Teaching and Learning

As a young graduate teacher, one of the first things I learned was the importance of independence. Students thrive when permitted to be independent, in a supported and encouraging learning environment. At The Hamilton and Alexandra College, this is what we aim to do each day, in each class. We want our students to be ready for the future world of work and learning, that demands that they are flexible and take initiative.

This week our continuous remote learning began with overwhelming positive support from students, parents and teachers. We have witnessed the resilience and adaptability of our learning community.

As an English and Literature teacher, I enjoyed communicating with students on Microsoft Teams. In a whole class video chat, we reviewed the instruction for the day, located resources and set deadlines for work to be completed. With my senior class, we shared what we were reading over the holiday break and debated the merit of film adaptations.

Independent learners are individuals who are motivated, organised and committed to learning. They demonstrate persistence, resilience and are not afraid to seek help.

This is what some of our students said at the end of their first day of remote learning:

I was able to do stuff at my own pace and prioritise work

I got a lot of work done when I was interacting on teams

It was good being able to communicate if needed, and being able to have more flexibility with work requirements

I am reminded of how important it is for our students to connect, not only with each other but to have guidance from the teacher. Learning to be an independent learner is a process that involves working with the teacher, to being able to take those first steps alone. Independent learning is not unlike a toddler learning how to walk for the first time. Parents may recall the delight of watching their child take their first steps; one, two, three and then falling. With encouragement and support, the child can do it all over again and again, until they can walk and run completely independently. At College, we are excited about watching our students explore remote learning and the first steps that they have taken this week. It is a privilege to be partnering with an excellent team of staff and supportive parent body to help our students become confident, independent learners, taking their first steps.

Susan Bradbeer

Deputy Principal Teaching and Learning

Advice for VCE Students

The possibility of the school remaining closed after the school holidays is understandably a major concern for our VCE students. We continue to seek updates from the The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) and will pass these on as available. Our teachers are very well prepared for remote learning; this was clearly observed on our trial day earlier this week. Individual subject teachers will have provided specific instructions in regard to revision work to be completed over the holiday break. Students should also carefully read the learning advice in their Term One Report for areas of particular focus.

The work that students do in the holiday break will contribute to their confidence and academic success at the end of the year. Whilst it is important for VCE students to have an opportunity for rest over the coming weeks, we ask parents to encourage and support their son/daughter to also set aside dedicated study time and to ensure that all holiday homework tasks are completed. I know your children will be missing their friends; however, they should set aside times of the day where they put away their phones and work distraction free for a period of time. I also suggest that students revisit the advice given in the Elevate Study Sessions, either by the printed materials given on the day or the digital resources. Students, teachers and parents can gain access to the support website www.elevateeducation.com using the user name: STUDENT and password: pacco.

Rebekah Bonnett

Head of VCE Studies