Deputy Principal
Mr Daniel Lapolla
Exams
With Exams now concluded I wanted to take this opportunity to commend our young men for the manner in which they applied themselves during this naturally stressful period. Mr Webster and I met with students at the commencement of Term 2 to highlight the importance of preparation, which does not occur two weeks prior to the exams. The learning which occurs during each lesson is the difference, by making the most of the time each student has during class time to ensuring they are across the detail and if unsure, put things in place to rectify and support the situation. This is the aspect I have been most pleased with, in the lead up to exams, so again well done to our Senior Students on a very productive period. I encourage students to also reflect on their approach as our focus now moves towards the end of the year. In concluding I am immensely proud of how our young put their best efforts forward.
Pastoral Care and Checking in
Last Friday we celebrated shorts day within the Speak Up Stay ChatTY initiative. The key aspect and message of this day was centered around checking in and communicating when things are tough. Straight away I am drawn to the role and purpose of Pastoral Care each morning. From a staffing and College perspective we aim to engage with our boys through;
An opportunity to regularly check in
To know our boys.
To know them so well, we can tell when something is not right.
To have a connection with home.
To be able to pick up on patterns amongst the PC group.
For our students to know that a high level of accountability is met with a high level of care and support.
From a student’s perspective there needs to be that understanding that their PC teacher is the one who will be looking out for them. All staff will aim to support and encourage but the PC teacher who has that regular contact must be the conduit to this philosophy. I encourage parents to reach out and touch base with PC teachers as the first point of call or simply to touch base should there be any concerns.
Reporting Period
As we come to the conclusion of Term 2, reporting is upon us. I cannot encourage enough the role in which PAM plays, supported through the routine checking of student dashboards. Regular checking of PAM and reading of feedback will provide answers to reporting queries. Combined with Parent Student Teacher Conferences on Monday 21 July is a great opportunity to reflect and continue to improve.
A few images from across the campus.
