Learning and Teaching

As we have navigated our way through the first two weeks of the new school year, it has been wonderful to connect with returning students and meet new faces to the College. Our students seem to be ready to get into a new year of learning, both in and out of the classroom and there has been a feeling of community and support from the ELC through to the senior students.

At our first Senior School assembly last week, I shared with the students about the focus and key words that I will work on this year, and that I am asking them to bring to their learning, both in and out of the classroom.

• Curiosity –to engage with new ideas and experiences, to ask questions of and about themselves and others to deepen their understanding and engagement with the world around them.

   

• Optimism – having faith, hope and confidence when things are going well and when they are not,

• Resilience – looking inside ourselves but also around to see all of the support and guidance that exists to help them through the ups and downs of learning and life.

As students settle into the new school year, parents can help their children by ensuring they have a space for their materials and to study at home and sharing reminders about being ready to learn for each class. Arriving prepared eases anxiety and helps students focus on the learning. My key reminders at assembly were arriving prepared, remembering record books and subject materials, being proactive with homework and demonstrating respect for their learning of that of others.

I encourage parents of Year 7 and 8 students to attend the Meet and Greet next Wednesday 18 February between 4-6pm. This is an informal drop-in session where you can meet our Middle Years Mentors and Heads of House in person. They will be available to share information and answer any key questions that you might have.

For parents of students in Years 9 – 12, I would encourage you to make an appointment to speak with your child/ren’s Mentor during our Mentor Meetings on Thursday 26 February. These are held online and are a great way to start the year and set up a strong point of contact between families and the school.

I really enjoyed catching up with some of the many Junior School families who attended our Junior School Parent Information Night this week, and it was a wonderful opportunity for parents to meet staff and hear about the programs and experiences being offered this year.

As we near the end of Week 2, some Year 8 – 12 students may be considering a change of subject or wish to discuss their subject selections further. If your child is considering this, please ask them to contact me as soon as possible so that we can meet, and I can support them through this process, if a change is seen as the best path forward. All subject changes should be finalised for Semester One by the end of Week 3, Friday 20 February.

I wish all our students and families the best for a positive year of learning ahead.