Principal's Address
NAPLAN results 2022
The National Assessment of Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) results for 2022 were released to schools two weeks ago. The NAPLAN tests assess the literacy domains of reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation and the numeracy domains of measurement, geometry, statistical graphing and algebra.
Excitingly, Boorowa Central School’s results were very positive in reading – the whole school focus area for the past three years.
Our school has experienced growth of 10% when analysing the top two bands since 2018.
When analysing the top two bands in our two sections of the school, primary achievement has been on a positive trend since 2018, well on track to achieving the Premier’s priority goal. Our secondary literacy trend has improved significantly and is currently well above our goal.
If we drill down further into reading, Year 3 results indicate we are above those of similar schools and closing the gap with the state, Year 5 results show that we are well above similar schools and almost on par with the state, Year 7 - again we are well above the similar school and almost on par the state and Year 9 we are above the state average and well above similar schools.
These impressive results are a testament to the classroom teachers who have been embedding specific literacy strategies into each lesson. These results are also a reflection of the hard work and dedication show by the staff who have been leading the COVID ILSP literacy intervention program for the past year and three terms.
Year 12 – Final week of school
It is with mixed emotions that I say farewell to yet another cohort of Year 12 students at Boorowa Central School. On the one hand, I am sad to know that we will not have them in our school anymore whilst on the other hand, I am excited that their journey ahead is really only just beginning. As educators, we hope that we have imparted our knowledge as best as possible so that each of the individuals can use this knowledge and thrive in any chosen career.
To celebrate their final week of school, Year 12 took part in a variety of activities. Firstly, they hosted the Trivia night last week in the Hall which successfully raised plenty of funds that will now be used to offset the costs associated with leaving and their final celebrations.
This week, Year 12 participated in their Graduation Assembly, the final formal school-based function ahead of their formal in November. Whilst the students were initially not too keen on this event, it was a moving assembly as each of the students took the time to look back at their years spent at Boorowa Central School and reflect on the fun they have shared, despite recent COVID-19 hardships. Each student received their final report, cards from staff and had their names called out for their last ever roll call before sharing a moment and releasing balloons.
The mood of the assembly changed significantly after this as the ‘muck-up’ assembly began. Staff and students alike were ‘eating it’ or ‘wearing it’ if they could not answer specific Year 12 and staff trivia questions – much to the delight of the year groups watching on. I coped a face full of cream, others had a mixture of raw egg and custard power dumped on their head! The good news is that the teachers flipped the script and made Year 12 answer questions about the staff. Unfortunately for them, most Year 12s received the same treatment curtesy of the teachers.
Year 12 then hosted a social on Tuesday night before being given the night to tastefully, ‘muck-up’ the school. The highlight for me was the 100 past school photos of me posted on every surface in the admin building.
On Wednesday morning, we welcomed the students back to school for the traditional ‘morning after’ BBQ. Whilst there were many tired faces, it’s always reassuring to see all of the students healthy and not too worse for wear.
And finally, we saw Year 12 dress according to a different theme each day, parading themselves each morning at roll call, much to the amusement of the secondary school.
Whilst face to face schooling has now finished for Year 12, I would like to remind them that their Higher School Certificate Examinations are just around the corner. I hope that they keep their focus on study and revision to ensure they receive marks they can be proud of.
So, to Zara, Felix, David, Abbie, Cheyene, Madisson, Hannah and Kieran, I wish you the best of luck for these examinations and I am looking forward to hearing all about them at your Formal.
SMArt and Drama Night
I mentioned this fantastic event last Newsletter, but I wanted to take this opportunity again to congratulate all of the students for their wonderful performances and to thank all of the dedicated staff for their hard work and contribution to the event. Whilst the event is designed to highlight and celebrate student achievement in art, music, dance, and drama, it would not be possible without the hours of time staff spend both during class time and outside of school hours ensuring everything is prepared and runs smoothly on the night. And I am sure that by now you have all heard about the brief possum interlude. What a showstopper!
Touch Football / Netball Carnival
A reminder that the annual Touch Football / Netball Carnival is approaching. It is to be held on Friday 21 October 2022. If you have not experienced this yet, it is an exceptionally large, non-competitive carnival, targeting participation and enjoyment of Touch Football and Netball. It is for Primary aged students from Year 2 to Year 6 to take part and for students in Years 7-12 to officiate, score, and help on the day. We regularly have between 6000 and 8000 people at the showground for the day so if you are planning on coming to watch, be at the ground before 7.30am!
This carnival is also the main fundraiser for both Boorowa Central School and St Joseph’s Primary School – a tradition that can be traced back for more than 50 years.
End of Term
It is the end of another busy term of learning at Boorowa Central School. I would like to wish all students, families, and staff a happy and relaxing holiday. Hopefully, we get a break from the rain and have the opportunity to enjoy some sunshine over the next two weeks.
Students and staff return on Monday 10 October 2022.
Mr Graham Jones I Principal