School of Leadership
News from the School of Leadership
As Term 2 rapidly draws to a close, it is worth pausing to reflect on the past nine weeks which have been marked by many achievements, both big and small, yet all impactful for those experiencing them. Each day, teachers in the School of Leadership are lucky enough to witness our students learning, training, rehearsing, persevering all in efforts to improve their performance and to achieve their goals.
Recently, I was recommended a book to read entitled “Atomic Habits,” the premise of which is that improvement of performance is not so much about being 50% or 100% better but rather, it is the slight, incremental improvements - the 1%, that make the greatest difference. James Clear, the author contends that the 1% Rule is not merely a reference to the fact that small differences accumulate into significant advantages, but also to the idea that those who work 1% harder, train 1% longer, read 1% more, etc… are more likely to be successful in their endeavours.
What stood out to me about this theory of action is the importance placed on habits and rituals. Indeed, Clear maintains that the attention to and repetition of the “little things” are critical in ensuring the achievement of “bigger” things. To this end, teachers and leaders in the School of Leadership have been focussing on clarity of expectation around these little things, namely, attendance, arrival time to school, wearing of the uniform, effort and participation in class, respect for themselves, others and the environment. The intention is for these 1 percenters to accumulate and the habits developed translate into student growth and agency.
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Wishing all families and restful break.
Our teachers look forward to hearing the students’ holiday stories upon their return to school on Tuesday 19 July.
Mrs Kate Kelly - Head of School of Leadership
Term 2 has seen our St.Luke’s students engage in many learning experiences and opportunities beyond the bounds of the classroom through sport, debating, excursions and incursions. We look forward to many more chances for our students to participate in purposeful learning as we move into Semester 2. A highlight for me this term was seeing Year 8 students present their My Future Self expo to parents, peers, teachers and visitors. The confidence, organisation and passion was very obvious when I travelled through the Year 8 classroom spaces.
We wish all students and their families a restful holiday. We look forward to commencing semester 2 with fresh learning goals. A reminder that students are still to be wearing full winter uniform in Term 3.
Mrs Josephine Camilleri - Acting Assistant Principal
Stage 3 Stories…
First Aid Training
Our Stage 3 students, as part of their PDHPE unit for Term 2, have been learning how to save a person's life in an emergency. They have been completing first aid and CPR training with the company Reviva. Check out the style of their CPR technique performed along to the song “Baby Shark!"
Fire Safety Incursion
Aarna Stage 3 Malala - St Luke’s conducted a firefighters incursion for stage 3 students to ask questions that will help them to answer their geography driving question.The session was so informative that it will help students to complete the given task which was related to bushfires.Students also raised questions about different topics that will help to answers other self designed questions related to fire fighters.As an example what are some safe techniques to deal with fire and many more! On behalf of my class I would like to thank my school for arranging this incursion and also thanks to our front line workers who took time to visit us and make us aware how valuable their contribution is to keep society safe and how we can support them by taking measures to prevent nature from bushfires.
Chimdi Stage 3 Malala - Thank you for coming to visit Stage 3. All of the information that you told us and all of the questions that you answered helped us to better understand bushfires, how dangerous they are and what we can do to be safe around them. This helps with our Self driving questions. Our geography driving question this term is “why have humans made changes to the natural environment and how have these impacted humans and the environment”. With all of this information you have told us we are now a step closer to answering and explaining our self driving questions and geography driving question.
Tara Stage 3 Malala - From the visit of the firefighters from FRNSW I have learnt a lot of new information. One of the things I have learned is that a firefighter's job is not only to put out fires but to also do some other things such as rescuing animals from the area of fire. This will help me do my geography project as the task is to make a driving question and answer it. My driving question is how do you prepare for a bushfire efficiently? The visit of the firefighters will help me answer this question as they gave me some information on bushfires like how fast they spread or when they occur.
Soccer Gala Day
On Wednesday the 22nd of June, 13 Stage 3 girls participated in the annual Stage 3 girls soccer gala day. Our day consisted of 8 games in total. The stage 3 girls used their teamwork skills to work together in every game and even created a team chant! Overall, it was a great day in the sun with the main goal of the day to HAVE FUN!
