From the Deputy

Difference and Diversity

At St. Anthony's our improvement mantra for 2019 is 'High Expectations, Inclusivity, Students with a Voice, Excellence for All!' On Tuesday and Wednesday each week, our staff engage in after-school Professional Learning (PL) sessions to develop their practice as educators. 

Last night, the focus of the PL was understanding students with diverse learning needs; specifically Dyslexia and Autism Spectrum Disorder.  In this session, Anna Pink, provisional psychologist, worked with staff to deepen their understanding of the impact that disability can have on each student's ability to learn and what current research tells us works best in teaching students with disability. 

One thing that resonated, and was reiterated by staff, was the fact that all students have unique abilities and characteristics, and that all children can learn.  Anna spent some time providing examples of people who had achieved great life success and who also had a form of disability.  Richard Branson and Steven Spielberg are two such people who have been diagnosed with dyslexia and who are renowned for their work and achievements.  Their stories demonstrates the importance of hope, determination and problem solving skills as drivers of achievement. 

The St Anthony's community is fortunate to have a staff who are committed to each student, ensuring that their high expectations and skills as an educator support each student's success.   

I leave you with this poem, written by a young person with dyslexia, which encourages us all to recognise the sacred dignity of each person, valuing their unique qualities and contribution to this world.  

With best wishes,

Peta Overbury

Deputy Principal