From the Deputy 

Learning for All Ages

Dear Families,

I'd like to thank the students and staff for the way they have adapted to the new (and slightly altered) routines on return to onsite learning.  I would also like to thank all of the families who were able to write a message of support for our staff on our return.  The staff were incredibly grateful for your messages of support and appreciation.  We have decided to turn these into a book which can be looked back on in the future (when the memory of COVID has faded somewhat) to remind us of the challenges we faced and how we were able to overcome them together.   I know you will all agree when I say we are so fortunate to be part of such a supportive school community.

As restrictions continue to ease, the learning projects with which our teaching staff were involved in Term One have recommenced. These projects form part of our Professional Development strategy  and align with our Annual Action Plan to ensure ongoing improvement in teaching and learning across our school.  Two of the projects we are a part of include:

1: Early Number and Algebra Professional Learning Program with Catholic Education Melbourne staff.  

Based on Dr. Bob Wright's research at Southern Cross University regarding the assessment and teaching of mathematics in the Early Years, this project explores children’s early arithmetical knowledge and the strategies they use. Teachers involved in this project include Lauren Maidment (Mathematics Leader), Marina Russo and Marie Georgiadis.

2. Writing - Years 3 - 6 Project with Catholic Education Melbourne and the team at the Southern Office.  This project draws on current research in the area of writing, focusing on the use of mentor texts (pieces of literature which are studied as examples of effective writing) that students can learn from and emulate.  

The teachers involved in this project include Toni Dent, Linda Di Camillo, Marie Casey, Linzi Canavan, Melanie Norton, led capably by our English Leader, Mrs Marina Russo.

At St. Anthony's we believe that learning is for life and our staff are committed to ensuring that each student experiences an education of the highest quality.  I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge our school curriculum leaders who collaborate on a vision and direction for our school and who bring such passion and expertise to their roles.

As we approach the end of what feels like a longer than usual term, I wish you all a wonderful holiday with your family.  I look forward to seeing everyone together again next term.

With best wishes,

Peta Overbury

Deputy Principal