Assistant Principal Notices

Assistant Principal Notices

2023 new timetable structure

From the start of 2023 Academic classes (29th November 2022), Parkdale SC will move to 4 period day and a weekly timetable.

Why are we changing?

There a range of factors that have influenced this change.

Cognitive Load

Our staff have been using cognitive load theory to inform many decisions around effective teaching and learning practice in our classrooms.  Cognitive load theory looks at the ability of students to store new information in their short-term memory and then transfer to long term memory.  Evidence informs us that the more short term information or daily decisions that need to be stored in the short term memory the more crowded it becomes, leaving less space for the storage and processing of new learning.

Given our timetable currently has 6 period + tutor group and is on a fortnightly cycle, students may need to process up to 35 room, subject and teacher changes in any given week.  We know this high number of variances has a large impact on the cognitive load of both students and staff, especially junior students.

Instructional Model

In 2019 we began developing a Parkdale Secondary College Instructional Model.  This is a framework that provides effective structure and pace for the delivery of effective teaching and learning.  Our current 48min periods do not allow adequate time to work through the three stages of the instructional model as well as allowing teachers to check for understanding throughout the lesson.  The 70 min model will allow for teachers to fully implement the model during each lesson.

Will this impact the amount of time my child is learning?

The allocation of time to each subject has been carefully managed, no learning area has had a reduction in the amount of time allocated in the current timetable.

Time lost due to movement of students

There is currently no time allocated for students and teachers to move between classes.  This results in the teaching and learning time of periods 2,4 and 6 being impacted by 5-7 mins. The new model will include timetabled movement breaks of 5 mins to eliminate this impact. 

When are the recess and Lunch breaks?

Students are currently being consulted on when the best times for recess and lunch breaks are within a four period day.  They have been presented with three options and asked to provide their feedback via an online survey.

Staff have also provided feedback and a decision will be made and communicated to our school community, via the newsletter, early in Term Four.

Changes to School Dress Code and Uniform Policy for 2023

In 2023, School Council has endorsed the introduction of a Shell Jacket as a replacement for the current Sports Jacket.

The jacket design and style has been developed in consultation with students, staff and parents (via Parents Association and School Council). 

The Shell Jacket will be permitted to be worn inside and offers improved warmth and protection from inclement weather. 

The Shell Jacket is not compulsory, it is offered as one of three optional outer garments. 

If the jacket is the preferred outer garment:

• 2023 Year 7 students will be required to purchase shell jacket.
• All other students will be permitted to wear either jacket option for 2023, but must purchase the Shell Jacket for 2024 and beyond. 

The Dress and Uniform Policy below has been reviewed and endorsed by School Council and will be implemented in January 2023.

We appreciate parental support in ensuring their children are dressed in the correct school uniform.  Our uniform makes a positive contribution to the culture of the College through establishing a sense of pride and identity. It enables cohesion and enhances the profile of the College and its students within the broader community.