Senior School
SHARON FRAME
Head of Senior School
Term 3 in the Senior School is usually the hardest term for our students, especially those in Year 12. It is cold and grey and it gets dark early. It is also the time when SAC assessment becomes more intense and occurs more frequently. Students can be distracted much easier in this term. This is what happens in a ‘normal’ year.
However, as in many other Victorian schools, we currently find our students are struggling with motivation and engagement beyond what we would normally expect at this time of the year. As one Year 12 said recently, ‘I am all over the place and don’t know where to start so I haven’t’.
Understandably, the circumstances of their learning have been impacted by the events of last year and the lockdowns of this year. We work with students and parents to know each student as an individual so that by the time they reach their final year, we can provide personal pastoral support for each. This relationship is incredibly important and provides specific avenues to help them. In addition, we are providing the necessary structure to kick-start their study program again through several different strategies. Including the provision of a study space in the library after school and access to tutoring, in the integral areas of numeracy and literacy, on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. As parents, your support is also vitally important. They need your reassurance and time to talk when they become overwhelmed. If you have concerns please let us know so we can also support you to help them successfully complete the year.
ANDREW PHILLIPS
Year 12 Coordinator
Year 12
It is an important time of year for Year 12. Assessments and work requirements can start to pile up, and the odd detour into remote learning will play havoc with motivation and organisation. Given all the challenges our current Year 12s have faced over the last 18 months, it is crucial that they stay motivated and organised. As part of the pastoral program, we have discussed strategies to help stay on top of the workload and manage motivation levels and expectations. In our mentor groups, students and teachers have brainstormed and shared their individual strategies to remain organised and motivated. We have now begun the process of discussing the options post Year 12; looking at the VTAC application process and potential tertiary courses for 2022. All students will meet with the Careers Advisor, Michelle Mascaro, to choose their preferences for next year. And finally, next week, Year 12 students will undertake the GAT on Thursday, August 12.
The Y12 Corner
As the uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 Pandemic lingers, students everywhere experience considerable school stress. This stress can affect performance on tests, participation in classes, and the well-being of students. Therefore, it's vital for all students to have a collection of effective stress management techniques that work. There are several stress relief tips and tools available for students through schools and online platforms. A few of our favourite tips include:
· Creating a positive and suitable study environment – this can include ensuring your workspace and desk are organised, and keeping a calendar to stay on track. Have you ever thought about motivational quotes? Small reminders and motivational quotes are vital to keeping your spirits up!
· Get enough sleep – If you want to improve your performance in school and value your health, ensure you are well-rested.
· Use Stress Management Techniques – Incorporate walks and exercise, meditation, relaxation exercises and organisation in your daily routine. This can help in your overall health and wellness.
It’s always important to reach out for help if you are ever struggling with your mental health. There are lots of individuals like Fiona Baudinette, Year Level Coordinators, the Head of School and family and friends who are always happy to help.
MANOJ PATEL
Year 10 & 11 Coordinator
Years 10 and 11
Term 3 sees the start of a busy 10 weeks. Some Year 11 students will prepare for their first VCE external examinations and Year 10 students will make some big decisions about the subjects they will take in 2022 and the direction of their VCE program.
These past few weeks have been difficult for our students. Not long after returning from school holidays, their learning was interrupted with another brief lockdown. But that has not hindered the Year 10 students who were fortunate enough to make their way to METEC in Bayswater to attend the Road Smart course. The day was fun-filled with students having the opportunity to participate in three workshops:
- A theory session on driving safely on the road
- Practical 15-minute session, driving with an instructor present.
- Road safety games to spot hazards and remain alert when on the road.
It was a privilege to be able to take the students out for an excursion after so many cancellations and rebooking. I know the students deserved it and certainly appreciated it.
Congratulations to three of our Year 10 students who have been accepted into the Monash Scholars Program. This highly academic program grants students vital access to the resources of Monash University as they head into their final years of high school. This year’s recipients were Mitanshu Chaudhari, Arthur Demetriou, and Noah Peoples. This wonderful opportunity recognises the endeavours and hard work of these students.
And lastly, this term includes an exciting opportunity for the Year 11 cohort to participate in their first Formal to be held here at Oakleigh Grammar. As students begin looking ahead to this wonderful occasion, the Pastoral program will focus on how to ensure our teenagers approach functions such as a Formal or a friend’s party in a safe manner. Informing our students of how to stay safe and enjoy themselves is vital as opportunities to attending more and more parties occur. With the guidance of the pastoral team, we hope we can assist them to make the right choices and avoid decisions that lead to risk-taking behaviour and potential consequences.