ideas during the lesson. Class notes are very important as they provide you with a summary of relevant and important points that can be useful for revision. Writing notes can also help you to concentrate on what your teacher is saying.

Positive Education Speaker

Both Year 12 and Year 10 students have heard from Mr John Hendry AOM who was instrumental at introducing Positive Education to Geelong Grammar.

John will be at school next Wednesday 22 August to speak to our Year 11 students. John speaks about how students can build their resilience and overcome challenges by utilizing their character strengths and seeking support.

Congratulations to Aashutosh Sapkota

I would like to congratulate Ash Sapkota (Year 11) for being invited to Government House by the Governor of Victoria for the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Air Force. Ash is in the Royal Air Force Cadets and we are very proud of his accomplishments and commitment to serve.