Assistant Principal's Report

ICAS (International Competition and Assessments for Schools)

This term students in Year 2-Year 6 were offered the opportunity to participate in the ICAS Assessments in English, Spelling, Writing, Science, Mathematics and Digital Technologies. We had almost 50 students from Whitehorse Primary School participate in one or more of these assessments which are designed to challenge students to problem solve and extend themselves academically. Participating students completed ICAS online and will receive their results and certificates shortly. Well done to all students who had a go, remembering that growth in learning is what is most important! 

I am Mindful 

Students who have been part of the I am Mindful program participated in their final session with Stephanie last week. In this session, students learnt more about diffusion strategies for ‘taking the power out of difficult thoughts’.Two of the strategies they practised included paired muscle relaxation and the use of kinetic sand as a mindfulness tool.  

Students were encouraged to view challenging thoughts like advertisements - they might pop up unexpectedly but it doesn’t mean we need to pay attention to all of these thoughts (like we wouldn’t to each ad we see!). Students were asked to consider “Is this thought helpful?” and to ‘turn down the volume’ when thoughts come in that are not helpful in the situation they are in. For example, a worry about transitioning to high school is not a helpful thought to have while trying to complete a maths assessment. They were then taught to use one of the I am Mindful strategies to connect back to the present moment and reduce their stress by focusing on their senses. 

All students are encouraged to talk to someone they trust when something is worrying them such as a parent, teacher or friend. It is a great idea for families to discuss this with their children to help them list people they can go to for support if needed. 

Curriculum Day 

Our Term 3 Curriculum Day was a great success. Our teachers and support staff participated in professional learning on Explicit Teaching, Positive Classroom Management Strategies, First Nations Education and Behaviour Support. A strength of our school is our collaborative approach where our staff work together to continually improve teaching and learning at Whitehorse Primary School. We are always working to create a positive environment for all in our school community. 

Happy spring, have a wonderful week

Megan Goldenberg

Acting Assistant Principal