Finishing Year 10
At the end of last term, the Year 10 boys proudly stood by their Personal Projects which completely filled the Dickinson Centre this year. The evening was well attended by parents, other family members and friends who were impressed and delighted by the level of maturity of learning represented by the varied projects. Dr McEwan opened the event and for the full two hours of the Showcase, visitors did their best to take in as many projects as they could. Ms Cook-Casey and Ms Taylor were no doubt exhausted by the conclusion of the evening but they and all the supervisors were thrilled with the standard of the event. The River Cruise following the evening was an opportunity for the boys to let off some energy on the dance floor on the beautiful Swan River. The boys are to be highly commended for their behaviour on both occasions. They expressed their appreciation of the time given up by their teachers. This is a wonderful trait that Scotch boys share - they take the time to say thank you.
Photos from the Year 10 River Cruise
Year 11 and 12 Conferences
Orientation for Year 10 boys moving to Year 11 and for Year 11 boys moving to Year 12 took place in the first week of term in the form of a formal conference. During the conferences all House Heads met with the boys to develop their targets for the coming year . They have discussed a variety of topics such as developing an effective study routine, managing stress, finding a good balance that includes taking responsibility for personal health and the benefits of activities such as yoga and pilates. As they enter a period of life where they take more responsibility for their actions, they address other areas such as driving with consideration and social choices. Bonding as Upper School students is a positive outcome of the two days, as they cook and eat together and consider what lies ahead of them.
Professional Development
Over the past few weeks and during the holidays, teachers have continued to develop professionally, taking advantage of a number of learning opportunities. Dr McEwan undertook a China Tour for School Leaders travelling with a number of Western Australian educators. Ms Gooding, Mr Scaife, Mrs Kerrigan and Mrs Scaife travelled to Hong Kong to take part in outstanding International Baccalaureate workshops. Mrs Gray attended a workshop in early childhood learning, Mrs Longhurst attended a day workshop with Anne Bayetto and Mr Menage undertook training in a workshop on the promotion of student well-being using technologies. Mr Stewart and Mrs McNally joined the 2013 Scotland Study Tour as part of a larger group of educators visiting schools and attending conferences throughout Scotland to explore the latest developments in early childhood education. In August a group of Arts staff attended IB workshops in Singapore and Mr Burt and Ms Mullins attended an Enhancing Pastoral Care and Student Wellbeing conference in Melbourne.
Jan Skidmore
Director of Teaching and Learning
