Assistant Principal

 7 & 8 

Dear Parents,

It is great to be back and to be re-establishing our regular routine in Junior School following the Covid lockdown. We are very impressed with the resilience of students and pleased with their eagerness to re-join their friends at school in life and learning. Congratulations to all families in weathering this disruption. As our Principal has said, the courage and resilience on display really highlights our shared determination to overcome such disruption whenever it occurs, and to proceed with the learning program at hand. It really is such a pleasure to see the smiling faces each day, in spite of challenging circumstances.

A reminder that we must follow the protocols provided by the Department in observing the wearing of masks, distancing where possible and maintaining a high level of hygiene. Masks should be brought from home. While the college can provide some masks where absolutely necessary, the supply is not endless and students must take responsibility for bringing and caring for masks.

At year 8 we have commenced the Inquiry project in our learning. Inquiry encourages students to wonder and be curious in their discovery of the world and partner with teachers in developing lines of further inquiry. Teachers facilitate this process through guided questioning, research and goal-setting. Inquiry promotes student voice and agency, affirming them as the critical agents in the classroom. Our first sessions have been very successful with staff and students really enjoying the process. Congratulations to Claire Delaney and the Teaching and Learning team on this innovative work that will enhance engagement at year 8.

Year 7 Camp takes off this Wednesday. I will be attending the camp for the day on Thursday and look forward to sharing with the students in the beauty of the forest camp site. Camp is a great way for the students to socialise in this natural setting and to partake of the learning sessions and adventure activities. A diverse range of activities have been planned, and no doubt the students will sleep well upon their return on Friday.

Most students have had their school photos taken, with a few to go on the ‘catch up session’ on March 1st. I want to congratulate all students on their efficient and co-operative conduct that meant interruption to classes was minimised.

The first round of immunisations at the college will take place on March 10th and this will be for the year 7 students. I ask that families be sure to have returned the permission cards to the general office. These will be forwarded to the City of Whittlesea so that their health records can be updated. Our College strongly supports the immunisation program as a way of maintaining the health of our community.

Finally, I look forward to greeting all year 7 families at ‘Meet The Teacher’ at 5.30pm, 1st of March. Please bring the whole family if you wish. A bbq dinner will be served catering for all dietary needs. This is an opportunity to have valuable educational discussions in an informal environment and to discover the great ways in which your child has commenced secondary school.

Tim Cottrell