Technology can be a wonderful learning tool and way to connect with people. There are many rules that need to be followed to ensure safety of everyone while using the technology. St Andrews has a code of expectations in regards to the use of technology at school.

The following are some basic rules that need to be followed:

1. No student or teachers’ photo is to be taken without consent. 
2. No image of students or teachers are to be put on social media without consent
3. Any abuse, misuse of images, bullying online or images of a sexual nature must be reported to the office immediately. 
4. Uploading or sharing of images and inappropriate content without consent will have serious consequences
5. On the Junior campus, technology is not to be used during breaks until the end of the break when class schedules can be checked.
6. Technology should only be used in class at the direction of the teacher.

Students must make responsible decisions about the use of technology. Ultimately the person who pays for the service/ device has the final legal responsibility for what happens online. It is essential that parents set guidelines and monitor all online use of technology.

WHAT’S IN THE PLANNER

The BIG 5

To be your best self you should combine healthy eating, daily exercise, adequate sleep, drinking water and a positive attitude.

If we do these 5 things, we have a better chance of having great wellbeing.

What’s the difference between a fixed and growth mindset? 

Fixed mindsets are about proving, they only look at performance not effort, you feel that there is nothing you can do to change your ability. 

Hard work and effort = lack of ability

Growth mindsets rely on efforts being made and you trying different things and learning.  

Hard work and effort = achievement 

As learners we need to learn to Prioritise. Making a list of MUSTS and OPTIONS helps us prioritise what needs to happen in our life. Must might be school work or family obligations; options might be social media and TV.

Getting balance in your life is important to your overall wellbeing. Four things that help with this are healthy eating, daily exercise, adequate sleep and having a positive attitude. Have a look at ways you can develop these areas in your planner.

Wellbeing fitness challenge

Thinking of others- Having positive vibes

Tell me more- Interested listening

Feel good menu- doing feel good activities

Self-image- positive messages to yourself

Others matter- Acts of kindness

Aimless writing- clear you mind by writing everything down 

God Bless

Mr Nicholas Thrum
Assistant Principal

Brainstorm Productions

Brainstorm Productions is a theatre group that has been performing plays at St Andrews College for many years, enhancing our Wellbeing Program. Through their performances, they are able to empower students with practical strategies to strengthen their mental health, resilience and wellbeing. In 2023, Brainstorm Productions will present three different plays: Cyberia, The Flipside and Wired. Aspects of the plays will be discussed in Wellbeing lessons after the play. 

Cyberia - Friday March 10 - Year 8 (period 1-2) and Year 9 (period 3-4)

‘Cyberia’ uses real student experiences to inform students about mental health, relationships and online behaviour. ​​This play will help educate students about the complex issues surrounding the misuse of technology, and the damage caused by cyberbullying. St Andrews College is committed to making students aware of what bullying is, as well as the short term and long term consequences in our community.

The Flipside - Friday May 5 - Year 7 (period 1-2) 

‘The Flipside’ will educate students about what is humorous, toxic, private, humiliating, informative, safe or appropriate online. The performance encourages students to think critically about their online values and behaviour and provides strategies for empathy, resilience, help-seeking and positive bystander behaviour.

Wired - Friday November 10 - Year 10 (period 1-2)

‘Wired’ tackles some of the big issues affecting Australian students, including social isolation, bullying, online safety, school stressors, family relationships and pressure from social media. It addresses barriers to help-seeking and provides strategies for resilience, problem-solving, goal-setting and positive mental health.

Principal’s Awards

Congratulations to the following students who have received Principal’s Awards:

Second Principal’s Awards

Congratulations to the following students who have received their second Principal’s Award:

House Cup Points Update

The updated totals after the Swimming Carnival are:

Bennelong: 18, 020

Chang: 14, 069

Frances: 15, 589

Gould: 14, 244

scooper@parra.catholic.edu.au 

Mrs Sue Cooper
Leader of Wellbeing and Learning

As we head into the last weeks of Term One I wanted to take a moment to recognise the amazing efforts of our Peer Support Leaders. They have been working tirelessly to support and guide our new Year 7  students. Providing a listening ear and being a friendly face, our Peer Support Leaders and Peer Support Assistants have truly gone above and beyond to make our school community a better place. Many Thanks to you:

