SUBJECT SELECTION

We are approaching a critical and exciting part of the year for our Year 7 to 11 students as they select their subjects for 2021, particularly our Year 8 students who are encountering our VO subject selection process which allows students the unique opportunity to shape their own learning and education. We also think about our Year 12 students who are working hard on finishing their final year of secondary schooling in these times where uncertainty has become the new norm. 

Despite this uncertainty, our teachers have reflected on their recent experiences with remote teaching during Term 2 and found positive aspects to incorporate into the school learning environment. Below is a summary of potential positives to emerge from remote learning.

• Flipped learning (especially at the senior levels).
• Teaching students to be more independent learners.
• Online Learning for students when they are not in the classroom.
• Teachers teaching via Zoom into different classrooms.
• Use of Google classroom to complement SIMON Learning Areas.
• Video feedback to students.
• Meetings via Zoom (with colleagues/experts/parents).
• Less content, more depth in learning.
• Spending more time celebrating success.
• Integrating a variation of platforms in our teaching (Kahoot, Google Suite, Screencastify, Quizlet etc.).
• Setting up networks between schools to build connections between students/staff or offer less popular subjects.
• Networking and collaboration.
• Professional learning on technology and Learning and Teaching.

As students select their subjects for 2021 I remind students to choose subjects based on passion and interest, do not try to study subjects based on expectations of others. 

Choose what you know will give you a sense of satisfaction and achievement. Use the resources on the college website and speak to or email your teachers for advice. Parents/caregivers can also contact the Homeroom/PCG teacher or Learning Area Leaders if they have questions. For any student considering acceleration, please watch the video on the webpage and have a discussion with someone who knows your academic strengths.

2020 continues to be a time of change and uncertainty but the constant will be the teachers who go above and beyond to provide the best education possible for our students, supportive parents/caregivers who work with the college and our community of engaged students who make the college the wonderful place that it is. 

Mr Emmet Brown

Director of Learning and Teaching