Learning and Teaching News
Reporting on Student Progress and Achievement
Clear and consistent communication about student learning is an important part of our partnership with families. At SMDP, we use a structured approach to ensure families are well informed about each child’s progress, growth and next steps in their learning.
Written Reports
Written reports are provided twice each year:
End of Semester One
End of Semester Two
These reports offer a comprehensive overview of each student’s achievement and development in relation to the Victorian Curriculum 2.0, highlighting strengths, progress made and areas for future growth.
What are Three‑Way Learning Conversations?
Three‑way conversations bring students, parents and teachers together to talk about learning. Unlike traditional parent–teacher interviews, these conversations place the student at the centre, giving them an active voice in explaining:
what they have learned
how they have grown
what they are proud of
what they want to work on next
This approach helps students build confidence, take responsibility for their learning and develop important skills in reflection and communication.
Why do we do them?
Research shows that when students are given the opportunities to build on their reflection skills, talk about their thinking and set measurable and achievable goals, their learning improves. Three‑way conversations also aim to strengthen the partnership between home and school by:
building strong, face‑to‑face relationships
giving families meaningful insight into their child’s learning
celebrating successes together
supporting problem‑solving when challenges arise
reinforcing that parents, teachers, and students are a team.
What will the conversation look like?
The structure varies slightly by year level, but all conversations include:
Student‑led reflection on learning, growth, and goals
Teacher feedback about progress and next steps
Parent questions and discussion about the written report.
Prep (Foundation)
5 minutes: student‑led reflection
10 minutes: discussion of report, learning, and settling in
Years 1–6
10 minutes: student‑led learning conversation
5 minutes: discussion of the written report
These conversations are designed to be positive, purposeful and focused on supporting each child’s learning journey.
Save the Date: Learning Conversations
For most students, learning conversations will be held over two days
- Wednesday 24th June 3.30-7.30pm
- Thursday 25th June 3.30 -6.30pm
*Please note: Students taught by Sarah in 3/4S will be offered alternative days and times, as Sarah will be on leave during the allocated three way learning conversation dates.
Booking Information will be sent out later this term for all grades.
Kathy Blythe
Learning and Teaching Leader