Dear Parents, students and friends
As usual, it has been an exciting start to the term with many activities, excursions and learning opportunities happening in and around the College. Term 2 provides students from all years with opportunities to test their learning so they can gauge their progress. Whilst sitting exams can have negative connotations for some, by applying a positive attitude and asking themselves “what are the main study points for me to work on”, students will have a better chance of success. It is important for students to put first things first. This of course is habit number three form the seven habits of highly effective people, a number one best seller by Stephen R. Covey which a number of year groups are working their way through this year. If students plan their lives around one of his phrases “to organise and execute around priorities” over the next few weeks, it will ensure that they have maximum time for revision and study. The reason I say this is that we have a few important examination dates coming up:
NAPLAN: Occurring for years 7 – 9, Tuesday 9th – Thursday 11th May.
Year 11 and 12 Exams: Friday 20th May – Friday 27th May.
Years 8, 9 and 10 exams: Friday 27th May – Friday June 3rd.
It is important that students stick to their normal routines during exams and have adequate nutrition and sleep. This will ensure the best possible chance of success.
Year 7 Camp
I had the privilege of spending two days on camp with this delightful year group. It was exciting to see students push their own personal boundaries through a variety of activities. One boy came to me after the first morning stating that it was the first time he had slept in a dorm with other boys and although feeling a bit anxious about it at first ended up feeling good about it.
I also enjoyed the rafting activity. Students were required to work together as a team to row and steer the boat. There was also fun and games when the two boats rafted up and students had to change positions. Communication and listening were vital in this activity. It was fascinating to observe the students early attempts and compare it to later ones. When the students learnt to listen, communicate and work with each other rather than putting their own needs first, success came quicker and was far more orderly. I am sure the students slept well over the weekend.
A big thanks to Mr Winkler for the time and energy he put into organising the camp and the staff who went along to support and run the activities. Photos of the camp will follow in the next newsletter.
VETiS Award
Students in years 11 and 12 have the opportunity of studying a certificate course at a local TAFE. Currently there are over 900 students who are participating in this program. Last year, John Estimoff came second out of all the students studying in this program from across the state. John was awarded this prize in the last week of term 1 in a ceremony at Notre Dame University in Fremantle. Congratulations John on this outstanding achievement.
Upcoming Events
Career’s Expo, Years 10 and 11, Thursday May 12th.
Outdoor Ed action hike, Year 8, Monday May 16th.
Chess Zone Competition, Friday 20th May.
Wishing you all the best for the rest of the term.
Warmest Regards