Deputy Principal

Welcome back to Term 2

I hope you have all had a wonderful and rested break over the Easter and School holidays and that you managed to spend some time at home or away with the ones you love.  The weather over the Easter break was certainly beautiful and allowed us to have one last splash of summertime.

In my role as Learning Diversity Leader, I am often asked many questions about the way in which learning is tailored to the needs of individuals.  In classrooms, our students are fortunate to have the teaching expertise of a range of teachers and are also supported by Learning Support Officers who spend time in classrooms working with different groups of children. 

Everyone learns at different paces and comes to school with different experiences and knowledge.  In classrooms, students are supported by being able to work with a differentiated curriculum where learning is adapted to the needs of the learner.  Learners may work independently, in pairs, in small groups, or as a whole class.

Differentiated Curriculum - Why differentiation?  

Sometimes learning is frustrating for children. Children learn many new concepts daily and for learners with learning challenges, this can be a frustrating experience. Teachers adapt the curriculum daily to support children with learning challenges and for those who may require an extension.  The curriculum is explored through different ways in which to engage the learning styles of each student.  Some children learn best by doing, others through more visual learning experiences such as art, or creating and making (kinesthetic), some learn best independently, while others work better in small groups.   This is differentiation.

How can you help your child?

It is important to discuss the needs of your child with your child's teacher.  Sometimes your child may behave very differently at home to school.  This is often because your child has had to "hold it in all day".  They have had to focus, ask questions, navigate others, play, listen to and hold onto instructions, and for many children this is exhausting.

If you are experiencing this at home, it may be an indication that your child may be finding some elements of school challenging or may require additional breaks. 

Parents know their children best and will know which is their preferred learning style and if they are finding elements of school challenging.  This is also an important discussion to have with your child's teacher so that other learning styles can be accommodated. 

NCCD PSG meetings

Thankyou to all families who met with us last term for PSG meetings. If you have not yet had the chance to meet with your child's teacher in regards to your child's Individual Learning Plan Goals, please contact me to make a time.

My email is kvranken@sjyarrajunction.catholic.edu.au