From the Principal

Thank you to the many families who attended either our Dedication Service last week or our Secondary Information Evening last night. Next week, we have our Primary Information Evening (Tuesday 20 February), followed by the Senior Secondary Evening the following week (Tuesday 27 February). These events are a valuable opportunity to meet some of the staff and to connect with other parents.

I want to acknowledge how well our students have settled into the new school year. It has been a delight to visit classes, to see the students engaged in learning. The first part of the year is about establishing routines and expectations. A phrase I often use is, ‘go slow to go fast.’ This means taking the time to develop skills and habits that will make a difference in the long term. As many people are aware, I swim regularly for fun and for fitness. An important part of each training session is the drill component. This is where we focus on a core element of a stroke. We aim to execute the skill accurately and, over time, we work to embed those skills so they become automatic at other times.

Teachers are doing something similar in establishing skills in learning how to learn and in the way they break down new learning into parts. As skills become more automated, there is more opportunity to apply these skills to new contexts. This especially helps students see how what they are learning is relevant and how it may be used.

Today, we enjoyed the Secondary school swimming carnival. Many of our students came ready in their team colours. Even if they were not planning to race, they were ready to lend their support to those who did. The program included a number of fun novelty events that brought a smile to everyone’s face. Thank you to Miss Keane, the staff team and the student leaders who made the day so successful.

Jodie Bennett

Principal