B5 (B4)

1. Amik Marok, Brianna Faorlin, ,Ishakaj Laetus
2. Lorraine Layug, Neeti Patel, Tanvi Kumar
3. Avni Kumar, Nithin Srinivasan, Garv Aggarwal

B11 (B8)

1. Shalynn Charan, Sakina Ganiwalla, 
2. Sharlene San Pedro, Roylan Lingutla, Lily Bayrich
3. Mackenzie Jones, Cameron Callaghan, Liana Banares

C8 (C6)

1. Matilda Adamecki, Rachel Laycock, Gabriella Miranda
2. Freby Julit, Daniella Rodriguez, Jayden Looker
3. Lana Barrameda, Jelena Wong, Isabella Cazar

C9 (C10)

1. Avani Shrestha, Vivian Menon, Umang Hirani
2. Jaeda Liao, Mary Grace, Ava Bylsma
3. Adam Noori, Danielle Amabile, Jayda Amabile 

F3 (F7)

1. Ben Reyes, Aiyesha Susi, Jayda Vakai
2. Micho Bonete, Makoi Malual, Julio Tatupu
3. Jazze Roy, Vrinda Narayan ,Raedan De Guzman

F5 (F8)

1. Angelina Khalil, Gerogene Gheim, Krisha Jeshani
2. Tewedros Worku, Alexandra Marasigan, Irish Raymundo
3. Dominic Tatupu, Priscilla Kubik, Maseanne Tuinauvai

G10 (G8)

1. Christabel Gobrial, Suwanthi Edirisinghe, Isabella Elias
2. Anthony Pilayre, Leila Crisafulli-Kefu, Vesna Kenny
3. Maxine Gesilva, Hans Abedo, Reuben Chouffot

G11 (G9)

1. Gabrielle Gonzales,  Jobella De la Cruz, Ada Ding
2. Abbey Rafidi, Elyscia Barret, Isabel Mitchell
3. Jai Abadiano, GianCarlo Samuel, Simone Pathak

As we approach the end of the term, it is crucial that Year Ten remain focused and prepared for the upcoming assessments. Every task is an opportunity to learn skills and knowledge. To help develop focus on study, our pastoral lesson this week has been discussing the importance of setting goals. Long term, short term, and daily goals are all essential for achieving success in all areas of life. By identifying what we want to accomplish and breaking it down into manageable steps, we can stay motivated, focused, and on track. 

Lastly, I would like to congratulate our Learning Group Leaders for their support and dedication to helping the Learning Group run smoothly each morning.

F3 Elexis Stone and Aiyesha Susi

B5 Lorraine Layug and Rhea Kumar

G10 Garry Singh and Suwanthi Edirisinghe

F5 Lexy Marasigan and Tewodros Worku

C8 Gabriella Miranda and Matilda Adamecki

B11 Isa Sarmed and Lily Bayrich

G11 Giancarlo Samuel and Gabrielle Gonzales

C9 Isabelle Metcalfe and Raphaella Thimipoulos-Wilson

Kind Regards,

Andrew Nisbet
Leader of Learning Wellbeing Year 10
Leader of Wellbeing Junior Campus

Dear Parents/Carers and Students of Year 9, 

Year 9 are now at the midpoint of the first term and it has been wonderful to see them engage in their learning and take part in the many opportunities that we have on offer here at St Andrews College. 

Please allow me to introduce our wonderful Year 9 Learning Advisors who will be a source of support over the year: 

9B3: Mrs Anita Weaver 

9B7: Miss Emma Webb 

9C1: Mrs Deb Rosinski 

9C3: Mr James Pola and Miss Emma Webb 

9F1: Mrs Theresa Ciantar 

9F2: Mrs Alpana Sandha and Miss Emma Webb

9G5: Mr Nathan Weaver 

9G16: Mr Duncan Dewar 

As we enter the second half of the term, it's important to remember that this is a crucial time for your academic progress. Year 9 marks a significant point of your secondary education in terms of your future pathways and vocation. 

