Principal’s Log

At the start of this week our Learning team presented the College’s approach to curriculum planning and leadership at the ISQ Curriculum Leaders Conference. The presentation included reference to linkages to global perspective through OECD research, the Four Pillars, and ongoing professional learning through engagement with the research of Harvard’s Project Zero team. This was then linked to processes for incorporating national perspectives through the Alice Springs Declaration and the Australian Curriculum. Strategies for implementing the new Australian Curriculum and the ongoing professional learning were also shared. ISQ has shared with the College that the evaluation of the conference showed that the presentation was highly valued by attendees. We thank our teachers for bringing this curriculum into life. We congratulate and thank our learning leaders, Director of Learning Ms Sue Arahill, Head of Learning, Senior College, Mrs Anne-Marie Gerlach, Head of Learning, Middle College, Mrs Jo Belchamber and Head of Learning K-5, Mrs Sue Zweck for their leadership of a rich contemporary approach to learning.

Our music students enjoyed the opportunity to connect and enhance their musicianship at their Music Camp held over the weekend. The camp provided opportunity for relationships to be strengthened and ensemble groups to welcome new members as they rehearsed together. Parents enjoyed the concert on Sunday afternoon.  There is much to look forward to with music this year, including our inaugural Music tour to New Zealand.  We thank Mrs Carlie Purkis, Mrs Helen Williams, Mr Paul Cusick, the music instrumental staff, students and parents for making this such a successful weekend.

Volunteers play such a critical role in providing the breadth of opportunities available at the College. Support of our parent-led Pacific FC Soccer and PLC Netball Clubs enable young people to experience the joy and benefits of competitive sport. These clubs provide opportunity for our parents to connect together as community. The Friends of Pacific also play a significant role in bringing community together and supporting events such as our Gala Days and this years OCEANFest. We thank those members of our community who have already completed the Volunteer Induction Training. While this adds an extra level of commitment for our volunteers it also helps us to work safely together as a community. We look forward to welcoming new and continuing members to our Friends of Pacific AGM next Tuesday evening at 6.30pm in the library.

We congratulate the following Year 6 students who have been appointed as Pacific Action Group Captains. We look forward to joining with their parents at the presentation of their badges next week on assembly.

Year 6 Pacific Action Group Captains

Sport:                                             John Fihelly and Macey McFadden

Academic:                                      Lucas von Plessen and Natasha Hodgett

Environment:                                 Sophia Biddle and Evie Schenck

Wellbeing:                                      Harry Pike and Maddison D’Arcy

Service / Spirituality:                      Bailee Kiernan and Autumn Meyerhoff

Technology:                                   Jean-Luc Vermaak and Jamie Turner

Cultural:                                         Zara Cammack and Lara Richards

Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students will be completing NAPLAN online from Wednesday 15th March – Monday 20th March. Parents of these students are encouraged to read the article later in this newsletter by Mrs Jo Belchamber, Head of Learning Middle College, to learn how they can assist their children to be ready for these tests.

May God grant us the wisdom and grace to be people who build and enhance relationships.

Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal