Learning and Teaching 

Reporting

You may be aware that, over the course of the year, we have been transitioning the reporting process to a more continuous method. This is for two reasons; the first is to make sure that reporting is consistent across the school, whilst the second is to ensure that reporting of achievement better supports learning. With reports due to be released in the coming weeks, it is timely to communicate what will be different in 2023.

With all assessment results and feedback now available via PAM, the reliance on a comprehensive (or summative) report at the end of semester to communicate achievement becomes less important. This summative report, whilst helpful, often comes too late; the feedback cannot be put into practice in a timely fashion and, as such, does not directly support student learning. In 2023, whilst still providing a summary of what has been achieved over the course of the semester, the report will be more succinct.

By better utilising PAM, the parent function of the College’s student management system, reporting will move to a more continuous mode in 2023. That is, parents and students will receive feedback that is provided closer to the time that the assessment was done. The feedback, which will only be shown on PAM, will focus on learning (as a process), the assessment task itself, or a combination of both. All feedback is designed to bring about improvement.

We believe this process will better serve the needs of all students at St Bede’s College as well as allow the relationship between the school, the parent and the student to flourish. We are always open to feedback ourselves; should you have any questions or comments regarding the reporting process, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

End of Year 2022 and in to 2023

In writing the final newsletter for 2022, it comes with great hope and optimism for what lies ahead. Having had a couple of years heavily impacted by COVID-19, 2022 was a challenging year as we got ‘back-to-normal’. Nevertheless, in recent weeks the transition into Flying Start has been a highly efficient and effective one. The great work done to ensure that classes were allocated and timetables were ready has meant that in the space of four days, students and teachers were able to commence the 2023 school year. At the same time we welcomed the Year 10 2023 student cohort as one to the Mentone Campus, which has us in a good position for 2023.

With some foundational learning and teaching elements introduced over the course of this year - for example the Habits Rubric along with teacher professional learning on teaching strategies that positively impact learning outcomes - there is an enthusiasm for what the year ahead will bring. The introduction of the Pastoral Period is a very positive step. Through The Resilience Project our students will become better equipped to meet the demands of school with confidence and support. In turn, the learning program at the school becomes more dynamic as expectations of students increase in line with their capacity. 

Whilst many of us look forward to the break over the festive season, we are grateful for the support provided by families and proud of the varied achievements of our students. We wish you well and hope that you enjoy the holiday season through time spent with family and friends. God Bless.

Brenden Mair

Deputy Principal

Teaching and Learning