Principal Report

As we find ourselves in the midst of the current assessment period, it is a prime opportunity to reflect on the importance of dedication and hard work. At our school, we hold the motto "Strive for the Highest" close to our hearts, and it is during times like these that it's significance truly resonates.

Assessments are not merely a measure of knowledge but a reflection of our commitment to excellence and our willingness to push our limits. They provide a chance to showcase the understanding and skills that have been developed over the term. To achieve our best, it is essential to adopt effective study routines that can maximise our potential and outcomes.

Here are some key strategies to enhance your study routine:

1. Create a Study Schedule: Plan your study time wisely. Allocate specific time slots for each subject, ensuring you cover all areas without cramming at the last minute.

2. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your study material into manageable sections. Setting small, achievable goals can help maintain motivation and track progress.

3. Take Regular Breaks: Studying for long periods without breaks can lead to burnout. Short, frequent breaks can help refresh your mind and improve concentration.

4. Practice Past Papers: Familiarise yourself with the format and types of questions that may be asked. Practising past papers can help build confidence and improve time management.

5. Stay Healthy: A healthy mind resides in a healthy body. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and engage in regular physical activity.

6. Seek Help When Needed: Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from teachers, peers, or family members if you encounter difficulties. Collaboration and discussion can often provide new insights and understanding.

Our school's motto, "Strive for the Highest," is a reminder that excellence is not an act but a habit. By consistently applying ourselves and adhering to a disciplined study routine, we can achieve remarkable results. Let us all take this motto to heart and put forth our best effort during this assessment period.

Year 9 Geelong Tertiary Futures Program

Over the past week, our Year 9 cohort has been visiting sites at The Gordon, one of Victoria's leading TAFE institutes. These visits have been instrumental in expanding our students' understanding of the diverse tertiary education options available to them. The hands-on experiences and exposure to different career pathways have sparked a sense of excitement and curiosity about their futures.

During their visits, students engaged with industry professionals and educators, gaining firsthand insights into fields such as health, engineering, information technology, and creative arts. They witnessed the practical applications of their classroom learning, explored state-of-the-art facilities, and learned about the pathways that can lead to fulfilling and successful careers.

Here are some highlights from the program:

1. Interactive Workshops: Students participated in interactive workshops where they could engage in various activities related to different fields, from designing projects in engineering to exploring healthcare practices. These hands-on experiences were both educational and enjoyable.

2. Career Pathway Discussions: Industry experts shared their career journeys, providing students with a realistic view of the opportunities and challenges within various fields. These discussions helped students understand the steps required to pursue these careers, including further education and training.

3. Site Tours: Guided tours of The Gordon's facilities allowed students to see the latest technology and equipment used in modern professions. These tours highlighted the importance of staying current with industry advancements and the value of continuous learning.

4. Q&A Sessions: Students engaged in Q&A sessions with professionals, asking insightful questions about career prospects, necessary skills, and future trends in various industries. These sessions were incredibly valuable in helping students make informed decisions about their future pathways.

Our participation in the Geelong Tertiary Futures Program aligns perfectly with our school’s commitment to providing diverse and enriching learning experiences. It reinforces our belief in the importance of exploring all possible pathways to success, whether through academic or vocational education.

We are excited to see how these experiences will shape our students' aspirations and inform their future choices. Programs like these are pivotal in helping our students build a foundation for success in whatever path they choose to pursue.

Assessment & Reporting Curriculum Day

Students will not be at school on Tuesday 18th June, as staff have a designated assessment & reporting day. Students who are completing a Unit 3-4 VCE subject (including VM students) are required at school to complete the General Achievement Test (GAT). Families will receive a copy of their children’s report on the last day of term. This will be posted electronically via the COMPASS Portal.

Year 9 Strive Camp

Coming up in Week 10 our Year 9 students head off to Lady Northcote Discovery Camp for our annual Year 9 Strive Camp. This camp offers our students a great opportunity to explore their strengths and build a platform for their movement into the senior school. Thanks to all those staff for volunteering to make this opportunity available to our students.

Week B	Term 2
Monday 10th June	Kings Birthday - Public Holiday
Tuesday 11th June	Form Assemblies
Wednesday 12th June
Thursday 13th June	Year 10 Immunisations
Friday 14th June
Week A
Monday 17th June
Tuesday 18th June	2024 GAT for VCE Student free day for non VCE students
Wednesday 19th June	Year 9 Strive Camp
Thursday 20th June	Year 9 Strive Camp
Friday 21st June	Year 9 Strive Camp

The Belmont News

Strive for the highest

Issue 8 7th June 2024