Clyde North Campus News

Term 1 Reflections

Whilst the weeks are starting to move by quickly, the energetic and positive start to the year has remained and is developing into purposeful thoughts, actions and collaborations between students and their teachers. The Year 7 students have settled in extremely well, as have the Year 9 students who have made a successful transition into their new learning environment and program. There is a real sense of ownership from all students indicating what we know to be true, that our students are highly motivated to be at school. Our critical work as teachers is to ensure all students feel confident in their ability to learn and we do this by providing evidence of learning and achievement in every class.

The very best part of my job is when I get to meet and talk with our students during the day. This gives me great insight into what is important to them and how they see their school. I share with you some of their early Term 1 reflections.

In Year 7 I have made lots of new friends that I think I could keep forever. I am enjoying the school environment with all the classrooms instead of portables and the large school yard. Natalie
In Year 7 I have made new friends and am having lots of fun with them and I am looking forward to going to camp with all my friends. Ashita
In my opinion I believe that Year 7 is one of my best years in my school life. Even though it's a new experience for me, I find it amazing. I love how nice and caring the teachers are. Nithi
I believe that Year 7 is great & exciting with plenty of opportunities and great food from the food trucks! Kevin
Coming back to St. Peter's College has been an event filled with anticipation and some apprehension. I enjoy seeing friends on a regular basis, and discussing current trends. However, the thoughts of the final assessments are also on my mind. Will, Year 12
Moving into Year 11 we were very lucky to have our Retreat in the second week back. Retreat was better than what I expected as it helped us develop a greater understanding of leadership. It also brought the cohort closer together as we began to appreciate our differences which are not always seen in a school environment. Corey, Yr 11

Glowrey House Year 7 and 12 lunch together

Glowrey House harnessed the energy and excitement of the new term for Year 7 and Year 12 students by hosting a shared lunch and games event. It is these activities which critically support our students’ sense of belonging and connectedness to school which in turn support improved student outcomes.

Right now it is probably somewhat easy to get our young people up and ready for the school day due to the newness of the term and the good weather. However once the weather turns a little chilly along with the end of day light savings, the routine of school can become less attractive making the potential for missing school more likely. There are always exceptional situations that will require students to miss school, and these are important to manage in conjunction with the school. However for the vast majority of our young people, their catch phase should be:

‘SCHOOL IS BETTER WHEN YOU’RE HERE’

Research and educational authorities are in agreement that children and young people who regularly attend school and complete year 12 or an equivalent have better health outcomes, better employment outcomes and higher incomes across their lives. Therefore it is critical that we help our children to maintain the habit and expectation of going to school every day.

I have included some quick facts from the Department of Education to support parents to start up a fresh conversation about the importance of going to school.

DO I HAVE TO GO TO SCHOOL?

Yes. In Victoria school is compulsory until you turn 17.
Missing one day a fortnight is the same as missing 4 whole weeks of school a year.

From Foundation to Year 12 that adds up to 1.5 years of school.

Apart from this, school is better when you attend. Your friends and your teachers notice that you’re away and wonder if you’re OK.

WHY IS IMPORTANT THAT I GO TO SCHOOL EVERY DAY?

Right now, being at school is your most important job. You’re building habits that you’ll take into adulthood. While it might not seem obvious, when you come to school you are learning about more than just Maths and English. You’re learning all sorts of skills like working in teams and meeting deadlines that will help when you’re an adult. If you can’t show up to school every day, how will you learn to show up for work?

Please remember if your child is experiencing some difficulty around attending school please contact your child’s Learning Advisor or House Leader as soon as possible. Every day counts.

Reminders

Pancake Tuesday - Tuesday, 25 February 2020

Ash Wednesday - Wednesday, 26 February 2020

Swim Carnival - Thursday, 27 February 2020

Year 7 Camp - Wednesday, 4 March 2020 – Friday, 6 March 2020

Harmony Day Assembly - Tuesday, 10 March 2020

I wish you all a safe and productive week.

Julie Banda

Deputy Principal - Head of Clyde North Campus