Individual Differences

Austism

On 27 April we organised for Dr Richard Eisenmajer (Director of The ASD Clinic in Melbourne) to attend the College, and provide an overview to all staff on Autism Spectrum Disorder and the common difficulties students with this disorder, can confront at home and at the College. This was an exceptionally good session with most staff informing me that they had come away with a much clearer understanding of ASD and its associated issues.  Coming up in July, we have also planned for Leonie Hehir to present an information session on Dyslexia and the best ways to support secondary students who experience difficulties with reading and writing due to this particular learning difficulty.

One of our Beacon (Learning Enhancement Centre)staff members recently attended a session run by Tim Dansie (Psychologist & Expert on Parenting and Educational Issues).  Tim’s recommendations for helping students to get better results at school were quite simple:

• Set regular homework times
• Eat together as a family
• Check your son’s homework and assignments
• Ask and talk to them about their schoolwork
• Play games together (non-screen)

He also stressed the value of part-time work for students and the important associated life skills to be gained from this.

Ms Sue Gabron

Learning Enhancement  Coordinator