Pedagogy and Academic Leadership

Enhancing Academic Growth

This year, Loreto College Marryatville has introduced a new initiative, to highlight the importance of the academic pillar in our thriving SEAD (Social Emotional Academic Development) program. Each Wednesday, students engage in thirty minutes of focused academic development within their year groups, fostering collaboration and engagement. From improving foundational skills to exploring new topics and technologies, this initiative allows students to interact with different aspects of their learning. It is an exciting addition that aims to foster curiosity, deepen understanding, and encourage peer collaboration. This week, our students took part in their third workshop, engaging in a variety of activities tailored to their specific year levels.

Year 11 and Year 12 students participated in the first of a series of AI workshops, aimed at teaching critical skills for the responsible and ethical use of AI. This workshop engaged students in an open dialogue around generative AI technology, its applications, and its drawbacks, empowering students to navigate its challenges with integrity and awareness. Through case studies and real-world examples, students examined AI's environmental implications, social responsibility, and its influence on personal confidence and self-efficacy.

Our Year 10 students embarked on the beginning of their Wide Reading Initiative. This program encourages students to explore literature beyond their curriculum, fostering a love of reading and broadening their literary horizons. By engaging with a wide range of texts, Year 10 students develop their analytical skills and gain a greater understanding of different perspectives.

Year 7 and Year 9 students were immersed in NAPLAN Numeracy and Literacy workshops. These workshops provided an excellent opportunity to refine essential skills in both areas. Students tackled practice questions, engaged in targeted exercises, and received expert guidance to strengthen their understanding in preparation for the upcoming tests. The interactive nature of the workshops helped students feel more confident in their abilities, fostering a positive attitude toward their academic progress.

Meanwhile, Year 8 students delved into the thought-provoking history of our school chapel and heritage gallery, discovering the deep connection between Mary Ward's journey and the founding of the Loreto community. The session provided a unique opportunity to engage with the school's legacy, helping students understand the significance of these key landmarks. Through guided discussion, they developed a deeper appreciation for how history and culture influence the present, encouraging critical thinking and personal reflection.

As I look ahead to the coming weeks, I’m excited to see how these sessions will continue to support the academic growth of our students. These activities not only help prepare students for assessments, but also encourage them to develop essential skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom. This initiative reflects Loreto College Marryatville’s commitment to offering a dynamic and comprehensive education tailored to each student's needs. I also want to take this opportunity to thank all the teaching staff for their time, expertise, and unwavering support in making these sessions such a success. Their dedication is crucial in shaping rewarding experiences and successful outcomes for our students.

Mel Pedavoli

Assistant Principal Pedagogy and Academic Leadership