STEM IN STAGE 3
At St Luke’s Catholic College, we are encouraged to cultivate student agency when it comes to learning. In Term 2, Jo Kirby, Brad Ptolemy and myself, used this strategy with a group of sixteen Stage 3 students. We met this group of curious learners in the Maker Space each week for 90 minutes.
Individual students and groups focused on different aspects for their STEM project. Some of the groups looked at different materials that can be used in the garden, one group incorporated different levels of moisture, whilst others included their research information in terms of wind and sunshine and how this will impact our rooftop garden.They also made connections with scientific report writing, accurate measurement and data collection and using technology to support their project.
At this stage we introduced the microcontroller kookaberry to them. They explored the kookaberry and started to consider:
- Which garden functions can the kookaberry support?
- What data do we need to acquire with reference to our rooftop garden
This process was effective because it was student driven yet aligned to the Science and Technology syllabus outcomes. Given the right framework, structure and resources, students are capable of driving their own learning and can self/peer assess using a specific criteria. As a teacher, I saw the impact and success of student agency as students set a goal to design the rooftop garden, reflected on their own learning and then acted responsibly to deliver the project; meeting the success criteria and timeframe.
Mrs Ashu Aggarwal - Pedagogy Coach/Stage 3 Coordinator
Student Reflections on STEM in Stage 3:
I have been really enjoying STEM because this whole project has been about some S3 students coming together and having this problem shot at us which we have to solve by using science, engineering, technology and maths, also this whole project has been based on the relate pillar which tells us to negotiate and resolve conflict, understand how relationships and collaboratively communicate effectively. I want to thank Mrs Aggarwal, Mrs Kirby, Mr Ptolemy, and all the others who have been helping us with the STEM project. Karman Singh Stage 3 Riley
The thing I liked about STEM was coding on kookaberry. You get to not only design a code but get to see what happens when you use the code. Another thing I like about STEM is that we worked with plants, and made experiments. It is fun to do the experiments with my friends. Another thing I liked was how we got to make a 3D model and get to maybe see it 3D printed. The final thing I liked was that we get to set up, plant and keep track of all our plants. One thing I liked was that I and my partner were the only ones that got the mint plant. All those things are fun activities I like, and they are very fun. Nikas Danylevych Stage 3
This Term during Stem, I've begun to immerse myself deeper into research, collaboration and organisation, which are some of the key aspects of this program. I've slowly been learning about the different technologies out there, different plants and their special needs and more! My knowledge from the beginning of this term has expanded and different connections and relationships have formed. I've truly enjoyed the interesting research when I discovered new things and the excitement when we were able to build our product. In this program I've learnt more about Stem in general and a little more about myself as a learner here at St Lukes. I really can't wait to learn more and complete my final product in order to guide and help others in the term to come. Kendra Tabaranza Stage 3
In this wonderful term in STEM I have begun to dig deeper into science and technology while applying my prior knowledge of mathematics. One of the greatest things I have learned from STEM is how to handle a Kookaberry and what it is used for. A Kookaberry is a microcontroller which is basically a computer but it is shrunken down and has some restrictions unlike a computer. The way to make a Kookaberry work is to code it. The STEM Enrichment group has taught me all sorts of things from working collaboratively to understanding myself as a learner. STEM teaches me a lot of things but while I am learning I also have the chance to have some fun and do some hands-on learning. An example of hands-on learning is when the STEM group planted some herbs with a partner with only one variable to see whose plants thrived better. Overall the STEM Enrichment group is very fun to be in and has a good balance of work and fun. Tara Premshankar Stage 3
In the past 2 terms a group of 16 selected students have been working on a project that was launched by Mr.Miller, where we had to use our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) skills. Based on my experience this was a great opportunity to learn real world skills, especially for people who want to pursue their career in engineering, technology and architecture. It was also a great time to dive into robotics and block coding. I believe these are the fields where the future is heading. During this program Mr.Miller came up with a fun and exciting project that combines technology and agriculture, from my prior knowledge this is called Agri-Tech. In the project we worked together to design a rooftop garden that is automated to produce fresh produce, for the new and upcoming St.Lukes cafe, that will be run by senior students to teach them real world skills about becoming an entrepreneur and how to deal with pressure to serve real unknown people. I hope together with what we are learning we can unpack the mysteries of space and multi-planetary colonisation with the help of rocket science (Something like what SpaceX and NASA are doing). Kiaan Sharma Stage 3 Freemen
STEM has helped me to think over my work and reflect on what I have done. It is really helpful if you want to open up and broaden your mind. The activities that were provided allowed me to show and explain with detail about the task. Overall I really think that the effort paid off. I have learnt more about how to reflect while having fun enjoying the task with friends. Katelina Shah Stage 3.
