Stopping The Snowball

The theme of this term, You Can Do It, surrounds relationships. Throughout all our relationships, there will be times when we have a disagreement that has the potential to unravel into something bigger.

Of course, we always possess the power to change the course of problems and situations that we encounter from becoming more significant than they need to be. In our Assemblies, I have used the analogy of a snowball rolling down a hill. When a snowball starts, it begins small and is easily stopped. If left unchecked, a snowball grows and grows, becoming unstoppable, eventually damaging everything in its wake. Luckily, there are many techniques we can use to stop a problem from growing into an uncontrollable landslide.

One such tool is the ‘High Five Hand’ – speak friendly, speak firmly, ignore, walk away and report or get help. Students are reminded of their role if they are involved in or witness problems; they have a range of problem-solving strategies that aim to solve potential issues between students.

This technique aligns well with our thread of resistance this week and next. The ability to change the outcome of a situation toward a positive outcome rests with us all but, at times, can be challenging to attain. As part of our social and emotional toolkit, the “High Five Hand” aims to equip students with an easy-to-use tool that empowers young people to manage their relationships better.

Student movement before and after school.

We remind families that adult supervision in the college begins at 8.00 am. Students being dropped off at the college before this time are unsupervised and are therefore at risk of possible harm. We ask that students be dropped off at the college after 8.00 am or families contact the college OSHC for placement to ensure they are adequately supervised.

Once the school day is finished, students are asked to make their way promptly off the school grounds and should be waiting in the designated pick-up zones. Adult supervision ceases at 3.30. All students have been reminded that after school is not the time to play games or use equipment on the grounds.

Students across Years Three to Five have also been reminded of their responsibilities around devices before and after school. That device should be in bags until students exit the college. They should not be used when waiting before or after school. Devices can be used under supervision in the library until 4.00 pm.

Smartwatches

As technology continues to evolve, the use of smartwatches has grown. A smartwatch has many positives but, as such, falls under the exact requirements of other devices when used at the college. Students have been reminded that contacting anyone external to the campus via a smartwatch is not allowed. This can create confusion and mixed messages, and families and students are reminded to use the appropriate communication channels by ringing the administration or emailing your child’s teacher.

Year 5 Outdoor Education Program

We look forward to the Year Five’s embarking on their Outdoor Education Program at Luther Heights on the 28th of March. All information regarding the experience has been communicated from the Head of Outdoor Education, Mr Paul Brace. We thank him and his team for his preparation and flexibility in organizing the first Outdoor Education Program for this year. We look forward to hearing all about the Year Five’s adventures upon their return.

Student-Led Conferences.

Next week, parents and students will have the opportunity to engage with teachers, celebrate the growth of learning across the term, and set goals that will guide learning into the next term. These conferences are led by students and provide a time of rich reflection and growth for our young people. These will be held via Whereby, and families have received instructions regarding how and when to book these connections. If you are unsure of the process regarding these conferences, please get in touch with your child’s teacher.

Take care and God Bless.

Mr Damian Davis, Head of Staff and Students P-5