School News Australia - Term 3, 2023 by Multimedia AU/NZ

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The essential industry guide

Issue 29 | Term 3, 2023

CAREER CALLING INTERNATIONAL: Your pathway to success in a globalised world Essential Reading for Principals • Department Heads • Teachers • Professionals

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INSIDE three term

FRONT DESK Editor’s Note: The halfway point.........................................................................05

EDUCATION Special Report: Teaching First Nations languages..................................... 06

Principal Speaks: Respect, inclusivity and the power of working together...................................................................08 Profile: The Nature School.....................................................................................11 Inclusive classrooms to meet everyone’s learning needs......................... 16

ADMINISTRATION Make yourself heard: IP paging and PA systems..........................................20 Case Study: Performance solutions with portable staging......................24 Seating solutions for maximum learning engagement.............................28 Case Study: Flexible spaces for flexible minds: Resource Furniture...................................................................................34 Bob Hawke College: Best practice makes perfect.......................................36

TECHNOLOGY

The power of technology for learning and teaching.................................. 40 EduTECH 2023 Pre Event Coverage...................................................................42 EduTECH 2023: The event for everyone...........................................................46

TEACHER’S DESK

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Mistakes leaders make with teaching wellbeing......................................... 49

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FOOD & BEVERAGE

Quench that thirst and get a learning burst.................................................. 50

EXTERNAL LEARNING

EDITOR, Gemma Easton editor@school-news.com.au

Hands-On Learning: School visits to Zoos & Wildlife Parks.....................52

INDUSTRY REPORTERS Naomii Seah and Sarah Davison

Expanding horizons with educational tours..................................................56

PRODUCTION, Richard McGill ADVERTISING, Pip Casey advertising@school-news.com.au

PROPERTY

Welcoming facilities to foster healthy habits................................................62

CONTRIBUTORS Tracey Rapson and Daniela Falecki

Elevate your school’s outdoor spaces

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with modern furniture............................................................................................64

WHAT’S HOT.................................................................................. 66 Front Cover: Career Calling International

FRONT DESK

Commercially funded supplier profile or supplier case study Supplier information or content Suppliers share their views in one-off, topical pieces General editorial. Case studies and features may cite or quote suppliers, please be aware that we have a strict ‘no commercial content’ guideline for all magazine editorial, so this is not part of any commercially funded advertorial but may be included as relevant opinion. Happy reading!

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

that the rest of the school year brings to make progress. We tell students to give everything their best, so we should extend the same expectations to ourselves.

When I worked in schools, my colleagues and I found it easy to measure time in blocks – number of sessions or periods left in a day, days left in a week, weeks left in a term. For an average 10-week term, we would count up until week five, and then from week six, the countdown was on. Only four weeks to go! Now three weeks! Only two weeks left! It is easy to wish the time away, as we look forward to the summer holidays. At this time of year, the amount of work left to get to the finish line can feel overwhelming. And as the planning for end of year activities begins, the mountain of work left to be done can feel insurmountable. Instead of thinking about what is still to be done, why not reflect

Gemma Easton,

Editor, SchoolNews editor@school-news.com.au

on all that you have achieved already this year; focus on the small wins, and all the things you have cleared from your to-do list or inbox. Look forward to all the opportunities left to still achieve great things this year. Whether it is a small change or initiative you want to try in your classroom, or a broader department or school-wide program you have been thinking about, seize the opportunity

In our profile this term, we take you to The Nature School. Set in picturesque Port Macquaire on Birapi country, TNS encourages students to spend as much time outdoors as possible, and teaches every subject with a nature focus. While the school does have classrooms, and delivers the same curriculum as other schools, learning by doing is prioritised, and curiosity is encouraged. Hunter River Community School Principal Tracey Rapson authors our Principal Speaks column this term. Tracey reflects on her teaching journey, and her

philosophy that ‘different does not mean less’. As a School for Specific Purposes, Tracey has the pleasure of working with students with varying educational needs, and works proactively to ensure every student can thrive. We are looking forward to this year’s EduTECH conference! In our editorial feature, we preview the event, and find out what attendees can expect. Some exciting new additions have been added to the program this year, including an esports tournament and extra seminars. This year will also see the return of the much-loved Gala Dinner. I hope you enjoy this edition of School News, the second last one for the year. Not that I am counting down!

