Across the Senior School we have been intentional in speaking with the students around their approach and attitude towards College.
The College is focused on getting the small details around uniform, technology use and attendance to a high standard. This might seem insignificant to some of our community, but these small details reflect a broader expression around our ‘attitude and respect’ towards our College community.
We have had concerns when a small number of students are unwilling to comply with the College standards or Code of Conduct. This would be a concern for parents too, and so we have been addressing this across the Senior School and taking time to ask students to remove nail polish and extra piercings, ensure that they are in the full school uniform and with an appropriate hat. For us it is not just about ‘the hat’ or ‘the extra piercings’, or ensuring students are attired in the correct uniform. Personally, I love some of the creative ways in which students want to bring expression to this world. However, if we have a commitment to move together towards a better outcome, for everyone, then I know that the whole community will benefit. I have been in schools where there were low standards in these areas which translated into challenging classroom environments that ultimately impacted upon the learning. When individuals act in a way that challenges the commitment to the overall team then inevitably there may be conflict.
As you read the recent interim reports you will find the comments around ‘Learning Behaviours’. The four ‘tick a boxes’ include the terms: ‘rarely’, ‘sometimes’, ‘usually’ and ‘consistently’. These comments are indicators of a student’s commitment and attitude in their learning. If we have a student working at capacity, regardless of ability, the indicators will be on the right-hand column, ‘consistently’. At this point you can conclude that your child is working at a positive level and should be commended. Their attitude and effort is reflected by their attention in the classroom, and beyond, towards their work. Of course, if the indicators are falling short of this area, in a particular learning behaviour, then this is a potential area to focus on to improve. None of this is linked to a student’s academic ability. It is all linked to their attitude and effort in academic learning.
The Easter vacation is nearly there. Time for a break ahead of a productive Term 2.
'But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.' 1 Corinthians 12:31
