Dear Parents, Carers and Community Members

This week during Year Assemblies we were delighted to be able to recognise the remarkable learning achievements of our Year 11 and 12 students throughout the first half of this year.

At St Clare’s I mentioned this in an article earlier this year, we believe that every student has the potential to succeed and achieve their goals.  We are committed to fostering an environment that nurtures their academic growth, personal development, and prepares our students for a bright future.

A key factor in this journey is recognising and celebrating the learning achievements of our students.  I want to take this opportunity commend the students who received awards this week for the dedication and commitment they have shown to their learning.  I also look forward to recognising and celebrating the achievements of our Year 7 - 10 students for Semester 1 at the start of Term 3 as they currently undertake formal examinations in several subject areas.

National Reconciliation Week

It is a time for all Australians to come together to learn about and celebrate the culture, history, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.  The week is an important opportunity to promote reconciliation, understanding, and respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.  It's a time for uniting our country in achieving reconciliation in Australia. 

This year's theme was Be a Voice for Generations, encouraging all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation.  The theme for this year provides a platform for Indigenous Australians to share their histories, cultures, and aspirations with the wider community.  Fostering reconciliation and healing, promoting cultural understanding and appreciation, acknowledging, and honouring the past.

School Attendance

Yes, school attendance is indeed important.  Regular and consistent attendance at school has numerous benefits for students, their academic progress, and their overall development.

What is the definition of good attendance?

 “The proportion of students attending 90% or more of the available schools’ days in a year.”
*The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA)

What does this mean, 90% of students attending school 90% of the time.  The concern for Australian schools is that attendance levels are not even close to this, in fact across Australian the percentage of students attending school 90% of the time is a low 51%.  At St Clare’s we are not at this level, but I have noticed that student attendance levels are not where they should be.

If a student misses one week of school that equates to 30 lessons.  A 90% attendance rate equated to 3.5 weeks (105 lessons) of school missed in one year.  So, imagine if a student’s attendance starts to fall below 90% and what impact it would/could have on their learning and personal development. 

Student attendance provides: 

1. Learning Opportunities: attending school regularly provides students with the opportunity to engage in structured learning environments where they can acquire knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and learn new concepts.  Regular attendance ensures that students do not miss out on valuable lessons and educational experiences. 

2. Academic Achievement: research consistently shows a strong correlation between regular school attendance and academic achievement.  Students who attend school consistently are more likely to perform well in exams, complete assignments on time, and grasp important concepts taught in class. 

3. Social and Emotional Development: school is not only about academics; it also plays a crucial role in a child's social and emotional development.  Regular attendance allows students to interact with peers, build relationships, develop social skills, and participate in extracurricular activities, which are all important aspects of their growth. 

4. Continuity of Learning: school attendance ensures continuity of learning.  Each day builds upon the previous one, and missing school frequently can lead to gaps in a student's understanding and knowledge.  Regular attendance helps students stay on track and progress with the curriculum. 

5. Future Opportunities: education is vital for opening doors to future opportunities.  Good attendance throughout school years sets a positive foundation for higher education, vocational training, and career prospects.  Many colleges, universities, and employers consider attendance records when making admissions or hiring decisions. 

6. Accountability and Responsibility: regular school attendance teaches students the values of accountability and responsibility.  By attending school consistently, students learn to manage their time, fulfill their obligations, and understand the importance of commitment. 

It is important for St Clare’s and parents/carers to work together and emphasise to our students the importance of regular attendance and address any barriers that may prevent students from attending school consistently.

‘Together with Christ we serve our community’

Inspired by GOSPEL VALUES and the practical examples of St Mary of The Cross MacKillop and St Clare of Assisi our Mission is to…

CONNECT LEARN ASPIRE RESPECT ENGAGE

Kind Regards

Phillip Gibney
Principal