Assistant Principals
End of Semester Reflections
We often ask our students to reflect upon their semester of learning so that they are able to acknowledge the achievements that they have made and can plan for their future learning. At this time of year, we felt that it was also important for us, as a school, to reflect upon some of the key strategies that have occurred throughout the semester so that we can acknowledge both the work that has been done and to celebrate the successes that we have had.
This semester saw the introduction of the classroom ‘Ready to Learn/Teach’ behaviours. The introduction of this strategy across the College has allowed all students and teachers to have a consistent understanding of what the expectations are when we all walk through the classroom door. We are all prepared, punctual, respectful and ready to engage in the learning. The impact of this initiative has been reflected in some of the comments that we have been receiving from new families who have been touring the College. Comments are often made about how calm the school feels and that the students are engaged within their classrooms. It is wonderful to see that this strategy, along with our Codes of Cooperation and College Values Wheel having the impact that we all desire.
Our College tours and Open Day/Discovery Night were also a great success this year which has led to the College receiving a healthy number of Year 7 applications for 2019. This continues to show us that Wantirna College is the school of choice in Knox.
Semester 1 also saw the introduction of the College wide Postcards. These postcards were developed to recognise those students that were demonstrating team work, perseverance, their personal best, courage, kindness and being healthy. We always believe that it is important to recognise the many students at Wantirna College who consistently demonstrate and live the College values through their positive contributions and actions related to their learning and the community. Both students and staff have been receiving these postcards in the mail to acknowledge the exceptional work and effort that they have demonstrated in a range of areas.
There have been many great things occurring this semester, with the above being just a few. We are excited about what Semester 2 will bring and the many opportunities that are available for students to learn, both within and outside of the classroom.
Semester 1 Reports
Semester 1 Reports will be released to families via Compass on Friday 29th June. The Semester 1 reports will appear as a transcript of results with a cover page that outlines how to read the report. These reports are designed to provide families with an overall view of how their child has progressed over the semester, with key information about their child’s Victorian Curriculum level (7-10) and/or their completion of Unit 1/3 for VCE. Further details on the individual Learning Tasks (CAIs/SACs) can be found in your child’s Learning Task section on Compass. We would encourage all families to discuss their child’s report with them, reflecting on their learning and setting goals for Semester 2.
Mid-Year Awards Afternoon
On Monday 30th July the College will be holding our annual Mid-Year Awards afternoon in the College Theatre to recognise and celebrate those students that have achieved outstanding academic success in Semester 1. For each subject, teachers are asked to nominate students to receive an Academic Award for high academic achievement to recognise excellence and effort in their academic progress. Further details about this afternoon will be sent out to award recipients via Compass early in Term 3.
First Day of Term 3 for Students
The first day of school for students in Term 3 will be Tuesday 17th July. The reason for this is that on Monday 16th July (Student Free Day) teachers will be engaged in a range of professional learning activities. It is important for us as educators to continually learn and develop our capacity so that we are able to provide the very best education to our students. We would like to wish all our College Community a restful holiday break and look forward to seeing all of our refreshed students on Tuesday 17th July.
Catherine Ford, Andrew Lewis, Shane Kruger
Assistant Principals