From the Principal
We find ourselves already halfway through Term One! This term is quite unique, with the Easter break and Term 1 holidays separated by 7 school days. Additionally, of the 10-week term, only 5 of those are full weeks at school.
The condensed nature of this term means that every day of learning is precious. Even though the term may seem short and fragmented, consistency in attendance is key to ensuring that students stay on track academically.
Research consistently shows that regular attendance is strongly correlated with academic success. Each day missed represents a missed opportunity for learning and can have a significant impact on a student's progress and achievement. By attending school consistently, students not only benefit from direct instruction but also from the social interactions and collaborative learning experiences that occur in the classroom.
Whilst it may be tempting to take an extra long break between Easter and the term break, those 7 days are compulsory school days and it is expected that all students attend unless there is an authorised reason to be away.
Disappointingly, I was not able to be in the school on the evenings of the Get To Know Your Child meetings this week. I have heard from the teachers that they were wonderful evenings of sharing information, building relationships and getting valuable insights into your child.
SPC Way
The way we do things at SPC
Your children may talk at home about the ‘Bump Chart’. Every classroom has a Bump Chart as part of the SPC Way.
Every day, all students start at ‘We are ready to learn’. Students who exemplify the SPC Way can make their way up the chart to receive stars.
Occasionally, students will move down the chart, if they are exhibiting behaviours that are not conducive to learning. This is not a punishment. The first step is giving the student a reminder to think about their choices, and they are prompted to get back on track. The next step is to move away from where they are seated, that might break the ongoing behaviour and give them some space to reflect and remember what is expected of them. The third step is a chat with a member of Leadership. At this stage, the student is counselled and given the opportunity to make better choices. Should a child continue to behave outside of the SPC Way, parents are contacted.
At every stage, students are encouraged to at least make their way back to ‘home base’ demonstrating a readiness to learn.