Term 2 Week 5

Dear Families,

I trust you enjoyed the long weekend. On Monday, our staff engaged in a Professional Learning day focused on the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) Vision for Instruction and its application at St Leonard’s. The MACS Vision for Instruction is a strategic framework aimed at enhancing teaching and learning across its nearly 300 schools. Launched in February 2024, it aligns with the broader MACS 2030 strategic plan, which seeks to position MACS as a benchmark for excellence in education by 2030.

Understanding the Science of Learning

Our day delved into the science of learning, exploring how cognitive science, neuroscience, psychology, and education intersect to enhance teaching and learning. We examined some of the key principles such as:

Cognitive Load Theory: How we process information
Information Processing: How we move information through our short term memory and into our long term memory
Spaced Practice: Distributing learning over time to improve retention
Retrieval Practice: Actively recalling information to strengthen memory.
Interleaving: Mixing different topics to enhance learning.

These strategies are grounded in research and are integral to the MACS Vision for Instruction, which aims to implement best practice instruction, curriculum design, and assessment practices in every MACS school.

Connecting Theory to Practice

We then explored the "SO WHAT?" - translating these insights into actionable strategies for our classrooms. Recognising that our students are eager learners, we discussed how our instructional practices can significantly impact their learning experiences. As educators, our role is to create rich learning environments that support each child's development.

Ongoing Learning and Collaboration

Monday marked the beginning of an ongoing journey. We are committed to continuous professional development and collaborative discussions to refine our teaching practices. We look forward to sharing more insights and progress with you as we implement these strategies in our classrooms.

Thank you for your continued support in fostering a thriving learning community at St Leonard’s.

Details for ICAS Testing were sent out via Operoo. Please follow the instructions if you would like your child (Prep - 2) to participate.

Farewell Maddy

It is with sadness that I announce Maddy Alvarez-Claridge, Learning Support Officer will be leaving our school community as of Friday 23rd May. She has made the decision to pursue other career opportunities.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Maddy for the invaluable work she does with our students and the support she has provided our teaching staff.

We wish Maddy all the very best on her new adventure!

Alyce Lowther

One of our previous students is raising funds for The Smith Family. Please consider donating to help her reach her fundraising goal.

I'm Mia Ludowyke and I am taking part in The Dream Run to help Australian kids in need achieve their dreams. In the month of June I will be walking 100kms to raise funds for The Smith Family to help children in need get the most out of their education. 1 in 6 Australian children are living in poverty and don’t have equal access to an education. With your help, we can support these kids so they can dream BIG and create a better future for themselves. Please DONATE NOW and support my challenge to change the lives of Australian children living in poverty. All donations count and are greatly appreciated!

Thank you for your support

The link below will direct you to my page:

https://www.thedreamrun.com.au/fundraisers/mialudowyke

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