Middle School Report

Message from the Director of Learning

- Mr. Tom Tahos

We are at the end of Semester one!  Congratulations to all the Middle School staff and students for your hard work and dedication.

We are seeing a more consistent approach by all towards learning.

1. Staff are using the Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI) approach in their teaching.
2. Students are more engaged with this instructional model and enjoying using the whiteboards.
3. Learning expectations are high and we are all accountable in meeting those expectations.

Furthermore, we have begun the course selection process for 2019.  Students in the Middle School have the opportunity to make choices based on what interests them. By now, students should have accessed all the documents they need, on Compass, and should be in the process of having conversations with their families, teachers and the Careers Coordinator to help them make informed choices. Students in Years 9 and 10 have, and will be, involved in various pathways and transition workshops to further support their  understanding and develop their skills in the area of career development.

Year 10s have work experience during the first week of Term 3.  Students, please make sure you are punctual and participate enthusiastically in the work you have organised.  Students who did not find any work experience are required to attend school and there will be a special program running here for you.

I wish you all a fantastic, happy and healthy mid-year break.

See you all after the holidays.

Best wishes

Mr. Tom Tahos

Year 10 BEACON FOUNDATION

- Work Readiness Workshops

On the 19th June, all Year 10 students had the opportunity to attend a ‘Work Readiness’ program run by BEACON.

The aim of this course was help develop and improve our students understanding and skills in the workforce (and life in general).  Students workshopped the following key employment skills.  They had opportunities to network with real employees and practice these skills.

• First impressions - Vital things we do and to focus on when meeting someone, especially when going for an interview.

For example: Awareness of body language, smiling, how to handshake, personal presentation, tone of voice.

• Personal brand - this is about recognising positive attributes of each student and being able to use examples of their lives to highlight these attributes.

For example, hard-working, adaptable, resilient etc.

• Networking and putting skills into practice - this final section of the day involved the students having to challenge themselves by stepping out of their comfort zone and introducing themselves to employees and keeping conversations going.

Year 10 Monash University Visit

All Year 10 students were involved in a full day excursion to Monash University, where they enjoyed a variety of activities, which aimed to link students various passions to possible career paths and possible further study.

The day included guided tours of the University as well as a treasure hunt challenge.  A great way to introduce our students to how University life is.