From the Principal

Growth = Standards + Actions

Our theme of the year is growth = standards + actions.

Over the past three weeks, I have witnessed countless examples of student growth through actions.

There have been a few anecdotes from staff and students who attended the Year Ten Camp on the Blackwood River:

It was special to see students take on leadership roles. We haven't seen this at school. They were respectful, but most of all, there were extraordinary moments of deep care for those who were struggling.

The camp was really hard and we were not looking forward to it. 'Mr Irving, we bet you couldn't do it, walking 7km with the entirety of your equipment on your back!' Looking back after a few days, yes, it was challenging, but we did it and could do it again.'' 

Growth.

Speaking with a few students who attended the Leeuwin voyage said the following:

When we arrived in Fremantle, we did not want to go on the boat. It only dawned on us then that there was no way of getting off once it sailed, no phones and no connecting to home.

It was really hard, and we are exhausted, but we are so proud we did it, and we now think about challenges differently.

Growth.

Over the last four weeks, the annual Interhouse Swimming Carnivals have taken place. This year, something felt different. There was something palpable about the spirit of the students and their commitment.

I asked the Sports Captains what was different this year; was I right in the sense that something had changed? This is what they said:

Mr Irving, you are right, something has changed. Each person is showing up and swimming for their mates. They are not just swimming for themselves. There is a lot more buy-in, the vibe is awesome.

I asked the same question of the Acting Director of Sport, and this is what he said:

 Participation is up, there are more students here swimming and jumping in the pool for their House and their fellow students.

This was confirmed by the data, there was a 20% increase in participation across the Secondary School.

Growth.

Yesterday, the school hosted the second Rites of Passage event for Year Nine students and their families. Families completed a 90-minute walk and were given provocations to frame deep discussions between parent and child.

At the closing feedback session, parents shared some stories of their experences:

My child can talk. I receive more than the usual grunts and groans. We can have a real conversation now.

It was lovely to hear that my child actually appreciates things. You always hope they are grateful, but for them to speak it was really special.

Growth.

In Primary School, students have been working in small groups to explore specific mathematics concepts. We call this "Stretch and Challenge." This term, teachers have been working with students to address challenging misconceptions about place value. The "Ah-ha" moments are plentiful and the growth from these targeted sessions has meant students are achieving their milestones to progress forward. 

Growth.

I look forward to sharing more stories of growth throughout the year.

Go well.

Mr Mathew Irving | Principal