As Term 2 draws to a close, I would like to acknowledge the work done by our students and staff in the Primary school this semester. Also, congratulations to all students and teachers for the valued and important work that has gone into this assessment and reporting period. Primary reports will be available on the Parent Portal in the first week of the school holidays. You will receive an email to notify you when these are ready for viewing.

Student reports bring mixed feelings for parents. Pleasure and pride if children are performing well but considerable angst when children are not progressing as hoped. Reports can mean anxious times for children too. Will my parents be disappointed or proud? This is the main concern of most children. Children of all ages take their cues from their parents, so your reaction to their school report can affect the way they see themselves as learners and as people.

Before you access the report please consider:

1. Are your expectations for your son or daughter realistic and in line with their ability?

          Pitch your expectations in line with your child’s abilities.

2. Do you believe that children learn at different rates?

          Avoid comparing your child to siblings, your friends’ children. Instead look for individual progress.

3. Are you willing to safeguard your child’s self-esteem rather than deflate it?

         Self-confidence is a pre-requisite for learning, so be prepared to be as positive and encouraging as possible.

School reports come in different formats. Regardless of the format, school reports should provide you with an idea of your child’s progress in all subject areas, their attitude and their social development.

Here are some ideas to consider when you open your child’s report:

1. Focus on strengths. Take into account your child’s effort and attitude to learning.
2. Broaden your focus away from only looking at academic performance and also look at how your child gets along with his or her peers as well as their skills in the areas of independence and co-operation which are highly valued.
3. Take note of student self-assessment. Children are generally very honest and will give a realistic assessment of their progress.
4. Discuss the report with your son or daughter talking about strengths first before looking at areas that need improvement.
   (2011 Michael Grose – parentingideas.com.au )

School closes on Friday 28 June and resumes on Monday 22 July.

I hope that you are able to have some quality family time together over the school holidays. Please remain safe if you are travelling on the busy roads and we look forward to seeing you all on Monday 22 July for the start of another busy, blessed and productive term.

Wishing everyone a safe, happy and restful holiday break.

Gail Mitchell, Head of Primary