FROM THE MIDDLE SCHOOL

Inclusive and Effective Communicators!

These two Scotch Oakburn Learner Attributes are the focus throughout Term 1 in the Middle School.  These will provide the framework for a sense of welcome from students and staff to create a ‘learning home’ for all while being resilient to support each other during times of challenge.  I was very proud of the sense of connection and support displayed by all our students during the first three days of being on campus.  These two attributes (Inclusive and Effective Communicators) are directly linked to our 2022 Middle School motto #beyou!

#beyou aims to remind us all that we are encouraged to be brave!  The intended outcome is that during 2022, when challenged, we (learners) feel confident to be true to our learning goals, resist peer pressure that may negatively influence our decisions and also promote growth in self-esteem.  In collaboration #beyou also develops a sense of building others up and celebrating the achievements of fellow Middle School students.

Inquiry Learning – embracing a thinking culture and a curious mind.

Throughout the Middle School, the following key questions are providing threads across the curriculum areas, enabling a deeper connection and understanding.

Year 6 – “How am I connected?”
Year 7 – “Where am I from?”
Year 8 – What possibilities can we explore?”

As we continue to explore these questions alongside the curriculum programs, we aim to connect to the broader community to ensure that our learning experiences are memorable.

Ben Green
Head of Middle School

Fantastic Mr Fox Auditions

It’s not even Week 1 and the Performing Arts Department is buzzing with excitement over the Middle School Play, Fantastic Mr Fox, which will be performed in the Horton Auditorium on Thursday 12 and Friday 13 May. This timeless classic has been adapted to the stage by playwright David Wood.

Roald Dahl’s much-loved story follows the vain attempts of three farmers, Boggis, Bunce and Bean, one fat, one short, one lean, to get rid of the fox who regularly steals food from their farms. They try to kill him by any means possible. Outwitted at every turn, the farmer’s ploys backfire. Fantastic Mr Fox devises a plan which will ensure full stomachs for not only his family but all of his friends, who celebrate with a sumptuous feast.

Our Director, Miss Evie Chalk, will be holding auditions during lunchtimes in Week 1 and Week 2 on Tuesday and Wednesday. More details to follow on the Middle School Production Dash page in the Co-curricular Penquite section.

If you have any questions, please talk to Miss Chalk, Mrs Kathryn Gray or myself.

Andy Prideaux
College Productions Coordinator

Year 6 Education Outdoors

On Monday 7 February, our Year 6 students will complete ‘packing day’ ahead of their Valley Campus program commencing on Tuesday 8 February, returning Friday 11 February.  This ‘Coastal Explorer’s’ program, includes beach experiences on the beautiful East Coast of Tasmania, including surfing, canoeing and beach conservation learning.  I am sure this experience will enhance the connection to the Year 6 Inquiry, ‘How am I Connected?’

Ben Green
Head of Middle School

Year 7 and 8 House Swimming Trials

During the upcoming week, all Year 7 and 8 students will participate in House Swimming trials at the Elphin Campus Pool, from 3.15pm to 4.45pm. This is the first of many House based experiences in 2022; enjoy!

Ben Green
Head of Middle School