TOP

Critical Communication

This week at Senior Campus, we conducted our first Student-Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews for 2022. These interviews allow parents and students to meet with staff to discuss progress within specific subject areas. No doubt, you will notice the inclusion of the word ‘student’ in this title.

We have long recognised the importance of student attendance at these interviews. Involving students in the ongoing discussions and consequent actions about their learning journey is a vital point that allows them to have agency and take ownership of their learning. Teaching staff have a range of strategies to support learning to harness student progress. We believe that if teachers, students and parents build strong relationships, they can work together to improve learning outcomes.

Constructive feedback is a valuable tool, and one way to receive this information is via Parent-Student-Teachers Interviews. It is the chance to reflect upon and evaluate progress. As an IB candidate school, we are committed to supporting all students to find success in their learning by emphasising developing skills referred to as ‘Approaches to Learning’ – thinking skills, social skills, communication skills, self-management skills, and research skills. Each of these skills connects to the School’s mission of nurturing the ‘Heart, Head and Hand’. This focus underpins our breadth of programs while also defining clear directions for improvement. Through regular reflection and collaboration with staff and parents, students can determine the strategies they need to improve their personal best in their learning.

Our Continuous Reporting Model uses timely updates to summative and formative assessments, supporting student knowledge and skills. Formative feedback allows students to check in with teachers, provide suggestions and feedback to be put into practice. Rubrics are used, where appropriate, to develop clear indicators of current abilities and areas for future learning improvements. Summative assessment provides final measurements for an assessment area.

This wonderful video was created by a key member of our Senior Campus IT team, Ms Cass Zara to assist families accessing SEQTA and use it to generate conversations about what the next steps in learning look like for your child.

Please take the time to view the video above. It will provide you with a clear snapshot of the SEQTA resources and Continuous Reporting.

Through the IB MYP and Senior Years, we strive to develop learners who are reflective. We encourage our students to understand their strengths and areas for improvement to support their learning and personal development. When formative and summative assessments are posted on SEQTA, students are encouraged to write a written reflection for most tasks which is located in the assessment post. Engaging with these reflections is a great way of encouraging your child to share their learning with you.

As we near the end of term, I would like to thank all students and their families for a wonderful start to the year at Senior Campus. I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at Homestead Night tomorrow!

NAT McLENNAN
Deputy Principal - Head of Senior Campus