The School News team acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands upon which we gather, work, and publish. We want to pay our respects to Elders past, present, and future, who continue cultural, educational, and spiritual connections to Country.

• • •

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

FRONT DESK

EDITOR’S NOTE

The halfway point

SPECIAL REPORT

More than words:

Teaching First Nations languages By Gemma Easton, Editor

was not a fluent speaker. It was later in life, when she was deciding on a career path, that she took to studying the language more rigorously.

Australia is home to one of the oldest continuing cultures on Earth, with history and traditions of First Nations people spanning an estimated 65,000 years. This is something all Australians should be proud of, and should work to preserve, celebrate, and continue.

While working as an Aboriginal Education Officer, she received an email seeking applicants for an Aboriginal Languages training course. Candidates did not need to be fluent speakers, but did need to have a basic understanding of the language. Completing her qualification in blocks, Mrs Bevis studied for one week during each school term, and then one week in the school holidays.

At the time of colonisation, there were more than 250 individual and distinct Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages spoken in Australia. Of the 145 left today, 110 are critically endangered. Indigenous languages in Australia comprise only two percent of languages spoken in the world, yet represent nine percent of the world’s critically endangered languages. In October 2022, the Federal Government committed to a $14.1 million plan over four years to 2025-2026 to teach First Nations languages in primary schools across Australia. Funding would support 60 new First Nations Cultural Educators to share their language and culture in primary schools throughout the nation. The initiative aims to help keep First Nations languages alive, by increasing the uptake of these languages by young people. State and Territory governments also have programs which facilitate the teaching of First Languages in schools within their jurisdiction. Minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney, said the Government is committed to

Once qualified, Mrs Bevis divided her time between working as an Aboriginal Education Officer in a high school, and teaching Noongar language in a primary school.

Noongar languge teacher Isobel Bevis

safeguarding and strengthening First Nations languages. “Indigenous languages are so important to the identity and connection with culture for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. “Promoting the use of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages in health and early childhood settings demonstrates our collective support and drive to achieve positive health and wellbeing outcomes in First Nations communities,” Minister Burney said. Isobel Bevis is a qualified Aboriginal Languages

Noongar Language teacher. Based at Gilmore College in Western Australia, she works with Aboriginal students, connecting them to history, culture, and language. “The kids love it,” Mrs Bevis said. “They pick up the language through stories, games and conversations about language. Linking language with history and culture helps them to better grasp the language, and to recognise words and how they are used.” Mrs Bevis said she grew up with language, listening to her nan and uncle speak and picking up words, though she

EDUCATION

“I was new to teaching, and then new to languages when I first started teaching Noongar,” Mrs Bevis said. “I didn’t think it would work, but it did. I learnt alongside the children, and we taught each other.” Research conducted by the Australian Council for Educational Research reported that 16,000 Indigenous students and 13,000 non-Indigenous students in Australia are involved in an Indigenous language program. More than 80 different languages are taught, in 260 Australian schools. The number of students taught, schools involved, and languages represented varies from state to state. As of 2022, Western Australia and South Australia lead the sector, with 68 and 63 schools teaching language respectively. First Languages are delivered to 49 schools in the Northern Territory, and 46 schools in Queensland. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Why teaching First Languages is important Reconciliation Australia sees the maintenance, revitalisation, and revival of First Languages as important acts of reconciliation. Research emphasises that intercultural awareness and understanding is increased for all involved in language revitalisation initiatives. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who speak First Languages are also more likely to attend school, gain a post-school qualification, be employed, and have markedly better physical and mental health. The preservation of First Nations languages, then, is about more than the languages themselves; the impact for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and for the country more broadly are far reaching. Reconnecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with their languages can help close the gap between Indigenous educational, socio-cultural, economic and health outcomes or opportunities compared with those of the wider Australian community. Language is an important tool for conveying knowledge, understanding, history and culture. All students benefit from learning First Languages, as they offer the opportunity to learn about First Nations history, culture, and contributions. It also helps reframe Australian history, accepting the old version of European settlement is inaccurate and disrespectful of First Nations people. Language revitalisation can support the development of bi- or multi-culturally aware and appreciative citizens that can drive a future of shared pride among all Australians. Collaboration with local communities is facilitated through local languages. And, with the loss of language also comes the loss of Indigenous ecological knowledge, including Aboriginal seasonal knowledge and traditional uses of flora and fauna.