Here are some tips to ensure you make the most of this year: 

• Stay organised: Use your College planner to map out assessment tasks and keep track of your homework and due dates. This will help you to manage your time effectively. 
• Set goals: Set realistic and achievable goals for yourself. An example of a goal could include improving study habits or getting a certain grade in a subject. This will help you to stay motivated and focused. 
• Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Remember to speak to your teachers if you are unsure about classwork, homework and assessment tasks. You have lots of people here to support you. 

Elective Changes 

Students in Year 9 can now no longer request to change their electives. We are now half way through Term 1 and with assessments being handed out and due, students must now stay in their selected subjects. If you are finding it hard to complete work in a subject, speak with your teacher and ask what you can do to make sure you learn and understand the content. 

Remember, with hard work, determination, and a positive attitude, you can achieve great things.

Ms Alicia Harwood 
Leader of Wellbeing Year 9 

Dear Year 8 Students and Parents/Guardians,

We hope this newsletter finds you well and that the start of the new school year has been a success so far. As we move further into the term, I wanted to remind you about the importance of maintaining a correct school uniform and update you on how our Year 8 students have been doing thus far.

Firstly, I’m happy to report that our Year 8 students have been representing the school with pride, both inside and outside the classroom. We've received positive feedback from teachers and staff about their conduct, behaviour, and academic progress. We encourage all students to continue to put their best foot forward and take advantage of the many opportunities available to them.

I also want to remind students and parents/guardians about the importance of wearing the correct school uniform. A neat, clean and tidy uniform is a key part of the school's identity and promotes a sense of community and belonging. Please make sure that all students have the correct uniform, including the school blazer, skirt length, and shoes. We appreciate your support in ensuring that students come to school dressed appropriately.

Lastly, we want to remind all students and parents/guardians to stay engaged and involved with the school community. Attend parent-teacher conferences, school events, and stay up-to-date on school news and updates through this newsletter, Compass and our Social Media pages. We're all in this together, and your support is crucial to our success.

Thank you, and we look forward to a successful and enjoyable year ahead.

Sincerely,

Jarryd Leaves
Leader of Wellbeing - Year 8

Hello year 7 students, parents and guardians,

We have now hit the halfway point of Year 7’s first term at St Andrews College. Students would have received a couple of assessments already. It is important that students are organised and work on these tasks day by day. If students are struggling with their assessments, they can speak with their teacher or can come and see me.

Camp

Camp is on Monday 6th and Tuesday 7th of March. 

Students are required to be at school by 7:00am for a 7:30am departure time. (This time has changed from the note)

Students should arrive back to school by 2:45pm on Tuesday. 

I hope everyone is excited and eager for this experience. Students will be experiencing activities such as kayaking, abseiling and rock climbing. 

Please make sure you pack everything you need, students have access to the list on Google Classroom. 

Please ensure you also pack a raincoat or poncho as it may rain

Medical

Any students who take any medication throughout the day must bring this in a ziplock bag with instructions of administration. 

Uniform Expectations:

All students must wear the correct socks and have a school bag. Please rectify this if you do not have either item. 

Girls’ summer uniform (Terms 1 & 4): 

Black, polished, hard leather upper, lace-up school shoes with no heels (WH&S requirement); 

Sky blue ankle socks (worn above the ankle) or school stockings; 

School kilt (below the knee cap); 

Short-sleeve embroidered school blouse 

Girls trousers (optional)

Boys’ summer uniform (Terms 1 & 4): 

Black, polished, hard leather upper, lace-up school shoes (WH&S requirement); 

Black or taupe socks; 

taupe trousers, with a black belt; 

Short-sleeve embroidered school shirt, worn out, with top button undone 

Boys shorts (optional)

Makeup: 

False eye-lashes, make up, coloured nail polish and acrylic nails are not to be worn at school. The College reserves the right to have the student remove the makeup, nail polish or fake eyelashes. 

Hair: 

Students are to ensure their hairstyle conforms to the following: 

- hair should be neatly cut, and maintained at all times 

- undercut styles are not acceptable, nor are tracks or lines 

- dramatic layered effect of levels is not permitted 

- hair should not be overly styled by use of hair products 

- hair is not to be tinted or coloured 

- long hair is not acceptable for boys, nor are long strands of hair that cover the face or touch the collar 

- hair must not be shaved, nor extreme cut with clippers, Number 2 is the shortest acceptable length 

- Girls hair must be tied back at all times – navy or black hair ties/scrunchies only 

- Headbands may be used but they must be black or navy in colour 

- Boys must be clean shaven at all times. 

