Message from our Campus Principal

Welcome back to Term 2.  I trust everyone took advantage of the fabulous weather during the holidays and was able to relax and recharge, ready for all the opportunities and activities on offer this term.

NAPLAN 

During Weeks 3 and 4, all students in Years 7 and 9 participate in the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) tests. This year the test will be online for all students.  Last term we provided an opportunity for all students to practise the online test

The NAPLAN tests the sorts of skills that are essential for every child to progress through school and life, such as reading, writing, spelling, grammar, and numeracy. 

NAPLAN is only one data set that our college uses to determine a student’s progress and to inform programs we will put in place to meet students’ needs. Other data sets used include teacher judgements and more individualised tests such as ACER reading and numeracy testing.

It is important for all students to do their best on these tests so that the information collected is accurate.

Students can often be stressed by these sorts of tests however many measures will be put in place to reduce the pressure on students. These include building literacy and numeracy skills, ensuring the test environment is comfortable, and developing test-taking skills.

How can you support your child through NAPLAN week? 

Encourage your child to attend every day during the NAPLAN weeks. Students absent on a given day will have to do the tests later anyway. 

Encourage your child to give the NAPLAN tests their absolute best shot. 

Help your child prepare for NAPLAN by reassuring them that NAPLAN tests are just one part of their school program. The use of services by coaching providers is not recommended. 

Withdrawal from NAPLAN 

Students may be withdrawn from NAPLAN by their parent or carer. This is a matter for consideration by parents and carers in consultation with the principal. If, after consultation, you decide to withdraw your child, you must sign a Student Withdrawal form. If you have a reason to consider withdrawing your child from NAPLAN, please make an appointment with me to discuss this matter, and to complete the formal notification form. 

Blue Edge

This term we have 16 students, comprised of five Year 7, five Year 8 and six Year 9 students, participating in the Blue EDGE (Educate, Develop, Grow, Empower) program. The program is run by Blue Light Victoria in partnership with Victoria Police. It focuses on fitness, team building, personal growth and development, and positive connections to community. 

The first sessions started last week, on Tuesday and Thursday, and all students actively participated. They had a fitness session followed by an egg and bacon roll, muffins and juice for breakfast while participating in a team building activity. 

Tarna Flake

Anzac Day

Our cross Campus student representatives at ANZAC Day march in Yinnar