Term 2 is upon us, and as the weather cools down the girls are really enjoying being able to stay inside during recess and lunchtime. They have taken the opportunity to bring out the UNO cards for indoor fun. So I took the opportunity and had ‘Old Fashion Fun Friday’ and the girls were able to play some classic board games such as Yahtzee, Trouble, Connect 4 and Guess Who. It was a success, and it required them to talk and actually communicate (and negotiate rules at times) with each other. A nice change from seeing devices in their hands.

During the first weeks of Term, I have had several conversations with students regarding their Leadership Diploma. It has been pleasing to hear that several girls have been working towards completing the community service component over the term holidays. I know several also volunteered last term in the Red Cross Doorknock on Friday evenings, their service will contribute to achieving their Diploma.

As part of the Leadership Diploma, students will also be required to complete a ‘Digital Citizenship’ component. During Level period Ms Kathryn White, Head of Education Resources and Information Centre, delivered a presentation on Digital Citizenship, discussing topics ranging from digital addiction, the myth of multitasking and unplugging from technology. Students were then informed of the tasks that need to be completed to fulfil this component of the Diploma, such as unplugging from a device for a predetermined time.

As the Year 9 students sit in their classes this Term they will be part of discussions regarding their first upcoming examinations. At the beginning of June the students will be undertaking examinations for their core subjects. These examinations will provide the students with the opportunity to consolidate skills and knowledge they have learned through the semester and build a good foundation for next year. Many of them, I am sure, will be nervous and not quite sure as to what to expect or how to prepare for these assessment tasks. During the Level periods this Term, the students will have the opportunity to listen to a guest speaker from Success Integrated provide some great advice about studying and persistence. The speaker will discuss the meaning of growth and fixed mindsets, as well as the importance of grit when challenged and attempting to achieve goals. In addition, students will also be involved in a presentation on examination tips, techniques and strategies.

Earlier this term Mr Marshall, Director of Teaching and Learning, spoke to the girls about subject selections for 2019. He explained the requirements for academic advancement in 2019 (please see below).

Academic Advancement for students in 2019

During Term 3 this year, students will complete their subject selections for 2019.

Years 9 and 10 girls have the opportunity to apply for academic advancement and may decide to study a VCE Unit 1/2 subject in Year 10 2019 or study a Unit 3/4 subject in Year 11 2019.

In order for students to apply successfully for academic advancement, they will need to meet a number of criteria.

Selection Criteria

Students must demonstrate academic excellence during Semester 1 and 2 in order to apply for advancement.

• Performance in the subject to be studied in at VCE level (A grade or higher)
• Language proficiency (B+ grade or higher in English/EAL)
• B+ grade average in all other subjects during the year
• Organisational ability reflected in learning behaviours for all subjects.

All subject selections are considered tentative until ratification at the end 2018 by the Academic Review Panel following completion of end of year exams.

The Academic Review Panel is comprised of Heads of Faculty, Heads of Year, Careers Co-ordinator and chaired by the Director of Teaching and Learning.

St Catherine’s intention is to ensure all girls select subjects that are appropriate and provide the best grounding for future learning success. For some girls academic advancement is a suitable option and for others, a more conventional course of academic study will be the best learning for their following years at School.

The Academic Advancement Policy for students entering Year 10 and Year 11 in 2019 is available on mystcatherines.

Further information is available from Mr Robert Marshall, Director of Teaching and Learning.

No doubt this will be another busy Term, full steam ahead Year 9s.