Teaching and Learning Update
Extending and Challenging Our High-Ability Learners
At Athol Road Primary School, we are committed to providing opportunities for students to extend their learning, develop their strengths and engage in experiences that challenge them to think deeply and apply their skills in new contexts. Throughout the year, our high-ability students have opportunities to participate in a range of enrichment and extension programs, including the Victorian High-Ability Program (VHAP) in English and Mathematics and Stepping into KEEP, a mathematics enrichment program delivered in partnership with Keysborough College.
These programs provide students with opportunities to work alongside other high-ability learners, explore challenging concepts and develop skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, communication and collaboration.
Yesterday, 12 Year 6 students represented Athol Road Primary School at a Debating Competition held at Keysborough College. Students competed against teams from a number of local schools, putting their speaking, reasoning and teamwork skills to the test.
Our students were divided into four teams:
- Team 1: Gordon, Oscar and Nelson V
- Team 2: Florence, Tepaka and Kealyn
- Team 3: Millie, Alice and Rebecca
- Team 4: Yajing, Annyka and Sopanha
All four teams represented Athol Road Primary School fantastically, demonstrating confidence, strong arguments and excellent teamwork throughout the competition. Two of our teams were successful in winning their debates, which was a fantastic achievement against strong competition.
A special congratulations goes to Alice Sia, who was awarded Best Speaker for her impressive debating skills. Alice demonstrated clear communication, strong reasoning and confidence throughout her debate.
We are incredibly proud of all 12 students for their hard work, preparation and positive representation of Athol Road Primary School. It was fantastic to see our students embrace the challenge and put their developing debating skills into action.
A big thank you to Mr Calvett for his ongoing work to support and extend our high-ability students in Years 5 and 6.
These experiences are an important part of our commitment to recognising, supporting and extending high-ability learners, both within our school and through partnerships with our local secondary schools.
Tawny Harkness
Assistant Principal – Teaching and Learning