HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

Student-Led Conferences

When students guide the parent-teacher conference, they take ownership of their learning. (Edutopia, 2015)

In Week 8, parents will be invited to attend a student-led Parent-Teacher conference. The process includes an introduction where the student introduces what will be discussed during the meeting. They then present their learning samples, learning reflections and personal goals. Parents and teachers are then given an opportunity to respond to the student’s presentation. The purpose of the response is to: expand on the student’s thinking about his or her specific strengths and areas of improvement, provide an additional perspective to the presented strengths and areas of improvement, and to clarify the student’s thinking about specific strengths and areas of improvement. Parents review their child’s goal and are given the opportunity to co-create another goal. Teachers, parents and students work together to determine options, tactics and support needed. The student concludes and responds to the feedback given at the conference. The College will release meeting availability times for parents to make a booking soon.

Interest groups

Last week, the Junior School was very excited to launch the Tournament of Minds (TOM) program. Mrs Megan Green will be coordinating this student-led problem-solving initiative. Specific qualities are needed to be a team member including clear articulation, audience engagement, collaborative skills, as well as divergent and innovative thinking. The success of the team is reliant on commitment, perseverance, and teamwork. Initially, all interested students will participate in a skills program before trying out for the team. The students nominated will join a TOM team and attend workshops with me to build their skills before competing. Our Junior TOM teams will have opportunities to join our existing Secondary School teams led by Mrs Kylie Woodgate, Head of Students with Additional Needs.

Images of student interest groups - Agriculture Group, Animal Planet, Chess Club, and Junior School Music Programs

Transition Program

Step 1 - Little TRACers Readiness Conference - Getting To Know You And Your Child

We recognise that starting ‘Big School’ is a significant milestone for a child and their family. Little TRACers Readiness Program ensures a smooth transition to our Junior School. 

Students

Your child will be invited to actively participate in a variety of short activities conducted by myself.

These fun activities will include:

• Drawing, Discussing, Reflecting
• Colouring and cutting
• Number and sound game

Tasks are aimed at discovering and observing students: 

• Interests and passions
• Reflective thinking skills
• Response and communication skills
• Descriptive language
• Ability to understand and follow simple instructions
• Fine motor skills
• Number, colour and sound recognition

Throughout this conference, your child will also engage in conversation, which will centre upon their likes and dislikes, feelings about going to school and interests.

Parents

At The Riverina Anglican College, we acknowledge parents as the ‘first educator’ of their children. Parents will be given the opportunity to share their insights by completing a Parent Insight form. This invaluable knowledge helps us make connections for learning and ensure your child’s learning experience is individualised. 

View what learning looks like at the Junior School in the video below.

I look forward to joining you at our upcoming events.

Upcoming events

Weekly events

Kylie Chacon | Head of Junior School