Dempsey's Digest

A huge welcome back to all of our families as we dive into Term 3, which, of course is full of lots of exciting opportunities for learning and growing. I wanted to say a big thank you to parents for your understanding in supporting us in our three week break for students which allows us to have our 'Work Break'.  The name 'Work Break' essentially captures that during the extended break our teachers gather to work and focus on the development of programs and curriculum, as well as being guided in biblical thinking that enhances our ability to teach Christianly. 

This time we sought to find an increased balance in our approach to learning, reflection and practice for our staff and we wanted to ensure that some fun was thrown in as well. Here’s a few highlights of our time together:

• Kicking off all together in the gym for a time of worship in song, devotions, announcements and fellowship over a yummy morning tea provided by our Community Advancement Team. 

   

• A game of volleyball is becoming a bit of an expected opportunity during work break with Primary, Secondary and Ranges TEC teams. 

   

• A visit from Dr Fiona Partridge from the National Institute for Christian Education. Fiona caught up with our teachers who are studying through the National Institute.

   

• Staff in primary and secondary engaging in a showcase of learning around our new teaching and learning framework. It was beautiful!  

   

• A visit from Sam Burrows from Christian Education National (CEN). Sam led our staff in a powerful devotion on the Wednesday morning and then lead our new staff through the Certificate of Authentic Christian Education. Sam is a wonderful communicator and the staff really enjoyed this opportunity to unpack the distinctives of Christian Education. 

   

• Thursday was a special day as we had Dr Rod Thompson (also from CEN) sharing his biblical knowledge with us as he walked us through the symbolism and importance of stories and buildings in the bible (from the Tower of Babel to the building of the new Kingdom). Through his teaching, discussions and an opportunity to workshop together, this was a very rich time for our staff. This was also followed by an opportunity for staff to 'Sabbath' by taking some time away from computers and phones, and spend it in prayer and reflection. A welcome opportunity. Thursday ended on an absolute buzz with Tim Wright hosting a staff trivia afternoon which was a hoot! 

Thanks parents for supporting our staff in this important time together.

So, as the term already unfolds, we have been off to a great start, welcoming new students to MECS and Ranges TEC and engaging in lots of fruitful learning with heaps more to come! 

Keep an eye on all of the information nights coming up, plus the parent seminars for new parents, the Chin information night, and of course our wonderful musical which is coming along in leaps and bounds, Shrek! Wait until you see the costumes, they bring the cartoon story to life! 

Let’s go for it in Term 3! 

Cheers, Michelle