Teaching and Learning

Wellbeing for Achievement

We are entering that time of the year where some things become a little more difficult. Whilst I enjoy the cold weather, it makes it a little harder to spend time outdoors; particularly when wet, we tend to gravitate towards indoor spaces to keep warm. Coupled with shorter days and, in many cases, co-curricular commitments of many families. It is a busy time.

In schools, there is a compounding factor that makes the time difficult. Assessments are often due towards the end of semester - exams are just around the corner - and at St Bede’s, we commence Semester 2 classes on June 15. As well as the aforementioned challenges, the increasing pressure of academic performance can make us more vulnerable to illness and it can feel overwhelming. The shining light through all of this might just be that your football side is going well! Let’s hope, anyway.

Nevertheless, our experience tells us that - like most challenges - we’ll get through them and come out stronger on the other side. Importantly, getting through times like this build our resilience and provide great learning opportunities. Regardless of how we approach the winter months, the seasons repeat and this time next year we’ll be facing a similar challenge. So, as students of the College, what helps to get through this period?

The first is routine. Despite the busy-ness and challenges of the weather, having a daily process ensures that additional challenges, such as co-curricular or other commitments, assessment tasks, daily school life and social life, can be kept in balance. Planning for the days ahead becomes easier as the foundation is there; adjustments to a routine are far easier than building each day from scratch. Committing time to study, socialise, rest and sport are all parts of a fulfilling life. Balancing them in a routine is vital for success.

The second is sleep. On the back of the routine, ensuring organisation of demands means that students are able to prioritise and make time for things that matter. Sleep - for our physical and mental health as well as our learning - is foundational, with young people encouraged to get 8 hours plus each night. With many students involved in sport, this is an additional stress on the body. Providing time to recover through effective sleep habits is vital to perform at one’s best in many facets of life.

The third is diet. Eating consistently (yes, breakfast, lunch and dinner) with a good balance of healthy foods ensures that young people have energy to tackle the day as well as ensuring our immune system is effective at warding off illness. Wholesome foods may include fresh fruit, meat, vegetables, cereals, dairy and nuts and should constitute a significant part of the diet. Processed foods and those high in sugar, whilst ok in moderation, may not be as helpful for us when our bodies are under pressure.

We acknowledge that this is not exhaustive. Melbourne Storm Coach Craig Bellamy says the secret to his success over a long period is a commitment to doing the fundamentals well; managing the challenges of school and life in the coming months is no different. We encourage conversation and support to ensure that these elements of life are in place and, whilst recognising that sometimes it’s hard to stick to, the short- and long-term benefits are proven.

Subject Changes

On Monday 25 May, the SchoolData portal for students in Years 9 to 11 opened for subject change requests. This is the first time we have used the portal to manage the process and, so far, the indications are that it is working well. Instructions on how to request a change have been emailed to students. Students are advised to follow the instructions in that email in order to make a change.

Importantly, for parents and carers, all requests require approval. An email is automatically sent to parents / carers indicating the changes with a link to authorise or reject the request.

It is also worth noting that requests do not ensure a change of subject. There are limitations on student numbers in class and, in some cases, students are required to seek Careers Counselling at the College. Similarly, conversations with Learning Area Leaders and other staff will take place should a subject change be seen as unsuitable. There are a number of subjects that have been offered in years previous with the intention of preparing students by building their skills and knowledge. In these cases, it is unwise for the student to enrol, hence the need for a conversation.

Please ensure that you have had a conversation with your son and read the communication and instructions that have been sent to him. We are here to help should you have any questions. 

Brenden Mair

Deputy Principal - Teaching and Learning