Message from the Principal  

The Joy of Reading

On Friday I was enthralled by Year 2 at the Junior School Assembly, during which they celebrated Book Week. Whilst some parents may have been relieved that Calrossy only runs the book character parade every second year, it was an important event nevertheless. It reminded us, young and old, of the importance of books and reading. 

Historically speaking, reading is a relatively new phenomenon and it is only in the last 130 years or so that the idea of universal literacy amongst the population has become an expectation. Prior to early 20th Century, reading was mainly to read the Bible, (which is a good reason to do so). Today national education systems are judged on their ability for children to become literate and huge money is spent on testing literacy growth. The expectation is that everyone should read.

Reading is an important aspect of daily life and involves people learning instructions, recipes, news items, emails, directories, menus, signs, letters and all sorts of various forms of print and symbols. The printed word allows us to get things done, to communicate ideas and empowers us in many ways. 

Reading for entertainment is also wonderful, allowing for imagination of the mind, the suspense of belief, creation of new and exciting worlds and the stimulation of interesting and exciting ideas. Whilst not new, the Harry Potter phenomenon a few years back illustrated the power of reading in that a whole generation has been shaped and impacted by the invention and unique world created by J.K Rowling, subsequently transformed into celluloid. It is much more than Hogwarts and many of us can name the books that shaped our thinking, challenged and entertained us. Fantasy, romance, adventure, and realistic fiction all have their advocates. 

Reading is a vital focus to being educated and is closely related to understanding ideas, thinking, learning information and seeing things differently. It is also an important social activity for a community for it enriches large groups of people as they encounter big ideas in the literature that belongs to many. 

Literature can be viewed as a ‘school thing’ and as they get older, some students disengage and read little, or only when coerced. However, across our school we aim to encourage everyone to develop a ‘passion’ for reading. So many lessons about language are learned through an activity which also enriches our lives and gives joy and pleasure. One of my favourite things is to visit Infants classes and read to them. Young and not so young children enjoy parent-time with a bedtime story.

I believe that every student (whatever the age) should carry daily a good fiction novel (easy to get from our very good libraries) and undertake some reading when and where possible. Just 20 minutes each night in a book can develop fluency, increase vocabulary, model the power of language, create images and and enrich the mind in a stimulating and engaging manner. If a child has no given homework, I believe that they should use that time to read. It is the best way to improve fluency, comprehension and enjoyment. 

Many of us adults can talk about the ‘great’ books that shaped our lives and can think of a treasured tale that is like an old friend. It is my hope that Calrossy can continue to develop an environment in which reading is not just a dreary task but one which enriches and enhances our lives. I am keen to continue this conversation with the students and staff and welcome the input of parents. The bottom line is that the best way to improve our reading is to read and so the more of it we can do, the better for all. 

AgQuip

I was delighted to observe firsthand the Calrossy students in action at AgQuip last week. Student involvement with the Calrossy Shorthorn BBQ was fabulous and our team featured strongly in the Best Steak Sandwich competition run by a few of the media outlets. What was most impressive was the commitment of the girls and boys involved, their selfless service and teamwork, collaborating together to produce a wonderful product for the enjoyment of patrons. If I was judging the Best Steak Award, I would have given it to Calrossy, so good was my sandwich and the service and environment demonstrated by our student and staff team. 

Junior School Musicians Perform at Sydney Town Hall

I was privileged to be in Sydney Town Hall last Monday evening to see our Junior School musicians perform at the Independent Primary Schools Music Festival. This experience was a stand out for me and an absolute highlight. Our Calrossy students sang with gusto, moving the audience with two high quality pieces that were splendid to experience. Participation in a combined choir was an added bonus and it demonstrated to me that our students are up there with the very best of schools in terms of talent, participation and quality Music. Congratulations to Naomi Turner, Claire Smith and Val Godden for their support of our students, but mostly thanks to the students who were brilliant on the stage in the most engaging of musical presentations.

Year 10 Science and Engineering Challenge

It was a busy time last week with our Year 10 team also competing in the NSW Finals of the Science and Engineering Challenge in Newcastle. They had previously qualified by winning the New England/North West regional event in this area. The competition was strong and the team finished a very creditable 5th overall.  They particularly excelled in the Bridge-building component of the competition and represented Calrossy with distinction. Congratulations to the Team on their success and Mrs Toni King who supported them through the various events leading up to the State Final.

Perspectives Survey

The deadline for parents to complete this important survey has been slightly extended. Your input is encouraged as it will provide information on perceptions and opinions around significant aspects of school life. Whilst many of us suffer from ‘survey fatigue’, a short fifteen minutes will provide helpful feedback to shape future directions and leadership at Calrossy. If you cannot find your link to the survey, please email admin@calrossy.nsw.edu.au The survey will close this Thursday 31 August at 10pm.

David Smith

Principal