Middle School
Head of Middle School - Jodi Fitzgerald-Tate
2026 Parent Information Evening
Article by Jodi Fitzgerald-Tate, Head of Middle School
Thank you to the families who attended our 2026 Parent Information Evening on 16 February.
The evening provided families with important information about the year ahead, including key dates, curriculum expectations and the core routines and structures that underpin learning in the Middle School. It was encouraging to see strong engagement from parents and caregivers, and we valued the thoughtful questions about how we can work in partnership to support each child’s learning, wellbeing and organisation.
For families who were unable to attend, or who wish to revisit the information shared, the year-level presentations from the evening are provided below.
We greatly value the partnership between home and school and recognise that consistent routines and shared expectations are central to student success. We look forward to working closely with families throughout the year to ensure each student is supported to develop independence, responsibility and positive learning habits.
We also welcome your feedback on the evening and the information provided. Please complete our feedback form, as your insights are invaluable in supporting our commitment to continual growth and excellence in our practice.
2026 Middle School Parent Information Night Feedback – Fill out form
Homework and the Student Diary
Article by Tess Spalliera,Middle School Head of Learning
At Overnewton, our developmental approach supports students to take increasing responsibility for their learning as they mature. We aim to develop independent, self-motivated learners who can set goals, manage their time effectively, reflect on their progress, and make informed decisions about their learning. Home study is an important part of this process. You can access our full Homework Policy here.
Why Home Study Matters
Purposeful homework enables students to:
Practise, consolidate and reinforce classroom learning
Develop time management, organisation and responsibility
Build resilience and self-discipline
Homework is not simply additional work; it is intentionally designed to strengthen long-term understanding and foster effective study habits.
Wider Reading
Reading is fundamental to academic success, and the College actively promotes daily reading across all year levels. In the Middle School, students participate in the Renaissance Reading Program and attend supported library sessions with their English teacher. Even in these middle years, simply reading your own book alongside your child can be powerful. It models positive reading habits, creates a calm shared routine, and quietly reinforces that reading is valued in your home.
Home Study Time Expectations
Expectations and Shared Responsibilities
Students are expected to:
Record homework and assessment dates in their diary each day
Complete homework within recommended timeframes
Seek assistance when needed
Engage with teacher feedback
Take responsibility for meeting deadlines
Parents and Carers are encouraged to:
Demonstrate active interest in home study
Provide dedicated time and, where possible, a quiet space for learning
Support a healthy balance between homework and family or recreational activities
Communicate any concerns with teachers
Teachers commit to:
Setting purposeful, curriculum-aligned homework
Providing appropriate time allocations
Monitoring student wellbeing and workload
Offering timely and constructive feedback
Communicating concerns and providing strategies for support
The Home Study Diary
Each Middle School student receives a diary to support organisation and time management. Students are expected to:
Bring their diary to every class
If late to school present the Diary at MS reception for a late stamp
Take it home each evening
Record homework and important dates
Have the diary signed weekly by a parent or carer
Through a consistent and collaborative approach, we aim to develop confident, organised and capable learners who take ownership of their academic growth.