Principal Team Editorial
Are Digital Devices in the Classroom Hindering or Helping Student Learning?
Last Wednesday, our staff (ES and teachers) attended a Professional Learning Day focussed on the impact digital devices are having on student learning and outcomes.
The presenter, Dr Jared Cooney Horvarth, a highly regarded educator and neuroscientist, presented compelling research evidence into why technology does not help student learning as it doesn’t teach students how to ‘think’ or remember what they learn.
Furthermore, he presented scientific research about the importance of sustained attention and the detrimental effects that ‘multi tasking’ has on the learning process.
A key part of his presentation centred on the importance of human relationships in the learning and teaching process and computers not being able to generate empathy in the way that humans (teachers) can and how this biological connection hinders the learning process further.
Jared finished his presentation by asking us to think about what our core purpose as educators is and if it is to maximise learning for our students, is our use of digital devices in the classroom achieving this or not?
As you could imagine, his presentation has raised some significant questions for us and led to some robust discussions. Following Jared’s presentation, teachers and ES spent time in learning area teams grappling with the ideas, questions and research presented to us.
Over the coming months we will spend time talking with our community of parents, students and staff to consider the use of digital devices in our classrooms and what changes we need and could make to maximise learning and wellbeing outcomes for our students.
We look forward to continuing this important conversation and encourage our community to engage with us in upcoming forums.
More information about Dr Jared Cooney Horvath and his research can be found here:
The Digital Delusion by Jared Cooney Horvath - Penguin Books Australia
Bullying NO WAY week
The theme for the week is ‘Small Acts, Big Impact’. It is a reminder that meaningful change often comes through small, deliberate actions.
Schools know better than most that in every part of life, a small act of kindness can go a long way; even something as simple as a welcoming smile can make a big difference in a student’s day.
This is the culture we are all driven to foster. A culture that is safe, welcoming, inclusive and supportive. A culture that does not tolerate bullying in any form.
This week, across the College, we participated in activities both in the classroom and at lunchtimes to raise awareness of bullying and equip students with skills to challenge bullying and call it out if they see it or experience it.
At lunchtime today, our Bullying NO WAY week culminated with a march through the school with students and staff collectively taking a stance against bullying and making it clear that at Wantirna College bullying is not tolerated. Pleasingly recent data from the student survey conducted earlier this year showed 70% of our students provided a positive endorsement of how the school manages bullying which is significantly higher than similar, network and state schools.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Our school continues to provide outstanding opportunities to students beyond the classroom. Last week we had our Athletics Carnival which was very well attended with high participation levels. Despite the rain, the behaviour of students was exceptional, and we commend all students who dressed up in their house colours and competed in track and field events.
Our school production is always a highlight of the school calendar and this year’s show Matilda was no exception. This year in particular, our younger students have been given leads and cameo roles giving them the opportunity to shine on stage. The incredible commitment of staff and students is exceptional, and we appreciate the impact the production program has on contributing to our positive school culture.
And finally, we congratulate our Symphonic Band who competed in the highly prestigious Royal South Street Eisteddfod on Wednesday and took out first place for a third year in a row, outperforming many highly regarded independent and government schools. We are fortunate to have an outstanding Instrumental Music program with incredible music staff and I encourage our community to come along to our Gala Concert on Friday 11th September to see our music students on stage at Bunjil Place Theatre.
Father’s Day Breakfast
Fri 4 Sept, 8:30am - 9:15am
The Orchard (school canteen)
We invite dads, grandfathers and father-figures to come along to our Father’s Day Breakfast and celebrate the important role you play in the lives of our children. Meet other fathers, and see what learning looks like in the classroom. Tea, coffee, croissants, muffins, fruit and yoghurt cups will be provided. This event is open to dads/carers and grandfathers - students who arrive to school early will be directed to the library.
Please indicate your intention to attend here: 2026 Father's and Grandfather's Day Breakfast – Fill out form
Carrie Wallis
Principal