Wellbeing - Middle School

Teachers are human too

Last week, I had the pleasure of being part of my first Book Week Parade in Years 5 and 6. I am not one to usually dress up for character events, but I am glad it got me out of my comfort zone. Seeing students dress up as characters and having these informal conversations was pivotal in getting to know them in a different context, rather than the usual four walls of a classroom. Seeing so many of our staff getting dressed up allows our boys to connect with their teachers on a deeper level. 

So, with that said, there are so many benefits of showing students that their teachers are also human:

1. Building trust - it can foster a sense of trust and connection with students. Students are more likely to open up and engage in meaningful discussions when they see their teacher is genuine and relatable.
    
2. Enhanced learning environment: an open and inclusive environment can increase student participation and a more inclusive atmosphere. Students may feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas when they know their teacher values their emotions/experiences.
    
3. Empathy and understanding: by sharing personal experiences and also showing the human side to their personalities, it can create empathy and understanding towards students. This creates a more compassionate and understanding community.

Your sons are clever. They know what a genuine relationship looks like. Our boys know that our staff care, and they see the staff genuinely wanting them to succeed. And that’s what days like the Book Parade event really proves to me. 

Alexandros Sinadinos

Director of Middle School

Year 5 Grandparents Day 2024

Last Friday were joined by grandparents of the Year 5 students. The boys were beaming with pride as they sat with their loved ones at Mass and escorted them safely around the College. 

After Mass there was a break to sit with a 'cuppa' and morning tea in the sunshine at the Scientia Plaza before heading up to visit the classrooms of their grandsons. It was lovely to see the bond between the boys and their grandparents, both proudly looking after each other.

Thank you to all grandparents for the pivotal role that you play in the lives of your grandsons.

Books for Papua New Guinea 

Two weeks ago, I put a call out to families from Years 5 and 6 to support a school in Papua New Guinea that St Patrick's College is assisting. The senior TAS department have been building desks for the school, but books were needed to stock their Primary library.  

I was blown away by the quick and generous response of so many to this cause. There were small bags up to multiple boxes of books donated. These have been packed up and are being shipped out this week. Thank you to all. 

Stephen Cooper

Year 5 Coordinator