Principal Introduction

Dear Students, Parents and Carers, 

I wanted to welcome everyone back to what will be an exciting school year.  I am certain that 2021 is an opportunity for growth, engagement and success. I look forward to watching the learning and development of all our students and staff this year as we re-connect and continue to support every aspiration and pathway.

This year the College is expanding it's academic intervention programs with the introduction of a DET funded Tutoring Program, designed to address the impact that remote learning had for some students. We recognise that some students across all programs and ability levels have been impacted by the COVID 19 lock down and remote learning. This funding is designed to specifically target students who did not demonstrate the normal learning growth. Research suggests that up to 30% of our students may have been affected in some way.  Our program will provide support to students across all year levels, and across a range of student’s needs, including Literacy & Numeracy catch up, extension and student attendance and engagement. The College has used the DET funding to employ a further 6 staff to engage in in-class tutoring, withdrawal programs that compliment our Middle years Literacy and Numeracy strategy and the provision of a re engagement program for those students that are finding it difficult to return to school after the remote learning period.  This is a very exciting time as we are able to provide further support to enhance student academic success and engagement. 

Last week our teachers engaged in professional learning directly related to developing reading success in high school. We are focused on the development of literacy strategies that will support every child to be successful in their pursuits at school. We recognise that literacy skills underpin student success in all aspects of their lives and we are focused on ensuring that our staff have the skills and knowledge to support every student to be successful at school. Over the coming weeks your children will be taught strategies related to front loading vocabulary, word parts and how to annotate notes effectively using EMC notes. 

Last week we opened a new digital technology space in the College. For the first time we have a dedicated digital technology building – students will enjoy the new learning spaces and the pedagogies that this new environment will allow. Digital technology is a growing pathway within our economy and more and more careers require the ability to write and use code. Our Digi Tech team are always developing new ways to engage and build the skills and knowledge of our students in digital coding.

Finally on Friday January 29 we welcomed 324 new year 7 students to the Elisabeth Murdoch College community. All staff have noticed the calm approach, the respectful demeanor, the excitement and energy that these students have brought to our College community. Like every new encounter it is important to be the best version of yourself and to try your best. On their first day our year 7 students demonstrated their ability to THRIVE and in particular to relate well. Over the course of term 1, I am certain that this cohort will be building the positive relationships and friendships that will lead to a strong sense of belonging and connection to the College, supporting their academic success over the 6 years of secondary schooling. 

I would like to thank the EMC community for their continued support and look forward to seeing all of our students return to face to face learning for 2021. 

Warm regards, 

Dean King

Principal.