Peer Companions
On Monday we had our third session for the term of our Peer Companion program. The focus of this session was a gallery walk to look closely at the ideas Year 5 students have about what respect looks like in the SOL. It was so impressive to see the amount of knowledge students have on this topic. It was affirming for students to walk around and see the many and varied suggestions that all focused on the positives of what respect looks like, feels like and sounds like.
As always, the Year 8 Peer Companions and the Year 5 students worked extremely well together and it is lovely to see the connection between our eldest and youngest SOL students. Games are always played to help build a rapport within the groups. Year 5 students then brainstormed what they would like to focus on in Term 3 that will help them to transition into the SOL.
Ms Melinda Bowd - Wellbeing Leader
From Year 7…
Lifted Liturgy
Shine Pilot Program - Year 7
Our Shine program is well underway and the girls who are participating in the pilot program have embraced the opportunity to focus on being the very best version of themselves. So far we have spent a lot of time getting to know each other and building a sense of connection and trust within the group. Key areas we have focused on are - Potential, Strengths and Resilience. The girls have focused on the ways they ‘shine’ and they have shared these with each other. Sessions typically include an icebreaker, input on the session topic, journaling, sharing ideas with each other and completing some feedback at the end of the session.
I have been so impressed by the girls and their uptake of the program and all it involves. It is very exciting to think we will get the chance for all our Year 7 girls to participate in the future! We are also exploring the best way to provide the boys with a similar program to meet their wellbeing needs.
Ms Melinda Bowd - Wellbeing Leader
Shine from a student’s perspective (Joelle Shah and Milly Liu)
What is the Shine program about?
The Shine program is about helping us to find the right path, how to manage our mental health. We learn to cope with things that can happen no matter how big or small. There will always be something that can dull our lives, and Shine helps us to overcome those challenges.
The Shine Program is about getting to know ourselves and others better while learning how to make ourselves shine. We also learn what dims our light (brings us down) and what lets us shine.
What have we learnt so far?
In Shine we have learnt about potential, what it actually means, how we have achieved our full potential. In one of the lessons we also learned how to start conversations with others, and we also had to truly understand how we can shine.
In the Shine program we got to know each other well as we have done cooperative activities, we also have done JustDance, which mostly everyone likes to participate in. We have also done journaling, writing our goals and discussions as to what makes us shine.
What have we gained?
In shine we gained what potential means, and how we can achieve our potential. I asked question to Ms Bowd as part of feedback like what if we don’t know what our full potential is, so Ms Bowd is helping us girls to find out what our real potential is as one of the girls asked that question. We have also gained how to start conversations with other who we have never talked to before.
We have gained the understanding of what makes us shine and what dulls our light. We also gained the definition of what potential is and how we can find our potential. We have also done JustDance.
Representative Soccer - Year 7
Representative sport from a student’s perspective: (Adriana Salama)
How often have you played in rep sport this term?
This term we have only played two games but tomorrow which is on the 23rd of June we will have our third game. We lost 11-0 but I hope this time we can be a bit better.
Describe your first and most recent experience.
Our first game we were so excited and ready to play the whole time at school we couldn’t wait to go. Every second we checked the time to see if it was time to go. When we hopped off the bus we could not help but squeal with delight because of how excited we were. During our most recent game, we took on the feedback all the teachers gave us which made us perform better as a team. We can see the difference from our first game to our most recent due to the fact we developed and took on the great feedback.
What did you learn about yourself and the team?
We learnt that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses and we have to work as a team together so that we can help people with their weaknesses and use our strengths together to be a better team. I think as a team we need to have a lot of communication and collaboration skills. With each game, we have improved. We have learnt work as a team and support each other on and off the field.
