It has been another busy term for our Year 8s. In particular, Week 9 included submission of tasks for a number of subjects. Popping in and out of classes, it has been pleasing to see students busily tidying and improving final submissions of everything from Japanese spoken tasks to written scripts and folio work. I am sure our Year 8s are looking forward to a well-earned rest over the holidays!

During cohort assemblies, we have continued to focus on the SPIRIT value of “teamwork” and the qualities of being a good team mate (class mate) as a community of learners. In particular, we have focused on two key questions:

1. Who’s on your team? – each other, teachers, school support staff, external staff, family and others.
2. What’s your mountain (goal)? – what are you aiming to improve, and in which subject or learning area?

Being a good class mate (team mate) includes respecting the rights of others to learn, doing your best, caring for the physical environment, being sensitive and understanding to the needs of others, respecting individual difference, collaboration and cooperation and working together in a positive and constructive way. It was pleasing to acknowledge students who consistently display these behaviours through SPIRIT Awards on assembly, and these behaviours will be a continued focus for Year 8 next term.

In Term 4, electives for the Arts and Technology will rotate to ensure Year 8s experience a range of subjects within the curriculum. This is essential in their “Wonder Years” to ensure they are able to experience a range of curriculum offerings to see which ones they enjoy and may wish to pursue in the future.

Subject selections for Year 9 electives will take place next term, and we will send information home regarding this as it becomes available.

On each cohort assembly, I have also reminded our Year 8s to utilise their Assessment Calendar. I will send home the Term 4 Assessment Calendar in a separate Year 8 Bulletin when it is finalised. Next term, please take the time to discuss the calendar with your Year 8 student and support them to plan their study time. This helps to establish positive study habits that will benefit them as they move forward in their schooling. Planning ahead is always important!

I commend our Year 8s on their academic and personal success throughout Term 3, and am excited to see continued success from them next term. Wishing everyone a safe and restful holiday, and I look forward to seeing everyone after the break.

Happy holidays!

Mrs Lynda Robertson

Deputy Principal