Burnie Campus Principal 

As another term at Burnie comes to a close at Leighland Christian School, I have taken some time to reflect back on what has been achieved over this time.

The standout for me is the commitment of the teachers and learning support aides to provide quality, differentiated teaching in their classrooms that embraces the fundamentals while looking for opportunities to develop critical, reflective and engaged learners. 

This morning my day started with the Prep class. As I marked the roll, I asked them to respond by telling me their favourite fruits, which ranged from cherries to kiwi fruit, to watermelon and one of my favourites, mangoes! As varied as their answers were, it had me reflecting on just how different each of the little ones who gave their answers were. For some, school is easy and exciting, for others they excel in being kind and helpful, others may be struggling with their learning, and for others still, school is a challenge for them because life can be a little tough sometimes. One thing that I could be sure of and witness regularly, is that their teacher sees them as individuals; she works to build them up and engage them in their learning, whatever life looks like for them as they walk through her door each morning. 

The same can be said for our other teachers working across the school. I see them crouch down to have a conversation, to give an encouraging word of support or gentle correction. I see them laughing with their classes and creating warm and welcoming learning spaces. I see them embracing parent conversations and keeping the lines of communication open. I see the hard work that goes on behind the scenes to plan for and execute their teaching every day.

As I walk by or into our classrooms, I see the learning support aides working with a student on-one-on or in a small group. I see them giving those who need it a brain break in The Pod or on the sensory swing. I see them gently guiding and supporting the children they work with so that they can access their learning. I see them support learning in different ways for those who need it, including taking speech support sessions, teaching life skills through cooking or creating a craft to reinforce that kindness does indeed matter.

I am also aware that our parents do not often get to see these wonderful mechanics behind the scenes that make up our school day, a school term and eventually a school year.

Are we perfect in our execution? No. But are our combined staff committed to what they do and how they do it? Absolutely.

As we take time for a break over these coming holidays, I want to especially thank Mr Ken Greenwood for his wonderful work and gracious manner as he covered Mrs Polden’s long service leave. The children warmed to him quickly and he was an enormous support to the staff and to me.

To our dear families, have a wonderful break, enjoy the special time with each other and we look forward to seeing you, as well as some new families ready to dive into Term Four and finish the year well with you all.

Elizabeth Scheu

Burnie Campus Principal