Curriculum Matters

­­­­­­Year 12

In conversation with Year 12 this week I pointed out that even though it is 18 weeks until their first written HSC examination, they have only 10 weeks of class time left of their HSC courses.

This came as a shock to some, as they have not effectively utilised term planners or calendars as yet.

REMEMBER; in addition to texts, and staff expertise, the College provides access to the following resources; Edrolo, Elevate, Study Skills Handbook, and links via the HSC Curriculum Matters Google Classroom to support Year 12 in their preparation for the HSC and in class assessments.

The Trial examination timetable has been released this week to enable students to plan their study regime well in advance. All students should be focussing on what they want to achieve and be putting into place strategies to succeed. This may mean speaking with employers regarding changes to work hours to enable more time to implement their study plan

Year 11

All students are now half way through their Year 11 courses and are practising the skills required in Year 12. The focus, literacy and metacognitive skills required in these courses highlights the need for all Year 11 students to implement a comprehensive study regime and a proactive approach to learning.

Students are reminded that they are on the HSC pathway. This is the highest academic qualification that a secondary school student can acquire in NSW. Such a qualification not only requires commitment, hard work and an organised approach, but a supportive environment in which to grow. We at SJPC are committed to supporting students and are experienced in helping students take on this responsibility as learners. Use the resources we provide and ask for help when needed! 

Year 10

This is a term of contemplation and planning for Year 10 students. They have already begun thinking about their future as they attended the Careers Expo in Week 5 with their Homeroom team and Mr Corsalini.

In Week 8 they will be asked to complete a Personal Profile Reflection Booklet, which will require students to think about what they want to do with their life, what they want to study next year and where they see themselves in 2, 3 and 4 years’ time. Many are already finding the high expectations of Year 10, and meeting NESA requirements a challenge, so this is an opportunity for them to assess where they are and to set new goals.

In Week 10 this term students will be presented with their Curriculum Guide to Stage 6, with access to a website that has supporting materials, as well as opportunities to learn more about Stage 6 options and the different pathways of study available. Information regarding this process will continue to be forwarded via emails and the College Newsletter. 

Years 7 – 9 

Students in Years 7 – 9 have been receiving feedback and having conversations with their teachers about their learning and level of achievement. These conversations are vital in order to help them recognise their strengths, as well as identify areas that need further development.

This will enable new goals to be set and strategies for improvement to be implemented.

I encourage parents to also ask these questions of their children;

1. What are you learning? Why?
2. How are you doing?
3. How do you know?
4. How can you improve?
5. Where can you go for help?

Claudia Brown
Leader of Curriculum