Year 9 News

The Year 9 Team would like to welcome parents, guardians and our students to the new school year. ‘Home’, at school, is in the Science Building, a bright space with the team office just a few steps away from lockers. Teacher desks circle the office encouraging open, positive communication about where students are at and what we can do to step-up their focus on and enjoyment of learning. 

The ‘climate’ so far

Assemblies so far have praised students for their smooth settling back into the classroom and our appreciation of their mutual respect and willingness to participate in calm conversation, aimed at sorting out anything that might be getting in the way of students’ best effort. It’s hard to believe we meet again, already two years since students arrived nervously to Year 7.

An Important Tool Kit and Relationship

We aim to keep in touch with families to ensure students have the necessary gear. This includes a charged laptop, workbook for every subject, a pencil case with pens, pencils, ruler and any subject-specific equipment. Sorry if this sounds a little obvious, but if students forget, lose things or don’t bring these items to class, this severely impacts on learning. 

At Year 9 level, students may find themselves representing Kurnai in sport or music, working with equipment in practical subjects, setting an example for younger students and perhaps thinking about a part-time job sometime soon. So, following rules about arriving at class on time for example, and wearing the correct uniform are essential life skills. We hope the way we greet students, our first conversation each day won’t be about what is missing or making the responsible choice, but more about building trusting, supportive relationships this year.

Learning Behaviour Report Scores

Students have recently reflected on their Learning Behaviours in Homegroup time. This involves comparing the score they achieved in each subject in November last year with each student’s predicted score for the learning behaviour skills released in Week 4. Student predictions will then be compared to their actual achievement. The Year 9 Team have discussed strategies to ensure students are working to the best of their ability which is likely to include setting goals, class monitoring, differentiating work and Team Leader interviews with students. Importantly, we’re looking forward to celebrating best effort scores in Week 5.

Darren Campbell

Year 9 Team Leader