FROM THE JUNIOR SCHOOL

Learning

One of the most significant changes impacting education in contemporary times arises from research deepening our understanding of the nature of learning itself. We know that teaching content and academics has always been important and is still necessary. However, it is no longer enough. As Andreas Schleicher of the OECD noted as long ago as 2014: “The world economy no longer pays for what people know but for what they can do with what they know.”

Accordingly, the content and disciplines that we traditionally teach must be reframed not only as outcomes but also as opportunities for experiencing, applying, and reflecting on dispositions (essential learner attributes). Learning must be viewed through a different lens as more personalised than the grading, standardising and averaging of past eras. In Students at the Centre (Kallick & Zmuda), researchers view personalising learning in schools as guidance, coaching and support for students as they have more of a voice in (and ownership of) their own learning and co-create an image of themselves and their world and of what it means to learn. “From an early age, children discover the process of social construction, the bonding with others that unleashes the power of camaraderie, cooperative learning and interdependent thinking. Thus starts a lifelong journey of self-discovery. Through experimentation, feedback, persistent practice, risk taking, failure and success they continue to discover personal interests, passions, potentials, aversions, values, styles and tastes.”

Changes in understanding of learning have been supported by the knowledge that learner attributes can be learned and their development guided, monitored and measured.  The ‘New Metrics’ project in which Scotch Oakburn is engaged with Melbourne University and a number of other Australian schools is supporting the College’s initiatives in this area (from Early Learning to Year 12) to maximise the lifelong learning capabilities of all students.

Junior School Inter-House Cross Country Carnival

After having to postpone due to bad weather, it was blue sky and sunshine at Scotch Oakburn Park on Thursday for the Junior School Inrer-House Cross Country Carnival.  Due to flooding in the Wetlands, a late alteration of courses was required. All students displayed outstanding agility and resilience as they completed unfamiliar courses. Congratulations to every runner who strived to achieve their personal best and contributed to their overall House team results. House spirit and sportsmanship were highlights of the afternoon.

A special thank you to Year 8 Leaders and Year 12 Student Executive members who assisted with official duties. Thank you also to all staff who supported House teams, runners, Nicky Reid and the HPE team who coordinated the Carnival, and all spectators who made the long walk from car to course to cheer on the runners.

The final standings for the day:

1. Fox
2. Dean
3. Briggs
4. Nance

Special congratulations to the following students, finishing top three in their event:

NIJSSA Cross Country

A team of 48 runners from Years 3-6 will represent the College at this year’s NIJSSA cross country carnival at Windsor Park on Wednesday 7 June. Spectators are most welcome to support our team and team members will bring home details of the program for the day.

Lachie Wright
Head of Junior School