From Steve

Strengthening Teaching, Wellbeing & Transdisciplinary Learning at BPS

This past Monday morning, while students hopefully enjoyed a well-earned sleep-in, our teachers gathered for a purposeful day of professional learning. Fueled by tasty pastries, leftover Halloween treats, and Ula’s excellent coffee, staff engaged in deep reflection, collaborative planning, and targeted curriculum development.

The morning opened with a celebration of success. Teachers shared highlights from their Transdisciplinary Units of Study– from individual student breakthroughs to whole-class achievements. Stories of students making strong academic growth, demonstrating independence, and building confidence filled the room. Common themes included the impact of explicit teaching routines, students’ growing stamina in reading and writing, and the joy of seeing learners take pride in their achievements. It was a valuable moment to acknowledge the collective effort of students, staff, and families in making 2025 such a positive year of learning.

A second focus of the day was a deep dive into our Wellbeing Curriculum, led by Wellbeing Specialist Deb Barden and our Inclusion Specialist, Stephanie McGeorge. In 2026, each term will have a dedicated wellbeing theme:

• Term 1: Emotional Awareness & Management
• Term 2: Building Resilience
• Term 3: Relationships & Diversity

• Term 4: Collaboration

   

Targeted lessons on topics such as cyber safety, help-seeking, and self-regulation will help students develop emotional intelligence, resilience, empathy, and confidence. Research continues to show that wellbeing and academic achievement go hand-in-hand; at BPS, we are committed to nurturing both.

In addition, our Teaching & Learning Specialist Tatjana Linklater facilitated a workshop focused on strengthening transdisciplinary learning across the school. Through rich discussion and planning, teachers worked to deepen the links between science, geography, history, and civics in Prep to Year 6 units of study. This work ensures our students not only build strong disciplinary knowledge but also develop the ability to make meaningful connections across learning areas – a key aspect of the IB Primary Years Programme and an essential skill for future-ready learners.

We fully appreciate that Professional Learning days can be challenging for families juggling multiple commitments. Thank you for your support in making these opportunities possible. Time for staff to collaborate, reflect, and innovate ensures our students receive the very best learning experiences.

We look forward to bringing this learning to life in 2026 and remind families that our final Professional Learning day for the year will be held on Monday, 24 November 2025.