Principal's Message - Week 6 - Term 2

In my nine years as principal of St Columba's, I have witnessed remarkable growth and evolution within our school community. Never have I worked with such a cohesive and committed staff, completely aligned pedagogically, in values, and beliefs about how children learn. This unity was exemplified in our collective engagement during our professional learning day, "Evidencing the Learning," held on April 26th.

The workshop on "Evidencing the Learning" was more than just a professional development day; it was a testament to our shared dedication to growth, innovation and understanding of assessment. Through an engaging workshop and reflective sessions, our staff delved into the principles of the IB curriculum, shared insights, and explored new pedagogical approaches. This workshop provided concrete strategies and tools for teachers to effectively monitor, document, measure, and report on learning to inform the learner, learning, and teaching, and the learning community throughout the learning process, whilst ensuring alignment with IB standards and fostering a deeper understanding of student progress.

By actively participating in this day, our staff demonstrated their dedication to lifelong learning and their readiness to embrace change for the betterment of our students' educational experiences. Moreover, for us as a staff, this workshop served as a catalyst for building a vibrant community of practice within our school. It fostered collaboration among staff members and promoted rich dialogue. Through meaningful interactions and shared experiences, we consolidated the strong bonds of mutual respect and a collective commitment to excellence. This sense of camaraderie and shared purpose continues well beyond the professional learning day, enriching our school culture and enhancing the teaching and learning environments for all.

In essence, this day epitomized the dedication of our staff to nurturing the next generation of global citizens. By embracing the principles of the IB framework and actively participating in this communal learning experience, we reaffirmed our commitment to supporting our students on their learning journey. As we strive to embody the learner profile and enhance our practice, not only do we elevate our own professional growth but we also work towards creating a culture of authenticity, collaboration, and continuous improvement that defines the essence of our school community.

In the coming week we are excited to invite you to our Literacy Open Learning Morning on Friday, May 24th. This occasion offers a unique opportunity for you to see our collaborative learning environments in action. You will be able to observe, engage and learn strategies to support your child's education at home. Your participation plays a crucial role in strengthening the partnership between home and school. We hope to see you there!

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