Principal's News
Dear Parents & Parishioners,
Aussie students shine in maths but face key challenges, global study finds
Australian students continue to perform strongly in mathematics globally but face critical areas needing attention, a new analysis of OECD data reveals.
The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) found local 15-year-olds scored above the OECD average, excelling particularly in interpreting statistical information. However, significant gaps emerged, with maths-anxious students performing almost four years behind peers with greater confidence.
Boys showed strength in mathematical reasoning and formulation, while girls excelled at data interpretation. Researchers say targeted interventions may be needed to address anxiety and problem-solving challenges, ensuring all students develop essential maths skills for future study and employment.
“Australian students’ strengths were found in ‘uncertainty and data’ and in ‘interpreting, applying and evaluating mathematical outcomes’,” Report co-author Lisa De Bortoli told The Educator.
“This means that our students can effectively perform tasks such as analysing graphs and tables to draw conclusions, evaluating probabilities in real-world contexts, using mathematical models to solve practical problems, and using critical thinking in mathematical reasoning.”
De Bortoli said this puts students in good stead to succeed in a rapidly evolving world where data and mathematical reasoning play a central role.
“There are other reasons to be optimistic, too. Both advantaged and disadvantaged students felt confident using computer-based mathematical tools, such as spreadsheets and programming software,” she said.
“Similarly, First Nations and non-First Nations students reported comparable levels of confidence in working with these systems.”
However, De Bortoli noted that there is still more work to be done.
“We need to ensure all students in this age group are proficient in the essential skills that can help them meet maths challenges they’re likely to encounter in everyday life.”
Source: The Educator
Sacrament of Reconciliation
On Tuesday evening we had a beautiful celebration where many Year 4 students participated in the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time. Fathers Sang, Hoang and Steve gently supported the students through this special sacrament of healing.
Thank you to our Year 4 teachers, Nick Byrne (RE Leader) and the Parish team who supported the students in preparation for the sacrament.
Mrs Josephine Harrison
Following a lifetime of dedication to Catholic education, Mrs Harrison - our Digital Technologies Leader - has finally decided to finish her time as an inspirational and knowledgeable educator, and amazing colleague.
Mrs Harrison began teaching in 1973. Following a career as classroom teacher, she eventually became Deputy Principal at St Peter’s Epping. She has been at OHR since 2005.
We will certainly miss Mrs Harrison's wisdom, trouble-shooting skills, humour and warm personality. Mrs Harrison will conclude her time at OHR at the end of this term prior to taking a good long stint of Long Service Leave.
We wish Josephine well for the future.
Working Bee
We had a beautiful morning, weatherwise, and a great number of families turn up to lend a hand during Sunday's Working Bee. Some of the jobs we ticked off on the list included: weeding and tidying up the Reflective Garden; pruning bushes in the staff car park; distributing 2.5m3 of new sand throughout the sandpit; removing old bushes near the soccer pitch; blowing and clearing pathways; tidying up the front of the property facing Mont Albert Rd; and blowing around the fixed play equipment and artificial turf.
As usual, we concluded the morning with a sausage sizzle and some refreshments.
Thanks to everyone who helped throughout the morning!
2025 House Sports Day & School Cross Country
To conclude the term we have our annual House Sports Day on Friday, 4 April. The students and parents always look forward to this event. For details, head to the PE News page where you can also find a link to the Order of Events.
Our School Cross Country will be held during the second week of Term 2 on Tuesday, 29 April. Further details can also be found on the PE News page.
Holy Week & Easter Schedule
In the lead up to Holy Week and Easter, please refer to the Education & Faith News page for the parish schedule of dates, times and locations.
Years 5 & 6 Parent Gathering - Tomorrow!
The gathering for parents who have children in Years 5 and 6 will be held at Esther and Cam Jackson's home tomorrow evening, Friday 28 March. An invitation was emailed to those families on Tuesday morning.
End of Term 1
Following the House Sports Carnival, the students will return to school where they will be dismissed at the earlier time of 1.00pm.
Our Holy Redeemer ANZAC Day Service
We are commemorating ANZAC Day at OHR on Thursday 24th April at 2.30pm. All are welcome, including grandparents and other family members. We are looking for some volunteers to assist with wreath making and participating on the day. Please see the Learning & Teaching News for more information.
Surrey Hills ANZAC DAY Dawn Service
Wishing everyone a great weekend,
Frank