Dear Parents and Caregivers
Holidays are upon us again; this time they are an indicator that we have passed the halfway mark of the academic year. As always, it has flown by with so many successes and moments of joy too numerous to mention! As you read on, you will see news of Choir, Instrumental, Pedal Prix and SAPSASA triumph - how lucky we are to have so much involvement across such a scope of activities and possibilities.
This time, however, I would like to turn your attention to the learning successes experienced in this first half of the year. You will have received your child's mid-year report earlier this week. Within, you will read descriptions of the learning offered, the knowledge and skills being developed and acquired, and the achievement levels reached. I have the privilege of reading student reports before they are sent home. This is a great opportunity for me as it is another way to learn more about the children in our school. The piece I like the most are the student reflections which begin with illustrations of favourite plays spaces, transition through highlights and challenges and finish with students who are capably reflecting on the learning strategies they are using and the techniques they engage to increase their abilities and understanding. A learner who recognises the ways they learn best is very likely to succeed and it was wonderful to read the descriptions from senior students who have been honing this skill. Strategies engaged included the use of learning journals, note taking, conscious focussing and practising particular literacy and numeracy techniques. Reading this from students of this age fills me with such optimism, I had to share with some of my education colleagues (de-identified of course). Needless to say, they were blown away, to use a colloquial term, and have taken examples to share with their secondary students and teachers.
We are very lucky indeed to have that five-star recipe of engaged, earnest students, supportive families and excellent teachers - the sky really is the limit.
On that cheerful note, I wish you all enjoyable and safe holidays. I hope they bring an opportunity for more time together, some relaxation and some excitement too!
Kind regards
Chan
