"We can't" or "we won't"? 

There has been a recent State Government recommendation for a coordinated approach to the growing problem of school refusal. Often, instead of being referred to as “we won’t”, it is now often being referred to as “we can’t”. 

The inquiry, which received over 170 submissions from parents, educators, and experts, was aimed to shed light on the growing problem of students refusing to attend school and its consequences.

One of the most concerning findings of the inquiry was a decline in attendance rates among students from years 1 to 10. Between 2021 and 2022, the national attendance rate dropped from 90.9 percent to 86.5 percent. Even more worrisome was the fact that the proportion of full-time students with attendance equal to or greater than 90 percent decreased from 71.2 percent to 49.9 percent during that same year. These statistics are a stark reminder that many students are struggling to engage with their education. A crucial aspect highlighted in the inquiry was the differentiation between students who "can't" attend school and those who "won't" attend. "We can't" typically refers to students facing underlying challenges, such as anxiety, depression, bullying, or other mental health issues that prevent them from attending school. On the other hand, "we won't" often indicates the more traditionally recognised problem of students who are choosing not to attend without valid reasons.

Understanding whether a child is saying "we can't" or "we won't" is essential because it can significantly impact their academic success and well-being. Students facing genuine barriers to attendance require support and intervention to address the underlying issues affecting their education. On the other hand, students who "won't" attend school may need different strategies to re-engage them in learning and address any underlying motivation or behavioural issues.

What Can Parents Do?

As parents and guardians, you play a pivotal role in supporting your child's education. If you suspect that your child is experiencing school refusal, we encourage you to ensure open communication occurs between yourself, your young person as well as with our school. Seek external supports if needed. Please keep routines consistent, ensure expectations are understood and praise any successes, regardless how big or small. 

Remember, there is no "magic wand" and every young person is unique, so what works for one may not work for another. Patience and understanding are key during this challenging time.

We will continue to monitor developments related to school refusal and share resources and information that can assist you in supporting your child's education. Together, as a community, we can ensure that every young person has the opportunity to thrive in their learning journey.

Neurodiversity Day

The 7 to 9 Campus of Sandringham College celebrated Neurodiversity Day on the 23rd of August in support of our Neurodiverse members of the community.  Great fun was had by all with lunch time filled with games and live music. Thanks also to the brave staff who participated in the wet sponge activity. The SRC raised money more than $255 for the Amaze Organisation that encourages open conversation regarding Autism. Please refer to our Student Leadership page for a student report of the event. Well done, student leaders!

Sandringham College Ski Team

Congratulations to our students who recently represented Sandringham College by competing in the  Interschools Snowsport Championships. This annual competition provides an opportunity for Australian school students of all ages to experience competitive snowsports and to participate at either a recreational or competitive level. This year, Oscar Jackman (skiing) Max Newbury (skiing) and Ethan Sargeson (snowboarding) held the banner for Sandringham College up at Mount Buller and had an incredible time. Well done!

Debating

This year Sandringham College continued to enter teams in the Debating Association of Victoria’s Schools’ Competition, which is one of the largest debate competitions in existence. Two teams were entered at the D Grade (Years 7-9) level and one at B Grade (Year 11). All of these teams competed in the 5 rounds held between schools in the northern Bayside region. 

All of the members of Sandringham’s senior and junior debate squads improved in their debate skills this year: in their knowledge of how to organise the arguments for and against a topic as well as their confidence in public speaking. It was especially pleasing to find new members volunteering to join the Senior and Junior Campus’ debating squads during this year’s competition, and to be able to report that all teams have experienced victories in their competition against our neighbouring schools.

Experience, application and enthusiasm have proved especially useful for Sandringham’s most experienced debaters in the Year 9 Sandringham D1 team. At the end of Term 3, they are presently through to the State quarter-finals in their age division and remain undefeated this year - and proud to be representing our School at a high level in such a large competition. 

Special thankyou to Mr. Jonathan Sise for the time, effort and the incredible expertise that he has shared with our debating teams again this year.

WWRU

It was such a pleasure to work closely with the staff, cast and crew of We Will Rock You in the College Production throughout term two. The dedication and commitment that they have poured into this process was incredible. I would also like to acknowledge the invaluable opportunity for growth and self discovery that being part of this amazing opportunity brings. It takes a special kind of devotion to spend hours and hours within the walls of a rehearsal space, perfecting lines and mastering choreography, but they have all demonstrated not only amazing talent but also resilience in facing the challenges and rewards of this performance. Thank you to all, especially our amazing staff, for sharing your artistry and reminding us all of the power of passion, drive and dedication.

Good Luck Year 12

Best wishes to our amazing year 12 students as they embark on the final stage of their secondary education. Those final weeks of pushing forward to finish coursework, final assessments and prepare for trial and final exams will be filled with mixed emotions - excitement, anticipation, sometimes stress and maybe even relief! Please remember that you have been well prepared right from year 7 through to this moment and that you have the tools in place to succeed. Believe in yourself, stay calm and organised, communicate and try to celebrate the process. 

Vivienne McElwee

Campus Principal