Junior School

By Mr Gavin Webb, Director of the Junior School

Well done to all, on your efforts in ensuring Term 1 has been a success. This is despite the obstacles that Covid isolation continues to present us with on a daily basis. Monday, January 31, seems like a long time ago when the Year 7’s entered the gates for the first time, with Year 8’s commencing on Tuesday, February 1. Many learning experiences have been had, both in and out of the classroom and there is so much to look forward to in Term 2 and beyond, but not before a well-deserved rest over Easter!

Upon reflecting on Term 1, I would strongly encourage you to take the time to discuss with your son the learnings and challenges he has faced in the last couple of months. I have mentioned to the classes that I teach that it is imperative that everyone needs to adopt a growth mindset and be prepared to show some grit, as everyone at times will face challenges. This theme is one that I and all Junior School staff will continue to revisit throughout the year. It is important to celebrate the successes, and there have been plenty, but it is equally important to learn from experiences that may not have been deemed successful. I prefer to not use the word failure as I see all experiences as learning opportunities and like to see students make every lesson and day count. The rate of development, physically, intellectually, socially and emotionally that your son is currently experiencing as a 12 or 13-year-old is rapid. It is vital that they are challenged and appropriate feedback is given. As educators we are not judging the intelligence of your son but merely passing comment on where they currently are at in terms of their ongoing development. So, thank you for the support and guidance you have given your son over the first term.

Week 10

As was communicated to you all by our Principal, Steven O’Connor, week 10 is not a normal week, due to the overriding disruption that Covid is causing on the staff numbers at school. Year 7 and 8 students will not be required on site at school on Thursday 7 April and Friday 8 April, staff will post work on MS Teams, SIMON and email. There will be no “Teams call” but students are expected to complete the work set. Staff will be available on Teams and email to answer student concerns. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Student Diary

Student diaries have been in use since the commencement of the year, well done to those who have populated their diary with key dates, weekly homework and assessment task dates. Pastoral Teachers will endeavour to sign the diaries over the course of a week/fortnight. As parents, it would be great if you could talk to your son about the usage and importance of using the diary regularly. Improving this skill and creating a habit will improve his organisational and management skills as he progresses into Middle/Senior School and beyond. The diary can be used as a way to communicate with SPC staff, as well as PAM, email and phone.

Key dates – Term 2

Mon, April 25	Anzac Day, public holiday
Tue, April 26	Students return, Anzac Day Assembly 10:15am
Wed, April 27	SPC Athletics Carnival
Fri, April 29	SPC Lap of the Lake
Thur, May 5	Edmund Rice Day walkathon and St Pat’s has talent
Fri, May 6	Mother’s Day Mass and Breakfast 7:00am
Tue, May 10	Year 7 NAPLAN commences
Fri, May 13	Year 7 NAPLAN finishes
Tue, May 17	Year 8 Police visit, 10:15am
Thur, May 19	Year 7 Police visit, 12:25pm
Tue, May 24	BAS Athletics

 

Regards

Mr Gavin Webb

Director of Junior School