Students want to learn First Languages A 2022 poll of primary school students revealed they would rather learn a local First Nations language that the commonlyTerm 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Much of Mrs Bevis’s teaching is student led and enquiry based – students notice language conventions in their learning of history and culture, which they can then discuss and understand. Mrs Bevis also adapts her teaching strategies to suit her learners. “The kids I teach may not use Noongar every day, but they will understand it when they see it or hear it,” she said.

Images supplied by Isobel Bevis

taught Japanese, Mandarin, French, Italian, German and Indonesian. Commissioned by the Know Your Country Campaign, the survey also found that nearly a third (28 percent) of parents wanted their children to learn a First Nations language. Campaign advisor Professor Tom Calma, AO, from the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation, said: “The findings show a genuine hunger from both parents and children themselves to be authentically taught more about the country’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and languages. “Wouldn’t it be great if the local First Nations language for ‘hello’ rolled off our children’s tongues as easily as Bonjour or Ciao?” he said. Speaking with Know Your Country following the survey’s release, Know Your Country Policy Lead and Wiradjuri man Dr Scott Winch said “There’s an incredible power and investment in knowing the history and unique language of the land you are standing on. When children learn directly from a local First Nations educator, our research shows they are more likely to enjoy the class, and develop a thirst to learn even more.”

then allows the community to identify what country they are on, and what language should be spoken in that area.”

The challenge While the greater interest, recognition and uptake of First Languages is encouraging, Mrs Bevis said a shortage of Aboriginal language teachers is one of the biggest barriers. “Noongar Boodja (Country), where I live and work, is the largest language area in Australia. Finding people to learn and then teach the language is difficult. “You can’t have reconciliation without language,” she said, and cautions that explicit teaching is not always the best approach. “The teaching of language in the curriculum is very structured, it is through a Western lens. This doesn’t always work, though. Do we have to use the curriculum, or can we get the local community and Elders involved?”

This could prove a useful model to engage all students with First Languages. Shifting the goal from fluent speaking to an appreciation, understanding and recognition of First Languages could make them more accessible to students, and the community more broadly. For Mrs Bevis, learning and then teaching Noongar is about more than the language; it is a way of honouring her mum and siblings, and her nan. “My Nan, through the Native Citizenship Act, gave away her rights to be Aboriginal after colonisation so she could attend school and then raise her children. She stopped speaking her language, and much of her culture. Teaching language, history and culture to students is my way of repaying Elders, those who have gone before me, and helping the next generation reconnect with their past and who they are as Aboriginal children.” This is a mark of respect we can all extend to First Nations people, encouraging the learning of First Nations language, culture and history for everyone.

Mrs Bevis believes there has been a growing momentum for the revival of First Languages. She attributes this in part to the increasingly common trend towards dual place names. “Community have more input with local councils now, and are asking for traditional place names to be recognised. Schools think they should encourage this,” she said. “Using traditional place names EDUCATION

PRINCIPAL SPEAKS

Respect, inclusivity and the power of working together

Image courtesy of Hunter River Community School, NSW

students living with complex disabilities. Our students are our greatest resource, and we are learning from them every day. Our vision is to ensure that every student has a voice, opportunity, and a respectful learning environment that promotes abilities and looks outside the box.

By Tracey Rapson, Principal, Hunter River Community School, NSW

Hunter River Community School is a School for Speciﬁc Purposes (SSP) that proudly sits on traditional Wonnarua Country in Metford New South Wales. We pride ourselves on high impact, individualised learning pathways that are provided for

My journey and love of education started in school. From an early age I wanted to be a teacher. I remember being in Year 2 at Dungog Primary School speaking about my dream of being an educator. One of my earliest inspirations, Miss Alice Hales, smiled, and nodded, and I clearly remember thinking that was a tick of approval from a higher entity. I loved school and learning and felt at home in the classroom. Living in a small, rather traditional rural town, I recall the passion of teachers such as Lorraine Hannon, Susan Bear, Bill Stewart and Des Sloman, constantly encouraging me to challenge

What we see is not always what is happening with our students

the expectations and to find adventure in books. My love of reading and quest for knowledge started in their classrooms. I was the first in my family to attend University, and the day I received my early entry acceptance was a significant milestone in not only my life, but across generations. I would not be sitting here drafting this article without the multilayered support of my family, who embodied the ethos of wanting their children to have more. Within the community we lived, the priority they placed on education was unusual, and their sacrifices to ensure my dreams have been significant.

