Learning & Teaching (AP)
Welcome Back to McAuley Catholic College
I’m sure our staff and students had a fantastic break because the energy levels are high as we kick off the 2025 academic year! It is great to be back – not only are we excited for the new term, but our school's growth has led to extra modular classrooms being installed, furnished, and ready for use.
Welcome back to every student, whether you are just beginning your journey at McAuley or returning as a seasoned member of our family. We are excited to have you join us and look forward to supporting your growth.
The start of a new school year brings with it a unique vibrancy. Reconnecting with familiar faces, meeting new peers, and reuniting with friends create a truly special atmosphere. Our gathering last Wednesday was filled with palpable excitement. This time of year is about reconnecting, setting fresh goals, and starting another chapter of learning and personal growth.
Focus on Staff Preparation Days
During our staff preparation sessions at the start of the term, we concentrated on two key areas:
- Leveraging Data to Meet Our Students' Needs:
We examined various strategies to effectively use data, allowing us to tailor our teaching methods to better support the diverse needs of our students.
- Enhancing Consistency in Reading:
Recognising the critical role of literacy, we focused on strategies to boost students' vocabulary, improve reading fluency, and support phonological awareness. This will be an area of focus for our year 7 and 8 students. Literacy skills — including reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and critical thinking—are vital across all subjects. We count on your collaboration in embedding explicit literacy strategies throughout every Key Learning Area (KLA) to ensure our students' success.
During these professional learning sessions, our teachers explored various strategies to enhance student outcomes further and cultivate a unified teaching environment.
Re-Introducing Our School Musical
At our first assembly, we were thrilled to announce the re-introduction of our school musical in 2025! This year's production will be performed in Term 2, carrying an exciting theme: Mid Summers Musical – an 80s Shakespeare reboot. We are calling on all students with a passion for the performing arts—whether your interest lies in acting, singing, dancing, or working behind the scenes—to seize this opportunity and get involved. This musical is a fantastic chance to showcase your talents, embrace creativity, and participate in an unforgettable celebration of the arts at our school. Pay attention to the student memos and at assemblies for more information.
Celebrating Our Successes
This week, we will hold our High Achievers' assembly to honour the exceptional accomplishments of our 2024 dux and to celebrate the dedicated efforts of our Year 12 cohort. This event is a testament to our student's hard work and commitment. I encourage everyone to fully engage in their learning journeys, pursue their goals passionately, and strive for excellence inside and outside the classroom.
As we move into this new academic year, let us embrace the opportunities and challenges ahead. Here's to a year filled with growth, achievements, and memorable experiences. I wish you all a successful and rewarding year ahead.
Dianne McGowan
Assistant Principal Learning and Teaching