- Mullets and other fad haircuts are not permitted

Remember that B1 is always open for any student that wishes to discuss anything.

Mr. Kharl Carlos

Leader of Wellbeing - Year 7 

Dear parents/guardians, 

It has been a great start to the year in regards to sport. On the 17th February we were fortunate enough to hold an entire school swimming carnival at Charlie Lowes Emerton. 

A big congratulations to all the students who participated in a swimming event or a novelty event. It was great to see all students get involved and participating. 

Congratulations to the students who have progressed through to PDSSSC swimming which will be held on Thursday 9th March at Sydney Olympic Park, Homebush. 

Congratulations to the following age swimming champions- 12 year GIRLS-  Sarah Jane Noori, 12 year BOYS- Sage Cheng , 13 year GIRLS- Ellie Sibir , 13 year BOYS- Marko Vidovic , 14 year GIRLS- Gabriella Azar , 14 year BOYS- Harrison Green , 15 year Girls – Cassandra Caraig , 16 year Girls- Issabella Narayan, 16 year BOYS- Youssef Tannous , 17 year GIRLS- Jade Kember, 17 year BOYS – Jackson Sibir, 18 year BOYS- Loudonald Go. 

In softball news, Amelia Manks Pitched and played 2nd Base and batted great in 3 games before the rain set in on the 14th February. Amelia was selected to represent the NSWCCC Softball team and is really looking forward to competing in the NSW All Schools State Championships 13th March. Best of luck to Amelia.

Upcoming competitions

Have you considered entering Operation art?  Students may submit artworks up to A2 in size in any chosen medium. (As long as it is flat) They can be in any theme however, we encourage students to create artworks that are uplifting, inspiring and positive. Artworks are due to Visual Arts teachers by Week 11 3rd April. Feel free to speak to any of our lovely Art Teachers to discuss your ideas or get feedback!

Upcoming Events

​​On the 7th of March, Year 11 Photography students will be travelling to Cockatoo Island and Circular Quay to photograph the built and natural environment. Students will use their newly learnt skills and techniques to capture the raw beauty of the UNESCO heritage site.

Cockatoo Island was Australia’s shipbuilding and ship repairs site from 1857-1991. In 1913 it became the official dockyard of the Royal Australian Navy. This Island has a rich history and will be the perfect setting for Year 11 student’s photographic series. Student photographs of Cockatoo Island and Circular Quay will be published in the Week 8 newsletter- stay tuned! 

Year 8 Cubism 

Year 8 Visual Arts students have been exploring the art movement called Cubism, pioneered by the artist Pablo Picasso. The Cubist painters rejected the idea that art should copy nature, or that they should adopt the traditional techniques of perspective.They instead wanted to emphasise the two dimensionality of their surface and aimed to show multiple angles, geometric forms and fractured objects in their work.

Our mini Picassos have created their own cubist inspired artwork featuring chairs. Students have enjoyed working with coloured pastels and charcoals to create their artworks. They have learnt about composition in abstract and cubist artworks and have developed skills in their own art making practice.

8VISAF Picasso’s Chair - Still Life Drawing Practise

Our mini Picasso’s of class 8VISAF experimented with drawing still life in class this week. To make this more challenging; students started by drawing two different styles of chairs placed in the centre of the room and then had to move positions and draw these from a different perspective. The class had a great time rearranging furniture and attempting something new. Many students found this task challenging, however they pushed themselves to try their very best. We look forward to seeing these being brought to life with added colour using the mediums of pastel and charcoal in our lessons this week.

Year 7 Popular Culture

Year 7 Visual Arts students are currently working on their Pop Art drawings of food items. We have explored the work of both Claes Oldenburg and Monica Ajenjo. With Valentine’s day recently happening Mrs Psaila’s class had decided to draw popular food items related to St Valentines day. Students drew ice creams, macaroons, cakes and a variety of other sweets and treats. Together we practised drawing using the grid method and colouring in using burnishing and blending techniques. The results speak for themselves and we are truly amazed by the talents that we have in the Year 7 cohort. 

