Message from the

Director

Dear colleagues,

As we find ourselves at the end of another busy and exciting term of learning and teaching, I hope that you are looking forward to whatever you have planned for the vacation period to help you to rest and recharge ready for Term 4.

The following are three recent events worth celebrating. 

We welcomed our long-time learning partner Dr Lyn Sharratt back to visit the CSO for our staff meeting where she outlined our work related to the Clarity Learning Suite. Learning days were held in Moree and Tamworth with sessions on assessment literacy and putting faces on the data. Learning walks and talks were conducted in some of our excellent learning spaces with leaders and teachers sharing their experiences and knowledge. . Feedback that I have received confirms that the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues, together with Lyn’s presence and expertise have re-energised our journey. Thank you to the staff at St Philomena’s Moree, and St Nicholas’ Tamworth for hosting Lyn at their schools.

Last week as Director of Schools I represented Armidale Catholic Schools at the NCEC National gathering of educational leaders in Canberra. Education minister Jason Clare appreciated my positive comments about his efforts to promote the status of the teaching profession.

Finally, it was my pleasure to meet with practicum students from the University of Notre Dame who have experienced teaching and living in Tamworth this term. This is another strategy to improve our recruitment and retention opportunities. 

These students are experiencing the very best examples of Catholic professional learning communities and a deliberate results orientation towards improving the learning and faith outcomes of young people in our schools. 

Reflecting on her practicum experience at St Nicholas’ Primary School in Tamworth, Alexandra said, “I’m so lucky that my university has made such a strong connection with Armidale Catholic Schools. I have always wanted to do a placement in rural NSW and they have made it happen. I would recommend this experience to anyone.” 

Alicia who has been completing her practicum at St Joseph's Primary School West Tamworth commented, “I have received the utmost support from teachers, executives, early career coaches and diocese staff which has been amazing. We have also participated in learning walks at other schools in Tenterfield, Quirindi and Manilla to watch the pedagogies of other teachers and learn more about their learning sequence. The level of collaboration across the system is inspiring.”

Enjoy the school vacation break with family and friends.

Regards,

Chris Smyth