Junior School News
Junior School News
This term we have put a greater emphasis on the development of study skills and self-help in the Junior School. Our newly-designed Connections program focuses on facilitating communication, connection, celebration and common understanding in processes and procedures at GEC. To date, we have covered topics relating to how to seek help if bullying occurs, homework and the use of planners and this week we tackle goal setting. We encourage parents and caregivers to continue these conversations at home with students as these key elements have a great impact on learning once mastered.
Ry Mathieson
Junior School Leader
Year 7 News
The Year 7s have had a very busy start to term 2 with open night, whole school assemblies, and starting the F.R.I.E.N.D.S program.
One afternoon last week, our students invited their primary school teachers to visit GEC for a tour and presentations from describing their high school experiences so far. A huge thank you to all the students who were involved as tour guides, and to those who made speeches or performed.
Students reported about the amazing things they have done so far this year, in the classroom and out of it. We heard about languages, sport, camp and were impressed by their musical performances.
Jake Sherman & Deborah Cordingley
Year 7 Coordinators
YEAR 8 CAMP @ The Summit – Unleashing Greatness!
We are super excited to announce a NEW Year 8 camp in 2021.
Monday 15th – Wednesday 17th November, 2021
The Summit camp is located at Trafalgar East, West Gippsland. The Summit camp has some of the most phenomenal, breathtaking and awesome activities in Australia. The instructors passionately provide inspiring and life changing experiences through a combination of meaningful programs and powerful activities that build self-worth, character, success and happiness.
Unique experiences found nowhere else include the Sky bridge, snake experience, Victoria’s biggest giant swing, nail walk, board break and Sky Window. Other adrenalin rushing activities include Cave challenge, Balance Beam Snowy River Challenge, Abseiling, Flying Fox, Leap of Faith, High Wire, Inflatable City and so much more.
The cost per student will be $375.00
Eligible families can use their CSEF (Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund) towards the cost of the camp.
Further details about the camp and the request for parent/guarding permission will be posted on XUNO early in term 3.
Kelli Lawson
Junior School Administration
Year 9 Corner
We have many items to report to all so please keep reading. Firstly reflecting on our last newsletter where we announced Lucas Nenke’s endeavours for the ‘World's Greatest Shave’. Lucas raised a whopping $838.00 for the Leukaemia foundation. A big, big well done to Lucas!
Secondly a huge congratulations to Seif El Shorbagy for his extra- curricular endeavours this year. Seif participated in the Victorian Athletics Championships in Javelin, Discus and Shot Put. Seif placed third in Javelin, 4th in Shot Put (with a PB) and 8th in Discus. Congratulations Seif!
The Junior School has been running its Connections program this term. So far, students have participated in activities focusing on: Bullying and Prevention, School’s Homework Policy and Effective use of Student's school planners with many more to come. All of these activities are run during class time and have been very successful. Students are understanding that they now have more responsibility and accountability for their learning at school!
Continuing on from the theme of learning…. NAPLAN is back! NAPLAN will be running from the 11th to the 13th of May and is compulsory for all Year 9 & 7 students. NAPLAN serves an important purpose. NAPLAN helps demonstrate literacy and numeracy growth in students and assists us to plan for differentiated and targeted pedagogy. Also, NAPLAN data is used when students wish to choose any elective subject at Year 10 and at VCE in Years 11 and 12. Also when teachers have to give recommendations for a student who wishes to study any subject ahead of their actual year level, this data is considered along with other information.
An important reminder to all Year 9s to keep your uniform looking immaculate :) This ensures that everyone's focus can be on learning in the classroom. PE uniform is only to be worn on PE days, no beanies, no nose piercings and no unnatural hair colour as per our uniform policy. Bags remain in lockers and are not to be taken to class. Keep all your belongings under lock and key at all times when at school.
Lastly, learning starts at 9am! Being early demonstrates a positive attitude to your education and ensures minimal disruptions to yours and others progress. According to DET, minimum attendance at school for any student up to Year 12 is 95%.
So, Get Organised
Get Focused
Get Involved!
Please look at the extracurricular activities via the link below. These are planned at school during lunch times and after school for students to showcase their talents and creative side. We need more and more students to join these fun activities to feel connected to their school community and get involved. Homework club is also running after school every Tuesday and Wednesday in the Library from 3:30pm to 4:30pm to provide extra support to our students
Lastly, Progress reports for Term 2 will be out in the coming weeks.
Sasha Byrnes & Parminder Kaur
Year 9 Coordinators