EFFECTIVE LEARNING – STUDENT AND PARENT FOCUS

 All schools spend time analysing the results of the HSC, NAPLAN, PAT and other external testing in order to review teaching practice and look for improvement. Both at St John’s and within the Diocese this is occurring. In recent weeks I have attended a number of Principal’s forums where we have discussed some significant questions.

• What does effective teaching and learning look like?
• What does effective, engaged learning look like?
• How do I know that effective teaching and learning is taking place in my school?

 The result of this was to have a closer look at my role as the Principal of the school in ensuring quality education takes place. A further series of discussions led to questions being asked around the responsibilities of all that are involved, from the Principal to the Coordinators to all Teaching Staff - in the ownership of generating quality student learning results.

 In Term 1 Mrs Murphy and Mrs Frew attended a conference looking at student engagement and it’s impact on learning outcomes. This was based on the work of Amy Berry.

 As a result of this my thoughts have taken a turn, and I have been pondering the question of just what an effective learner looks like. In fact, I discussed this with a Year 10 class. I was astonished by their insights and answers. They clearly knew what an effective learner looked like – even if they were not one themselves. They discussed the qualities, attitudes, traits and skill development of these students. We then discussed how we could all move towards becoming better learners. We discussed what a successful HSC student looked like, what a successful Year 10 student looked like and why some students only ‘switched on’ when they entered senior school (Years 11 and 12). It was a wonderful discussion and one that I encourage you all to take up with your child.

 So a further question goes out to ALL parents – what does an effective parent look like? When we see successful HSC or NAPLAN students we need to also look at the home life and support that these students receive. How do or can, parents support their child’s learning so that they may achieve at their best?

 Many parents tell me that they used to be able to assist their child with homework but not any more as they move upwards through school towards Years 11 and 12. But what can you still do to support? Perhaps, at times we are too busy to find time to reflect upon these questions. But time will also pass quickly and if we do not address these questions now our children will be out of school and moving on with their lives.

Perhaps, if you are struggling for answers, you could also discuss this with your child. Ask them how you can help them to an improved end point.

 These questions and their answers are not easy. But they are so worthwhile to ask. So, what sort of EFFECTIVE PARENT do you wish to be?

YEAR 9 CAMP

I had the pleasure of attending the Year 9 Camp last Thursday for a half day. I was keen to see how it operated and also the venues, which were new to me. It was wonderful to see that most of the students were having a great time.

Some were being challenged and pushed out of their comfort zones in the process. While a bit uncomfortable, these are the times and opportunity for real personal growth. I big thank you to all Staff who attended and gave time away from their families to allow this event to take place.

I wish all a wonderful fortnight ahead.