Deputy Principal, Teaching and Learning 

It exciting to be back with the students in the classroom. Last week at our first day assembly I challenged students to consider the phrase ‘Ready, Set, Go’. 

Preparing for learning does not have to be complex. The phrase ready, set, go is an interesting one. The idea of how to SET yourself up for your learning in 2023 is one that interests me. In my mind, SET means to be prepared and be organised. This means that students must come to class on time with all the necessary materials to learn. No excuses. Textbooks, record book, laptop charged, pens, pencils. The College has high expectations for our students being ready to learn.

It also means having the right mindset. Sometimes students don’t feel like learning and concentrating, as they might be tired, anxious. So, setting yourself up to learn requires a shift in one’s mindset to say, ‘I am ready to learn’. And this week we have seen many of our students demonstrate this.

We welcomed our students who are studying with an External Provider to a lunch time meeting with the new Head of VET Mrs Sylvia Mc Mullen. If your child/ren is studying a VET subject, or working with Virtual Schools Victoria or Victorian School of Languages, then we have a team that is here to support them with their learning.

Our 2023 Edge and Excel Programs were launched with a luncheon and the presentation of badges to students. These programs offer students the opportunity to be extended in their learning, taking on new challenges in a range of subject areas. We are excited about how this program will unfold.

Finally, we are privileged to have new staff join the teaching team at The Hamilton and Alexandra College. If you follow the College’s social media many of the staff have been profiled. I would encourage you to welcome them to our connected community.

In the words of educator Paulo Freire, ‘Education is an act of love, and this an act of courage’. We teach with both our heads and our hearts. We thank our parents for partnering with us on this important journey.

Susan Bradbeer

Deputy Principal, Teaching and Learning