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Dear Parents/ Guardians,

EFFECTIVE LEARNING – STUDENT AND PARENT FOCUS.

All schools spend time analysing the results of the HSC, NAPLAN, PAT and other external testing in order to review teaching practice and look for improvement. Both at John Therry and within the Diocese this is occurring. In recent months I have attended a number of Principal’s forums where we have discussed some significant questions.

• What does effective teaching and learning look like?
• What does effective, engaged learning look like?
• How do I know that effective teaching and learning is taking place in my school?

The result of this was to have a closer look at my role as the Principal of the College in ensuring quality education takes place. A further series of discussions led to questions being asked around the responsibilities of all that are involved, from the Principal to the Coordinators to all Teaching Staff - in the ownership of generating quality student learning results.

As a result of this my thoughts have taken a turn, and I have been pondering the question of just what an effective learner looks like. In fact, I discussed this with my Year 10 class last year. I was astonished by their insights and answers. They clearly knew what an effective learner looked like – even if they were not one themselves. They discussed the qualities, attitudes, traits and skill development of these students. We then discussed how we could all move towards becoming better learners. We discussed what a successful HSC student looked like, what a successful Year 10 student looked like and why some students only ‘switched on’ when they entered senior school (Years 11 and 12). It was a wonderful discussion and one that I encourage you all to take up with your child.

So a further question goes out to ALL parents – what does an effective parent look like? When we see successful HSC or NAPLAN student’s we need to also look at the home life and support that these students receive. How do parents support their child’s learning so that they may achieve at their best?

Many parents tell me that they used to be able to assist their child with homework but not anymore as they move upwards through school. But what can you still do to support? Perhaps, at times we are too busy to find time to reflect upon these questions. But time will also pass quickly and if we do not address these questions now our children will be out of school and moving on with their lives.

So, what sort of EFFECTIVE PARENT do you wish to be? Below are some thoughts from a parent who had two students at the College – one turned out to be a high performing one and the other struggled with learning. Remember, these are the reflections of one parent and may not work for all. But worth a read.

Tips for parents during Year 12 HSC year- from another parent

• Always offer the support of buying any resources they may need: pens, books, excel books, study books, essay writing books etc.
• Attend Career Expos with your child: They are a fabulous way of helping your child decide on their career path and they have many great free study lectures and talks on many of the HSC subjects.
• Take advantage of the HSC lectures that are held at Narellan and Campbelltown libraries: The study lectures are fabulous and cheap, around $10 - $15 each, they include many subjects, and usually send head lecturers who are very involved in the HSC marking and exam structure. Book early to avoid disappointment. A great way to find out the structure and expectations of each subject, and to hear another point of view.
• Don't put any pressure on your child with career expectations: Your child should be the one who is responsible for their future career. It is essential that they are happy in their chosen career path, in order for them to succeed, as they will be working for many years.
• Don't nag your children to study - ever !!!!!! They know what they have to do, and will usually do it, without you constantly saying "you should be studying". As the mother of a Dux, and another child who struggled in the HSC, I never ever told my children to study, and they both got into the course and university that they wanted to. My children said that they both valued this during Year 12. There will be enough pressure put on them from the school.
• Let them still have their hobbies and or sports, but not too many. This gives them enjoyment, friendships, happiness and aids in stress release.
• Visit a bookstore a few times during the year: They have lots of great HSC resources, and it is a silent motivator !!
• You don't need to take time off work during the HSC exam time, unless you want to; Just provide lots of healthy food, and a well stocked pantry. You'll find that the children are coming and going all the time anyway, or going to the library for study sessions.
• Finally, lots of prayers and positive support. Lovely little "I'm proud of you and all your efforts" notes, throughout the year will also do wonders !!