What do you look forward to for your next game?
We’re looking forward to using our feedback from last time to make our next game an even better one.We are excited to play and meet new people and new schools. I’m particularly looking forward to being able to run and work as a team and build our skills.
What are you grateful for?
I'm thankful to be able to have this wonderful opportunity to represent St Luke's as it is a wonderful school. I would love to thank Miss Paz for being there for us and helping us to get through it even when we have not won. Miss Paz always has a wonderful word to say about how well we played and she also always has some feedback to help us improve on our skill and our ability to work as a team. I’m thankful for Miss Villarosa for being at our first game and being there to cheer for the St Luke’s girls and always having a smile on her face. I’m thankful Miss Villarosa always has a smile on her face which made me and the girls smile as well.
Year 7 Females Representative Sport Team, 2022
Year 7 Males Representative Sport Team, 2022
Upcoming excursion
A reminder that the Year 7 Geography excursion is taking place next week on Tuesday the 28th June. A reminder that students will be visiting the Sydney Harbour National Park.
Students will need to have the following:
- Full sports uniform
- Recess, lunch and water bottle
- Pen and notepad or exercise book
- Sunscreen and hat
Rolls will be marked in the Marketplace at 8.20am as the buses will leave promptly after. Please ensure all students are on time.
From Year 8…
My Future Self Expo
On Tuesday 21st June, the Year 8 students held the inaugural My Future Self expo. The students enthusiastically presented their strengths, interests, motivations, career clusters and one possible job they were interested in for the future. This opportunity aimed to broaden their mindset on the changing nature of the workforce for the future. Adults who visited the expo made comments about the uplifting nature of the expo to see how they would be making a difference to our world in the future. The students went to extraordinary lengths to represent themselves and their learning. They were well-prepared, articulate and passionate. It was wonderful to see so many students rise to the occasion, present so confidently and feel so empowered as to own their own future.
Year 8 Mentor Groups
The year 8 students have been interacting and engaging in various opportunities to connect in mentor groups over the last few sessions. Mentor teachers have been creating opportunities for students to build meaningful connections with their peers and their mentor teachers. We thank the mentor teachers for their efforts and encourage the Year 8s to continue their engagement in these sessions.
Year 8 Student Led Conferences
Thanks to all parents who attended the student-led conferences. It was a great opportunity to celebrate the proud moments of our students’ journeys and to engage in what learning that they are conducting in the classroom and beyond.
Year 7 and 8 Year Meetings
Year 7 and Year 8 have had year meetings this week. Some key messages and reminders included:
- Respect→ Students need to be conducting themselves with respect at all times throughout the day and in all their interactions.
- Winter uniform → Students need to ensure they are in full school uniform for the rest of this week and next term.
- Learning hub → Monday and Tuesday mornings, the hub is open from 8am-8:25am for Year 7 and 8 students to engage in their flipped learning or consolidation help if needed.
Debating
The Year 7 and 8 Debaters of St Luke’s have competed ferociously this season. With the current competition drawing to a close, the debaters are to be congratulated on their tenacity in engaging in this oratory competition with the full dedication and enthusiasm. Whilst training is completed for this term, we hope to return to training early next term to again continue our vigour for the sport!
Congratulations!
Super talented Year 5 student Elijah C has been travelling throughout Asia and the Middle East performing in his lead role of Young Simba in Disney’s The Lion King. What a fabulous opportunity - we can’t wait to enjoy an up close cameo performance when Elijah returns - hopefully before Christmas!
Coding Club - Years 7 and 8
Our Coding Club has powered on through the term. The game world is built, our playable character can run and jump and now that we’ve added gravity, he can fall too! In the last couple of weeks we’ve implemented animation and collision-detection so that he doesn’t run backwards and can’t run through walls.
Students are beginning to recognise coding patterns and structures which is opening their minds to variation and experimentation. With experimentation comes an increase in bugs and students are increasingly being challenged to resolve these independently. All the while, they're drawing upon and extending their knowledge of computer graphics, programming and maths. For our last session of the term, students will vote on which feature we’ll add.
Mr Brad Ptolemy - New Technologies Officer
That's our main character, not me!