Learning and Teaching

We have well and truly hit the ground running at College for 2025, and it has been exciting to see and feel the energy and enthusiasm of students and staff across Myrniong and Senior School for the year ahead. 

At our first Senior School assembly last week, I shared with the students the focus and keywords that I will work on this year and that I am asking them to bring to their learning, both in and out of the classroom. 

• Curiosity – to engage with new ideas and experiences, ask questions about themselves and others and deepen their understanding and engagement with the world around them.
• Risk – to try new things, with the full realisation that it may not work out the way they would like it to, but with the knowledge that they may learn new things and have new experiences along the way that they would otherwise miss out on.
• Compassion – for themselves - as students making the most of the learning opportunities they have, for others – ensuring their actions support others to learn and participate, and for our environment – the buildings, grounds and learning spaces we share.

The College has high expectations of our students, and we know it can take time to settle into new (and old) routines after the holiday break. Parents can help their children by ensuring they have a space for their materials and to study at home and sharing reminders about being ready to learn for each class. Arriving prepared eases anxiety and helps students focus on learning.

I encourage parents of Year 7 and 8 students to attend the Mentor Meet and Greet next Wednesday, February 12, between 4 and 6 pm. This is an informal drop-in session where you can meet our Middle Years Mentors and Heads of House in person. We strongly encourage that the students join you for the discussion. They will be available to share information and answer any key questions that you might have. 

For parents of students in Years 9 – 12, I encourage you to make an appointment to speak with your child/ren’s Mentor during our Mentor Meetings on Wednesday, 19 February. These meetings, which are held online, are a great way to start the year and set up a strong point of contact between families and the school. Again, we would like students to be a part of these meetings.

I look forward to seeing many Junior School families at the Junior School Parent Information Night next Tuesday, which is always an excellent opportunity for parents to meet staff and hear about the programs and experiences offered this year.

As we have now been back at school for over a week, some Year 8 – 12 students may be considering a change of subject or wish to discuss their subject selections further. If your child is considering this, please ask them to contact me so that we can meet, and I can support them through this process if a change is seen as the best path forward. All subject changes should be finalised for Semester One by the end of Week 4, Friday, 21 February. 

Senior School Learning Enhancement meetings:     

3 to 21 February

Valetta Bolton and Emily Hausler will meet with parents of Senior School students participating in the Learning Enhancement programs over the next three weeks. If your child receives support or adjustments at school, please look out for an email with a link to making a booking. These meetings ensure that teachers know how to best support your child in their learning.

Valetta Bolton

Head of Learning Enhancement