From the Principal's Desk

The Importance of Goals?

Recently I was listening to a discussion on the radio about New Year's Resolutions at this halfway mark of the year. People were discussing the resolutions that had been made, the progress with the resolutions and the relevance of the resolutions. The reflections were mixed, from: didn't start, gave up, changed to something else, accomplished and moved on and still trying.

Setting goals is an important part of learning and growing—whether you’re a student, teacher, or parent! Goals help give us direction, keep us motivated, and allow us to celebrate our progress.

At school, goals might include improving in reading, learning new Maths strategies, or being a kind friend on the playground. When students set goals, they are more likely to stay focused, try their best, and feel proud of what they achieve. Even small goals, like remembering to pack your hat or completing a homework task on time, help build confidence and responsibility.

Teachers support students in setting realistic, achievable goals and in recognising the steps it takes to reach them. Sometimes, goals take time—and that’s okay! Making mistakes and adjusting our plans is part of the learning journey.

Families can encourage goal setting at home too. Ask your child what they are working towards at school and celebrate their effort, not just the result.

Having goals helps students build important life skills like perseverance, time management, and self-reflection. Most importantly, it reminds them that with a positive attitude and steady effort, they can make progress.

Your child’s Progress Report for Semester 1, 2025 will be published on the Parent Portal of Compass tomorrow afternoon. This Report represents a well-considered evaluation of your child's progress and development in Terms 1 and 2 in both Learning Areas and Learning Behaviours. For inclusion with the Report, each student has reflected on his/her progress across all Learning Areas and has designed a Learning Goal for: English, Maths and a Learning Behaviour (3 in total) through consultation with, and guidance from, his/her teacher. Students will work to achieve the goals through targeted, timely learning experiences. Please take the time to discuss the Learning Goals with your child.

The Semester 1 Progress Report provides an opportunity for students and parents to celebrate successes in learning and experiences as well as to acknowledge areas for future learning and improvement.

We are looking forward to seeing you at the Learning in Partnership meetings on Tuesday, July 29th.

Jane Dunstone

PRINCIPAL