Leader of Pedagogy

Welcome to 2025!

Can you believe we’re already two weeks into the school year? Time is flying, and there’s so much to look forward to!

Building Strong Teams: Clarity, Communication, and Consistency in 2025

As we step into another exciting year at O’Connor Catholic College, our focus remains on continuously improving teaching and learning. This year, our Staff Professional Learning program centres around three key principles: Clarity, Communication, and Consistency—the foundations of a thriving learning environment.

Inspired by Dr. Lyn Sharratt’s work in Clarity: What Matters Most in Learning, Teaching, and Leading, and guided by the non-negotiables of Armidale Catholic Schools, we are committed to strengthening our professional learning communities. Through teamwork, shared expectations, and data-driven strategies, we’re setting the stage for a year of growth and achievement.

Clarity: Defining Success for All

At O’Connor, we believe that every student can achieve high standards with the right support and at the right time. To help students take ownership of their learning, we will embed the 5 Learning Questions into our classrooms, ensuring they understand what success looks like and their next steps. When students have clarity, they gain confidence, and that’s when real learning happens.

Communication: The Bridge to Collaboration

Strong teams are built on open and honest conversations. This year, we will focus on structured communication, including case management meetings, learning sprints, and data-informed discussions. When we collaborate with purpose, we create a stronger support system for both students and staff, leading to better outcomes for all.

Consistency: Embedding Excellence

A shared language and common practice help us maintain high standards of teaching and learning across the College. From using the Assessment Waterfall Chart in planning to applying high-impact teaching strategies, our goal is to provide every student with consistent, high-quality learning experiences that helps them reach their full potential.

Looking Ahead

As a faith-filled Catholic learning community, our mission goes beyond academics. We are shaping creative, confident, and informed students who are ready to make a difference in the world. Together, through Clarity, Communication, and Consistency, we will make 2025 a year of meaningful learning and success.

Ms Natalie Mellowship

Leader of Pedagogy