“Every little helps”¹

Having lived and taught for the best part of ten years in the United Kingdom over a decade ago, you’d be not too far off the mark in thinking that my lasting memory were the bitterly cold winters that I experienced. However, it is the slogan of supermarket chain Tesco’s, that has remained with me and brings back fond memories of doing the everyday, simple acts of food shopping, spending time with friends and eating a warm meal on those cold nights. “Every little helps’” has been synonymous with Tesco’s for decades and reflects the mission of helping the everyday shopper with their grocery bill. Likewise, at this time of year we should consider those who, in our community, are struggling to make ends meet. We are so fortunate to be in partnership with the Salvation Army once again as we come together as a community to contribute donations, of any size, of non-perishable food, household and personal items.  [1] https://www.tesco.com/ 

Year 7 Scientists

Teachers often talk about the hook to get learners engaged in an activity and of course examples are plentiful. The use of an egg in Year 7 Science last week certainly had my attention. With a focus on Newton’s laws of motion, specifically the second law, students collaborated in small groups to create a protective casing for their egg. Furthermore, with the use of a plastic bag to create a parachute, students launched their egg from a height. There was great anticipation as the egg landed; had it survived intact, or cracked as it came into contact with the ground below, and how was Newton’s second law applied here? Pleasingly, for some their egg survived. However, it was the thinking of those that needed to re-consider their design that was visible and reminded me of the acronym F.A.I.L. (First Attempt in Learning). I thank Mr Alex O’Connor and the scientists of 7A for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of their lesson.

Restorative Practices

In February this year, I wrote of the key steps involved in a Restorative meeting. I would like to flesh out the first step; the invitation. Essentially, this involves the facilitator of the meeting to formally invite those involved in the process. Ideally, this is a face to face conversation with each participant individually. Whilst it is not necessarily a time to bombard the participant with information, it may be that the person involved requires further clarity on what the meeting will involve. Nonetheless, there would ordinarily be anywhere from several hours to a day before the participant needs to decide on their involvement. Parents too, would be informed of the process. It is during this time that I encourage parents and carers to engage in conversation with their young person to guide them on their involvement or not. It is for many a big step to accept the invitation and whilst it may elicit feelings of angst and frustration, it is also the first step to repairing the harm that has been caused by one or both of those involved.

Uniform

I would like to thank the vast majority of our students for the way they are presenting themselves each day. I would encourage however, some of our young boys to purchase a new pair of school socks that are the appropriate size. Items can be purchased online through Flexischools or an appointment can be made through the main office (07) 5436 7300.

Open Day

Finally, I thank all students who were able to assist last Sunday to showcase the amazing school they help to create. The maturity and confidence of students, regardless of their age or the role they played, was evident to all and formed the basis for positive feedback from many families and staff.

Mr Ben Ryan, Director of Students