Year 10 Visual Arts
Collaborative Artworks

Year 10 Visual Arts students are exploring themes of ‘suburbia’ this term. For their first artmaking task, students were able to select other members of the class to form a group of four. This collaborative artwork explores the suburbia through a “window”, inspired by the artmaking of Jeanie Baker. Each artist is creating a window pane, which when placed together, forms a completed window. Students in their concepts explore past, present and future as well as their chosen art medium in order to convey their ideas to an audience. 

Year 11 Photography

Year 11 Photography students have been exploring the capabilities of DSLR Cameras in class. In preparation for their upcoming excursion students have been experimenting with shutter speed and depth of field in class time. Shutter speed is the amount of time the camera shutter is left open, this exposes light onto the camera sensor. Essentially, it’s how long your camera spends whilst taking or processing a photo. This has a few important effects on how your images will appear (crisp or blurry). Collectively students have been able to work out the settings required to capture a movement. Each student was able to freeze a movement or motion creating a crisp image as seen in the images of the strawberry dropping into a glass of water.

Mrs Psaila
Visual Arts Teacher

Mrs Claudia Harris
Leader of Learning Visual Arts

Mrs Shandel Kemal
Visual Arts Teacher

The Year 12 PDHPE 2023 class attended an excursion at the Australia College of Physical Education on Thursday 23rd February. This excursion allowed students to put into practice what they have been learning throughout their Core HSC Unit - Factors Affecting Performance. This excursion allowed students the opportunity to participate in practical workshops and learn from College educators to develop and enhance their understanding of this unit. Students participated in two workshops:

Workshop 1

In this workshop the students reviewed Energy Systems and how they are used in a sporting context. They also took part in a range of testing as either a subject or an assessor. Some of the tests included a Sprint, Vertical Jump & Coordination testing for the ATP-PC System, Wingate Bike Protocol testing for the Glycolytic System, Sub-maximal Heart Rate testing for the Aerobic System and a BONUS - VO2 Max Test (Treadmill).

All the students participated in the Wingate Bike test which required them to sprint on a bike at a level 10 resistance for 30 seconds. Matt Issa and Deng Joseph participated in the VO2 Max Test with Matt reaching level 14 and Deng reaching level 21. Nick Boustani also recorded the fastest 20 metre sprint time so far this year. Everyone could feel the lactic acid building up in their legs and were definitely challenged.

Workshop 2

In this workshop the students learnt about Principles of Training in ACPE's performance gym. Students analysed how the principles of training can be applied to both aerobic and resistance training. The students were able to experience the free and fixed weight machines learning about the muscles involved and participated. 

Overall it was a great day for the students to apply their knowledge and we look forward to continuing this relationship with ACPE for our future year 12 students.

Mr Kharl Carlos
Year 12 PDHPE Teacher

St Andrews College, Marayong has a rich tradition in showcasing performance for our community. 

Each year, there are a number of performance opportunities presented to our students that are permanent fixtures on the school calendar. 

Creative and Performing Arts students are encouraged to embrace these opportunities to better extend their learning in the field of showcase, presentation and performance. Music students are also given opportunities to perform at Assemblies, Mass, Liturgies, School Retreats, Graduation ceremonies, Anzac Day services, Information evenings, Project compassion fundraisers and more.

This year, we have introduced group vocal tuition as part of our Music programme. Miss Le, who is the newest member of the music department, is currently running after school classes for interested vocalists in years 11 and 12. Students in years 7 to 10 are attending Monday and Wednesday sessions during recess times on a weekly basis. These students will feature in many of our performance showcases as well as enhance our singing during Mass and other school events. 

Please see or email Mr. Chiappetta or Miss Le if you are interested in these free and dynamic vocal sessions. 

St Andrews College Performance Showcase Dates 2023

Please see or email Mr. Chiappetta should you have any questions or concerns regarding the audition process leading up to our performance events.

Term 1

Jazz Music & Drama Showcase

Year 11 Music and Pre-show Drama showcase - Free entry

Week 9, Tuesday the 28th of March in the St. JP 2 centre from 4.30 -7pm.

