Term 1 I The Way Newsletter I Friday 08 March 2024

I would like to start this edition with a huge thank you. The commissioning service last week was a special occasion for the College and for me. I appreciated the support from the whole community and it was wonderful to open our College to so many visitors. I was really impressed with our students in particular, and having the service in the PEC with all students in one place was fantastic.

The education landscape is continually changing. Schooling is different now to 20 years ago. There are so many opportunities for young people and a myriad of choices. There are also new challenges that we all need to navigate. AI (artificial intelligence) is one new innovation that presents both opportunities and challenges with the potential to support student learning, but only if we engage with the technology rather than allowing it to do the work for us. It can be tempting to input questions into an AI platform, however, this is counter-productive to the desire that we have for our students to become independent thinkers and creative problem-solvers. Please encourage your children to complete their own work and always give their best as we approach assessment season. 

Post-COVID absenteeism across all schools has increased significantly and continues to have an effect. Missing learning has a huge impact on post school results and success. I encourage you to read Mr Young’s article about leave.

Given some of these challenges, I think it is also really important that we celebrate the many privileges that we share at the College. The recent swimming carnivals have translated into some exceptional participation at the CASA carnivals. I was struck by the desire of some students to represent the college and their peer groups by giving their best in relays and individual events. 

The musical will be upon us before we know it – the rehearsals are in full swing. I encourage you to keep an eye out for the details as we get closer to the event and look forward to seeing you at one of the performances.

Finally, this week is Open Week. The College looks fantastic and we are ready to welcome potential new families to our community. 

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

This year has seen the introduction of a new NSW Mathematics Syllabus across Years 3-6. While the content has not changed much, teachers now have access to a range of research-based resources and strategies to help students understand and master mathematical concepts and skills. There is a focus on frequently revisiting key knowledge through a “daily review” and allowing students to practice their skills using engaging games and activities that can be monitored by the teachers.

This week, students in Year 5 have been playing the game “snake eyes” to practice mental addition and subtraction. The use of mini whiteboards, online dice rollers and calculators for checking allows each child to readily access helpful resources. Other activities have focused on understanding concepts such as factors, multiples and rounding numbers. Playing games in pairs or small groups also allows children to learn from one another. Direct instruction lessons are also vitally important to help the children to see and hear the correct language and methods of working out problems.

Although our students have a numerous amazing resources at their fingertips, there is still the need to learn our basic number facts and time tables. We continue to encourage each child to spend time memorising these at home!

Mr Peter Butchatsky
Junior School Teacher - Year 5 Team Leader