As we begin another exciting school year at St John's it is imperative to stop and set some real and achievable goals. As I reflect upon our pleasing results in the 2020 HSC, it is important that I share the one common attribute each student who achieved these outstanding and personal best results developed, as they progressed through the grades at St John's. They read. They read regularly and widely. They asked questions as they read and they developed the ability to form opinions on the worthiness of texts. This reading exposed them to thousands of words that otherwise would be unknown. This in turn enabled these students to develop a sophisticated and highly academic writing style, that they could manipulate according to the academic register they were required to use.

Therefore as students set goals for the upcoming academic year, many will naturally focus on achieving a certain grade.  However, I encourage them to set goals that include a regular and wide reading pattern. I also encourage them to enter additional reading and writing competitions that will be advertised in daily notices and the newsletter. This dedication to reading will be of more benefit to a student and will allow them to be exposed to styles and language otherwise unknown.

Of course students will be reading short and longer texts in English but going beyond what is required in class can only enhance the skill development of a student. 

In addition to reading, students are encouraged to use SCRIBO across all grades.  This online program assists students with developing the complexity and cohesion of their written texts. 

We have a very passionate and dedicated English staff and should you have any concerns regarding your son or daughter’s progress, please contact the class teacher or myself. I look forward to another successful year, full of students reading and improving writing skills.