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In Touch @ St Aidan's
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Curriculum News

Kim O'Kane | Instructional Specialist

The Importance of Writing for Students

Numerous studies and academic publications highlight the value of written communication, emphasising that teaching students the importance of writing can lead to greater academic engagement and long-term success.

 

Writing is a foundational skill that students develop throughout their educational journey. It empowers them to communicate their ideas, express opinions, demonstrate understanding, and unleash creativity. Writing also fosters collaboration, sharpens critical thinking, and boosts self-confidence.

 

The Potential Benefits of Writing

Here are some listed benefits of writing for students:

  1. Ability To Explain Yourself. Writing is an effective way to educate, inform, and engage students, encouraging them to communicate their thoughts and ideas.

  2. Improve Communication Skills.  Writing channels our knowledge and thoughts, enabling students to express ideas clearly and effectively to others.

  3. Improves Memory and Retention. When students associate the content with writing about it, it’s very likely that they will remember and understand the content. 

  4. Creativity and Self Expression. Writing helps students explore their imagination and put that imagination into their creative writing.

  5. Enhance Literacy. Regular writing practice enhances reading capabilities, enriches vocabulary, and strengthens grammar.

GERRIC STUDENT PROGRAMS 2026

Unlock creativity. Spark curiosity. Connect with peers. 

The school-holiday programs at UNSW are designed for gifted and talented students (top 10% of their age group) in Years 3–10.  

 

Over three inspiring days, students: 

  • Dive into stimulating, hands-on topics 

  • Learn from passionate educators and experts 

  • Connect with like-minded peers who share their interests

 

Get Ready for General Program application  

  • Registration Open: 9:00am, Monday 29 September 2025 

  • Final Confirmations: 5:00pm, 21 November 2025  

 

Steps to Register

1. Prepare Your Documents 

  • Check your child meets the Academic Entry Criteria. 

  • If unsure, contact us at gerric@unsw.edu.au – we’re here to help. 

  • Required documents include: 

    • Academic Entry Criteria: 1 document from Category A, or 2 from Category B 

    • Medical or Allergy Plan (if relevant) 

    • Emergency contact information (parent/guardian details) 

    • Learning needs or support requirements 

    • Accessibility requirements (if applicable)  

2. Choose Your Workshop 

  • Select a workshop that matches your child’s 2026 school year level. 

  • Example: A student entering Year 3 in 2026 may register for a Year 3–4 workshop. 

  • Unsure? Contact us before registering – we’re happy to guide you.  

3. Complete Payment 

  • Provide payment details to secure your child’s place. 

  • You’ll first receive a payment confirmation email. 

  • Once eligibility is checked, you’ll receive a final enrolment confirmation and program access.

 

How The Programs Are Designed

  • Tailored for bright, curious children in Years 3–10. 

  • Workshops are set two years above school level, so your child is stretched and inspired. 

  • Taught by experienced teachers (Years 3–6) and specialist experts (Years 7–10). 

  • Cover exciting topics from science and technology to the arts and creative writing. 

  • Designed to build confidence, curiosity, and friendships with like-minded peers. 

  • Extra opportunities include parent information sessions and behind-the-scenes tours of UNSW labs. 

 

With you in Faith and Education,

 

Mrs Kim O'Kane

Instructional Specialist