Deputy Principals

PETER DICKINSON

Deputy Principal - Operations

Feedback on Remote Learning from the Students

At the start of this remote learning experience, we wanted our model to offer a degree of consistency and certainty at a time when there may not have been these in the wider world, whilst being prepared to make adjustments as the needs of the teachers and students changed. We could not just take the ‘at school model’ and duplicate it in a remote learning environment. As a School, we have been very proud of the way in which most students have accepted the challenges of remote learning.

In recognition of the importance of student voice, at the end of last week, we surveyed our students about their remote learning experiences. We were pleased that over 160 students responded. 

Following is table of the responses requiring a rating (% as responses):

When asked to provide suggestions for improvements, there were a variety of comments that we will be able to consider. Some of the more frequent responses, beyond technical issues included:

• Adjusting the balance across a 75 minute session between teacher instruction/talk and students working on tasks
• Unifying where students are requested to submit their work
• Drawing on different ways for teachers to interact with their classes

Most likely, some of the more thoughtful responses came when they were asked to consider a positive learning experience about themselves or in a lesson. Many students commented on their appreciation for the time spent at home with their families. They also commented on the importance of staying connected with their teachers, particularly via video and Teams. There were a number of students who expressed that this experience has challenged them to be more organised and disciplined in their approach to their schooling. Of course, being in the comfort and warmth of home, and not having to travel to and from school were mentioned too.

We thank the students who took the time to respond to our survey and the leadership teams will review the suggestions that have been made.

LANCE RYAN

Deputy Principal -

Teaching & Learning

As the new Deputy Principal for Teaching and Learning at Oakleigh Grammar, I would like to thank everyone for their very warm and supportive welcome. It is a great privilege to come to a school such as Oakleigh Grammar, where community and caring are more than just words, where students and staff are valued and where leadership and growth are encouraged.

As means of a personal introduction, I have extensive school leadership experience in a number of Independent schools, and most recently as the Principal of St John’s College. I have a great love of learning and am passionate about transforming the teaching and learning process to meet the needs of every student, both now and into the future.

Having come to this new role at a most unusual time, I am very impressed by the way each member of our Community, the staff, our parents and most importantly - our students have adopted and adapted to the challenges and rigours of remote learning.  The structure of the day, the quality of engagement and the work being done is of the highest standard.  Given the situation in which we find ourselves, we can all be proud of what we are achieving. It is not perfect. If it were, schools would not be necessary, but working together we are all ensuring each student is growing and achieving.

I look forward to serving the Oakleigh Grammar Community under the strong leadership of our Principal, Mr Mark Robertson and the inspired workings of our School Board.