Deputy Principals

PETER CUMMINS

Deputy Principal - Teaching & Learning

Year 9 Cognizance Research Project

In Terms 2 and 3 our Year 9 students will take part in the Cognizance Research Project developed by Independent Schools Victoria (ISV) in conjunction with Dr Jared Cooney-Horvarth from the University of Melbourne.

Year 9 students will participate in a range of activities within the context of the Science program that will develop their understanding of metacognition (reflection), and thinking strategies that they can then apply to their learning in other subjects. This links in well with the Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills that are taught in the IB Middle Years Program.

Recent scientific studies have revealed that the brain is not a fixed entity, but that it can be transformed throughout our lives. Brain architecture is influenced by an individual’s experiences and interactions with their environment. Scientists have started to identify factors that strongly influence brain transformation and neuroplasticity. Neural pathways are formed when associations and connections are made and involve all the sensory pathways entering the brain.

From the previous research work undertaken at Oakleigh Grammar, we have identified that educating students about their brain function will benefit how they approach thinking and learning.

The Cognizance Project this year has a focus on the explicit teaching of metacognitive skills e.g. focus, self-regulation, judgement, memory, planning, monitoring, etc. Teachers will undertake professional learning and be provided with the knowledge and processes to teach these learning skills.

This exciting project will benefit Year 9 students. We believe that our students are capable of taking more responsibility for their learning and can improve their ability to reflect and think how best they learn. This is another pathway by which our students can strive to be all they can be.

PETER DICKINSON

Deputy Principal - Operations

EVZONES Visit - Friday 23 March

Greek Independence Day March - Sunday 25 March

House Athletics - Tuesday 27 March