Term 2

Junior CAPA showcase

(Year 7-10 Music, Art and Drama class work showcase – Free entry)

Week 5, Thursday 23/5/23 in the junior campus learning from 4.30-7pm.

Unity Day Cultural Music and Dance Performance Showcase

Live streamed during school hours 11.30 – 12.30pm & 1.30 -2.30pm

Week 9, Friday 23/6/23

Term 3

Stage 6 Major works Showcase

(CAPA and TAS major work projects live and on display - Free entry)

Week 5, Thursday 17/8/23 from 5-7pm

Year 7-11 Drama Production 

(Week 8, Thursday the 7th and Friday the 8th of September)

Term 4

CAN & Christmas combined showcase

(Student acts, staff acts, Vet Entertainment students backstage, food trucks, fireworks and more)

Week 10, Tuesday 12/12/23 from 4pm – 8.30pm)

Year 7 Digital Technology students have been learning about how computers work via inputs and outputs. In order to differentiate between devices that specifically use inputs, outputs or both, they were asked to test their knowledge through a game of ‘Input Output SNAP!’. By the end of the week, Year 7 were confident in being able to understand how computers receive inputs from users, process the information and display our intended result as an output. 

Year 9 Information Software & Technology have been working on their Digital Media unit throughout this Term. This unit involves learning about a range of digital media types and the software that is most appropriate for the manipulation, design and production of projects such as digital magazines, videos and graphics. 

 This Term, Year 9 IST have been learning the ins and outs of Adobe Photoshop, specifically how to manipulate digital images using the software. Their first formative task asked students to gather images of fruits and vegetables and manipulate them into a cartoon character in order to showcase their newfound Photoshop skills. 

Year 9 will now be moving on to learn Adobe Illustrator in the coming weeks to develop their skills in a wider range of digital media software, specifically looking at vector graphics. 

Shanai Mifsud
Technologies Teacher

Year 8 students have been learning textiles skills as part of their Technology Mandatory course. Within the textiles unit, students are able to learn about a range of sewing techniques such as using sewing machines, fabric dyeing techniques, pattern construction and utilising diverse hand sewing stitches for both decorative and practical purposes. 

For this lesson, students were introduced to the colouration and decoration techniques that they can use for the construction of their pyjama shorts. Some of the techniques that they have completed include using Shiva Oil sticks, Derwent Inktense Pencils, Marbling, as well as cutting out their patterns for their Pyjama Shorts. 

On Friday 17th February the Year 11 Hospitality classes had their first service period for the College and what a fantastic job they did. Throughout the day Staff commended the students on what outstanding service they provided as well as being so professional and polite. The students served the staff morning tea, lunch, as well as taking orders of tea and coffee.

I would like to thank Mrs Van Der Werf, Mr McLoughlin and Mrs Welch for their assistance in ordering and logistics for the day. Mr Robson, Mrs Carlos and Mrs Thomson for their assistance with running the service period and providing great support to the students. Miss Nikitovic for her efforts and hard work in organising a great swimming carnival where all students were able to participate and achieve their personal best.

Lastly, I would like to acknowledge and thank the following Year 11 Hospitality students who continue to do more and go beyond. 

• Melody Attard
• Moses Badelles
• Jasper Cortez
• Eric Forcadilla
• Kelsie Guerrero
• Amber Kahlon
• Joy Legge
• Maximus Lovering
• Nywere Majak
• Tyler Mates
• Chelsey-Nicole Caraig
• Isabella Hanna
• Marley Kozak
• Joey-Anne Lopez
• Jelaine Magayaga
• Holly McLoughlin
• Precious Nakazzi
• Ofa Pangiaketau
• Brooke Robinson
• Chloe Smith
• Arianna Tuineau
• Elena Xiberras

Keep up the fantastic work.

This is a call out to students in years 8, 9 and 10 who are interested in being part of our F1 Cars in Schools Program.

The F1 in Schools STEM Challenge provides an exciting and engaging experience for students through the captivating appeal of Formula 1. Through the challenge, teams of students use Computer Aided Design (CAD) to design, analyse, manufacture, test and race model F1 cars manufactured from a block of balsa wood. The cars race on a 20m track powered by CO2 canisters and reach speeds of up to 80km/h. 

