Dear McAuley Families

It is good to see a predictable rhythm start to appear around school. As we cycle through our first 10-day timetable we can iron out small bumps, clashes and classes.  Again, I implore you all to be sure that your sons and daughters (no matter what year level!) have good rest, sound organization and study habits.  This builds comfort, lessens anxiety, and brings better results.

Our Archdiocese is receiving quite a deal of media attention over the Bold Goals that have been set and the standardization of methodology and instruction across our schools. The first goal “Every student should be a competent reader” has been realized at McAuley through our structured phonics approach in lower primary school through InitiaLit programs K-2, MiniLIt Sage and MulitiLit in higher levels.

We know that efficient reading and comprehension sets learners up for success.  Our early intervention strategies work to be sure that difficulties are recognized early and quickly worked with to improve understanding, build skills and results. Science tells us that sound skills in reading has many benefits:

1. It reduces stress and helps relaxation.
2. Improves memory and concentration.
3. Strengthens writing skills and expands vocabulary.
4. Enhances knowledge, and,
5. Increases imagination and creativity.

Direct instruction methods are being used in our classrooms also.  Teachers last year and this year are undertaking many hours of professional learning in direct instruction methodology.  As a school we will work on introducing facets of direct instruction through “High Impact Teaching Strategies”. Your children may already be talking to you about teachers “checking for understanding” or completing “daily reviews” which are short, sharp ways of cementing facts and learning.  These scientifically backed approaches mirror the leading-edge work that is happening in Year 11 in Virtual Learning where we are providing expert teachers to ensure high level outcomes in our Stage 6 classes.

These are exciting times for us at McAuley, made even more special by the fact that we already have a strong reputation for the care and concern we show for our students and community.

Information will be coming home to make clear our expectations around uniform in the coming days.  These revisions were approved at our last Community Council meeting last year and by the staff at our meeting this week.  There is a focus on safety – especially shoes, jewellery and make up.  We need to be sure that our students are wearing appropriate and safe apparel.  Comfortable shoes are good, but we also need to be sure that they are safe to run and play, sew, cook, dig and mix chemicals in.  Leather runners are preferred in Secondary for many practical classes. We will support families by sending home the approved policy with easy-to-understand graphics so that you can assist at home with correct uniform.

Grateful thanks to Miss Mason and her helpers for the work that went into arranging our Opening School Mass on Wednesday. The celebration was a great beginning to our school year. This year will bring many firsts and celebrations as we move into an exciting future.

Mary our Mother, look after us.

Eamonn Moore

Principal