Last year, the NSW Centre for Education Statistics and Evaluation (CESE) released a pivotal report titled ‘What Works Best.’ This research identifies eight of the most effective classroom practices for improving student outcomes, results and classroom engagement.
Leading that list is ‘High Expectations.’ The report highlights that students who consistently encounter high expectations are significantly more likely to see improved learning outcomes, increased motivation and better attendance.
In the Senior School, we are currently on a journey to elevate our expectations for student engagement. NESA shares this philosophy, setting rigorous standards that students must meet to remain eligible for progression to the following year.
What High Expectations Look Like
To support our students in reaching their potential, our focus includes:
- - Punctuality: Arriving at school and every class on time. (This will be a specific area of focus starting next week).
- - Consistency: Attending school every day, unless genuinely unwell.
- - Pride: Wearing the school uniform correctly and with respect.
- - Readiness: Arriving prepared for every lesson with the necessary books and stationery.
- - Dedication: Setting aside focused time after school for homework, assessment tasks, and revision.
We know that "High Expectations" work best when they aren't just a school policy, but a shared value. The transition from "doing enough" to "doing one's best" is much smoother when school and home are moving in the same direction.
Thank you for partnering with us to help our students set, and reach, the highest possible standards for themselves.