The program allows students to learn about physics, aerodynamics, design processes, manufacturing, marketing, graphics, sponsorship, teamwork, communication, media, careers, finance and to bring all these together practically and creatively to compete with their peers. 

Below is a link to a video which will show you what the program will look like.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUz4z4Wzgvc

If this is something that you would like to take part in please complete the google form attached below. The form must be completed by 3pm on Friday the 10th of March.

Please note that spots are limited so once they are filled you won’t be able to partake in this challenge.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx-KdvG10Puhcsix1w0CnSvWhO1LXqf08CxjPNpgK78eVv-g/viewform?usp=pp_url

Weeks 6-8 will focus on verbs, auxiliary verbs and adverbs.

Your added support in having conversations with your child about the grammar focus, would assist us in reinforcing these basic skills that students can carry with them throughout life.

Mr Duncan Dewar and Ms Linda Hicks
Literacy Coordinators

NAPLAN 2023

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a point in time assessment of literacy and numeracy skills that are essential for every child to progress in their learning growth. Students in Year 7 and 9 participate in the annual NAPLAN tests in writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy.

In 2023, St Andrews College students in Years 7 and 9 will be participating in NAPLAN online on:

• Wednesday 15 March - Writing (Year 7 and 9), Reading (Year 7 and 9)
• Thursday 16 March - Conventions of Language (Year 7 and 9), Numeracy, (Year 7 and 9)

Full details for students and parents will be published via Compass in the lead up to these test dates. Successful preparation tips are also contained in the letter.

Naplan results were previously reported using a system of Bands, however, from 2023, this system will be replaced by one with Four (4) achievement descriptors. These are:

• Exceeding 
• Strong 
• Developing 
• Needs additional support. 

The descriptors for each category will make it clear to parents what their child’s literacy and numeracy skills are at the time of NAPLAN testing, and support discussions with their school on their child’s progress. 

Further details can be found via the NAPLAN Online Information for parents and carers page.

Study Skills and Tips for Successful Study

Studying well is a skill that can be practised and improved. 

Below are some tips that will help you make the most of your study time.

Knowing that studying involves a dedicated amount of your time, effort and concentration is important when setting yourself up to study well.

Top 10 Study Tips

1. DECIDE.  Make a real decision that you are going to study.
2. TIME.  Create a schedule that indicates WHEN you will study.
3. SPACE.  Create a dedicated study SPACE for you to use.
4. DISTRACTIONS. Remove all distractions from your study space.
    No Phones or social media
    No Music
    No TV
    No Procrastinating
5. BUDDIES. Join up with a friend(s) who is equally determined to study.
6. SLEEP. Keep up regular sleep patterns. Approx 8 hours per night.
7. NUTRITION. Maintain a balanced diet with plenty of water.
    Avoid caffeine and energy drinks
    Avoid high sugar, high salt, high fat snacks
8. EXERCISE. Keep up the physical movement.
    About 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day
9. FAMILY. This is your most important support system. Speak with them
10. PRAYER. Take time to pray and reflect. This will help keep you centred.

 Highly Effective Study Techniques

1. Write summary notes. Keep your summary notes indexed in folders.
2. Write your notes. Handwriting is essential in your exams - practise it.
3. Complete Past Papers. Do this under timed, exam conditions.
    Ask a peer to mark your work and provide their feedback.
4. Try the “Refinement Process”, where you explain how to do something to another person.
5. Adopt “Spaced Practice”, where you break study up into smaller chunks over a longer period of time.
6. Experiment with “Retrieval Practice”, where you write down all that you can recall about a particular topic.
7. Complete Review and Extension questions from your textbooks.
8. Access other textbooks and resources. Extend your level of understanding.
9. Complete on-line revision quizzes. These can provide instant results/feedback 

Visit the NESA site for more useful information:

• Past exam papers which include marking guidelines and marker notes
• HSC Study Guide  - detailed study resource

STUDY DON’Ts…

1. Don’t wait until the last moment to start - Cramming is not a successful strategy.
2. Don’t pretend that you have studied. Planning to study is not studying.
3. Don’t ignore weekends - these can be used as study time also.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You are supported and assistance is available.

College Leadership Team

College Leaders of Learning - KLA

College Leaders of Learning

Leaders of Learning - Wellbeing