Principal Message 23rd February 2024
Dear Families,
I took a stroll through our classrooms over the last two weeks and was really impressed with the routines or 'predicatble classrooms' our teachers are developing and facilitating for our children. It’s important that we all support kids with their transition into mainstream schooling. Getting kids into routines is a great way to lay a solid foundation to build learning.
One of the key ways of supporting this transition for our students is via communication. If any parent has concern relating to your child your first point of call is always the classroom teacher. Your teacher will always listen and there is no question that can’t be asked.
It’s great to see all teachers using our WSAPB (Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviours) across our school to support classroom learning. The WSAPB values are a great way of reminding all in the Columba Learning Community that we are about building positive relationships with each other, and are designed to support students, parents and teachers. I touched on these values last week, but again want to make the link for families on how we connect this to supporting student behaviour and expectations.
The core values of our Columba WSAPB, Respect, Perseverance, Inspiration, Generosity, Fairness are crucial components in each of our student's individual development. Each fortnight all classes across our school will have a specific learning focus based on one of the core values listed below. We all work with the students to connect these values and the behaviours that come from these values.
Whether it is starting school for the first time, moving up to a higher grade or embarking on a journey through secondary school, there is no doubt that any school transition is a very exciting time for children and parents. It means that the children are growing up!
However, for many it may also be a very anxious and stressful time for both parents and children. Parents need to be aware of their child’s feelings during any school transition and minimise anxiety so the process is an enjoyable experience for all. It is important for children to attend transition or orientation programs offered by schools. Familiarisation is often key to reducing stress levels. It is also important for parents to talk to their children about their expectations and being more responsible for their own needs.
The Specialist for this Edition
Michael sits on the Board of many organisations including the National Centre Against Bullying. In 1985 he founded CanTeen, a cancer support group for teenagers. He is the resident psychologist on Channel 7’s Sunrise and has worked as an academic, researcher and political lobbyist. Michael has written several best-selling books on parenting including ‘Surviving Year 12’.
Additional Assets