From the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers

Empowering Students Through Agency at OLHC

At Our Lady Help of Christians (OLHC), we believe that student agency - giving students a voice and choice in their learning and school environment—is a crucial part of their educational journey. When students have the opportunity to express their ideas, make decisions, and see the impact of their actions, they become more engaged and motivated learners. This approach not only enriches their learning experience but also builds essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.

Recently, our Year 3/4 students explored the concept of community and how individuals can make a difference within it. As part of their unit, they identified a need for additional play equipment in our playground and took the initiative to advocate for this change. The students wrote persuasive texts asking for a "gaga pit"—a form of dodgeball played in an octagonal pit where the goal is to strike opponents below the knees to eliminate them. It's a fun and inclusive game that encourages physical activity and friendly competition.

I had the privilege of reading each student's persuasive text, and I was truly impressed by the strength of their arguments. Their passion and well-reasoned points made a compelling case for the addition of this new equipment. Following the process of how change happens within communities, I took their proposal to the Parents and Friends of OLHC (PFOL) to request funding. I’m delighted to share that the PFOL agreed to fund the gaga pit, and I met with the Year 3/4 students this afternoon to give them the exciting news.

This gaga pit will be a legacy of our current Year 3/4 students, something they can be proud of even after they leave OLHC. However, their work isn’t done yet. As part of their inquiry unit, the students will now be responsible for determining the rules for playing in the pit, creating timetables for its use, and deciding on the best location within our school grounds. This ongoing involvement is an excellent example of how student agency plays a vital role in their learning and development.

Involving students in decisions that affect them not only empowers them but also reinforces the importance of their contributions. When students see that their voices are heard and valued, it fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their school community. At OLHC, we are committed to nurturing this sense of agency, as it is a key ingredient in preparing our students to be active, responsible, and capable members of society.

Volunteers Needed for Bunnings BBQ Fundraiser!

The PFOL has asked me to mention that they are in urgent need of parent volunteers to assist with the Bunnings BBQ on Saturday, 7th September, which is a substantial fundraiser for our school. We specifically need 2 more helpers for the 12:00 - 2:00 PM time slot and 3-4 people for the 2:00 - 4:30 PM slot. If you haven’t yet signed up on Operoo or if your circumstances have changed and you're now available, we would greatly appreciate your support.

Warm regards,

Rudy Vail

Principal

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We acknowledge the Wurundjeri people who are the traditional custodians of this land and pay respect to the elders past, present and emerging of the Kulin Nation.