News

Technology and Timeless Principles

This week, Year 6-12 families will receive documentation that clarifies the College’s refined policy in relation to mobile communication devices. I ask families to return the reply slip on the letter to the College by Friday 18 May.

Mobile communication devices have become an important and invaluable part of our modern lifestyle. When we talk about mobile communication devices we are referring to a range of devices, the most common being mobile phones. As a society, we are growing in our understanding of how technology can be used in different contexts, with varying purposes and with respect for, as well as presence to, others. These are all capabilities that are highly valued in life beyond school and in the world of work.

In a school community that fosters the competence and individuality of each child or adolescent, we are also seeing the many benefits of our Senior School BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy. The school also understands there are times when possession of these devices can provide a sense of safety and security while travelling to and from school.

I think it is critical to realise that technology and the array of mobile communication devices are our tools. They do not replace timeless principles and ways of being. In our Catholic school community we ask staff, students and parents to consider carefully the following when they use technological tools:

• Respect - How do our behaviours show that we respect one another?
• Intention - What is the learning intention?
• Presence - How do our behaviours show that we are present to others?
• Teacher Craft - How do I express my teacher craft or how does the situation allow me to express my craft?

A mobile communication device may only be used during school time at a teacher’s discretion. Students are required to turn off all notifications and keep mobile phones on silent and out of sight while at school. In the Middle School, students are asked to place their phone in their locker, unless required as part of the intentional learning program (as discerned by the respective teacher).

Listening to music in class on personal devices is not an EY- Year 12 endorsed activity unless it forms part of the teacher’s intentional learning program or a student’s individual learning plan.

Year 12 students may utilise their personal communication devices in the PRC Common Room during study periods to listen to music as an accompaniment to study. This would not occur at other times.

I thank students, staff and parents for assisting us to clarify the nuances of our policy in what is at the same time a space of great opportunity, but also with the potential for undermining the respect and presence we have to one another. 

I further look forward to our support of one another in assisting our young to harness the wonderful potential of technology, while also appreciating that it does not define who we are, but is only a tool that enhances our humanness, multi-faceted potential and life journey.  

Parent-teacher-student interviews

Next week Parent-teacher-student Interviews will take place, accentuating the relationships which are at the heart of our service to families. I trust the discussions which take place will assist in evolving the personalised learning of each child and adolescent in our care.

I encourage parents to consider the Parent Access Module (PAM) to prepare for these interviews, as explained by Deputy Principal, Liza Couzens in her article this week.   

We appreciate deeply at Tenison Woods College that every learner has a place, every learner has a pathway, every learner will shine. I hope the interviews will assist us in that challenge, while also providing an opportunity to celebrate the development achieved so far and how the individual student is part of our Tenison Woods College family.

Generations in Jazz Weekend

I congratulate the many staff, students and parents who participated enthusiastically in the Generations in Jazz Festival last weekend; an outstanding expression of jazz music, youthful energy and passionate learning. 

Special congratulations to the Concert Choir, Senior Vocal Ensemble and Big Band, who acquitted themselves so well and represented the College with distinction. A special thanks to our Head of Music, Beth Creedy, along with Marie Holmes and the Music Team for their passion, commitment and inspiration of our students. A wonderful experience of which to be a part.

Carpark Care

I remind families of the care required in the carpark area. The speed limit of 15km/hour is designed to assist with maintaining the safety of all community members. Likewise, the smooth running of the ‘kiss and drop’ area depends on the courtesy of all users to keep the traffic moving. Should children not be at the ‘kiss and drop’ area ready for pick up, I ask parents to complete another cycle of the area to ensure others can collect their waiting children.

Food Allergies – awareness, avoidance and action

Food Allergy Week runs from 13-19 May 2018 and calls on all Australians to Be Aware and Show You Care by getting involved with activities. Living with the risk of a severe allergic reaction, or anaphylaxis, takes planning, diligence and clear communication. At Tenison Woods College we believe that our community has a significant role in supporting those who live with the risk, so that through awareness, education and training they and their families can lead normal, healthy lives.

The website http://www.allergyfacts.org.au offers support for individuals, parents and carers of people living with this risk, supporting the critical more personalised treatment and care. We encourage anyone who suspects they may have an allergy or those who have already been diagnosed to consult their allergist, immunologist, paediatrician or GP for personalised treatment and care. This includes regular follow-up so that they can access up to date information on managing their risk of anaphylaxis, and communicating that information to our staff so that our community can support them in the best possible way.

Parish Planned Giving Rebate

I remind families that parents contributing to the St Paul’s Planned Giving may claim a rebate from Tuition Fees of 50% of their contribution up to a maximum claim of $750. Official Parish receipts are to be presented to the Business Manager after the 30 June 2018 for a deduction to be made.

Staff Professional Development Days – 7 and 8 June

Staff are looking forward to the staff professional development days Thursday 7 and Friday 8 June, when they will devote time to the learning and assessment experiences prepared for students as well as the wellbeing approach at the school.

I trust students and parents will experience the benefits of the days through our service to students and families throughout the College. I remind families that these days are student-free days. 

God Bless,

David Mezinec | Principal

CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO NEWSLETTER