Acting Deputy Principal 

In writing this week’s newsletter article I wanted to give an insight into some of the day-to-day experiences of our boys at Austins Ferry. Last week, in particular we had a series of projects and initiatives on display for our young men and it highlighted just how fortunate our boys are to have the amazing staff they do. From making race cars with Mr Maxwell to all the amazing Science activities including making ice cream in the quad, with the entire Science Department displaying their skills in front of a huge crowd. We encourage our boys to try and explore and find their passion and interests. This is without a doubt encouraged by our staff with all the amazing out of the box tasks and activities going on at the College.

 It is then up to our young men to immerse themselves and give things a go. Too often boys are resistant, hesitant or sit on the fence. It is crucial to go into classes with an open mind and be willing to try, only once you have tried can you begin to formulate an option. Those who are often successful in particular areas had humble beginnings of simply taking the first step to try having people around them encouraging them to do so. 

 I encourage our young men to be brave, ask questions, give things a go and you never know what could eventuate as a result.

Review Week

As has been communicated in recent weeks, Review Week is a new initiative which aims  to provide support to identified students who would benefit from time engaged in: 

• Goal setting
• Values base education
• Social skills booklet 
• Character strengths
• Complete/finish off outstanding work 
• Support to complete work
• Mindfulness
• Self-reflection analysis

The support identified for each student is based upon teacher assessment over a two week period in the following areas: 

• Needs additional time to complete tasks; 
• Has trouble regulating their emotions; and/or
• Needs strategies to regulate behaviour. 

We encourage you to speak with your son’s Head of House if you receive an EdSmart notification that your son has been selected in the Review Week programme. 

If you have any queries regarding your son’s selection please contact: 

Doyle: Mr Will Geeves.  Dwyer: Mr Ken Holloway

Hessian: Mr Mark Beck  Joyce: Mrs Nadia Jones

Thank you for your support of this important student formation initiative