EDUCATION

Supporting people living with disabilities has always been extremely important to me. I vividly recall seeing a local man Bernie Holstein, walking the streets of Dungog. Bernie lived with Cerebral Palsy and would walk kilometres listening to his ‘tunes’ loudly. The distinctive tones of Slim Dusty would ring out loud and clear as he walked past the playground each day. The taunts, insults and ignorant comments that were directed toward him, not only by students, shocked and horrified me, and from a 9-year old’s perspective, I could not understand how they could not see what I saw: Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Images courtesy of Hunter River Community School

an amazing man, challenging preconceived ideas and trying to live his best life. Looking back, that was the moment that my career path became a vehicle to try and effect change. Upon graduating with my Bachelor of Special Education – Primary, my career has been focused on supporting young people within SPPs. As a teacher I tried to ensure that my students engaged in quality learning opportunities that mirrored their neuro- typical peers. In a time where curriculumbased teaching in SSPs was the exception, I was extremely

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

fortunate that my mentors, such as Ian Hughes, advocated for curriculum-based learning. Ian’s commitment to challenge a system was inspiring, and something as leaders, we should all be trying to emulate. My leadership journey over the past 20 years has been underpinned by a strong belief that what we see is not always what is happening with our students. The physical body can house incredible minds that have no voice to express their thoughts, feelings, and opinions. My quest as a Principal, is to encourage staff, families, friends, and community, to look beyond and to provide students with

tools and access to be able to showcase their abilities. I personally do not like the word disability – the ‘dis” automatically implies a deficit, and that is just not true. I advocate and promote that “different does not mean less”. This should be signposted in every school across our country! Hunter River Community School is an amazing place to work and learn, a centre of excellence, and I believe a shining light in the domain of special education. The wonderful students that attend our school originate from six local government areas, and some young people travel significant distances to come

EDUCATION

to our school. The student population is diverse, and includes young people living on the autism spectrum, with complex health care needs, and rare genetic conditions. Our teaching and learning programs are robust, rich, authentic, and highly differentiated to provide individual students access to high impact learning. Our work is underpinned by asking “why” and “how can we do that another way”. We are not afraid to admit that we need to do things differently, or to seek assistance from others. One of the greatest things, as a leader, that I am proud of, is as a

team, we embrace the messages that our students tell us. We do not question how they learn, but problem solve ways that we can support them to learn that way. Our core business is to provide our students with a voice, and when we have been successful, the results have been incredible and life changing. One of the communication support strategies we have embraced is Assisted Writing Communication (AWS). Through this technique, students have been able to reveal so much about what it is to live with autism. We have learnt that, in the words of our students, autism is like a wrapper that can be suffocating, however when a crack appears, the young person can let others into their amazing world. An example of the life changing power of Assisted Writing can be seen in the amazing work of two students, Charles and Koby. Charles completed his typical pattern of Higher School Certificate last year, our very first student ever to sit a non-life skill HSC. Charles is currently non-speaking, lives with ASD Level 3, and lived in a world of frustration and silence. After a personal challenge, he began to use AWC to communicate. What transpired was inspiring. It soon became apparent that beneath the physical façade, was a brilliant mind, a mind that, without specialised teaching, could easily complete Extension 2 maths equations, draft detailed stories and translate multiple languages. Via his trusted communication partner, he articulated his struggles with autism, his frustration at being treated as “stupid” and his dreams of going to University. As a staff, we took a deep breath and then, without a roadmap, made his quest to sit the HSC happen. Remember, my staff are teachers in a SSP, with no formal training in high school subjects. As a Principal, I rang every person I could think to try and find a similar blueprint – in the end we made our own! Charles was awarded the Ministers Award for Excellence in Student Achievement in 2022. The first young person living with complex autism to be presented with such a prestigious award.

Every Principal should be extremely proud of their school impart knowledge of those transformational teachers and leaders of the future. I feel incredibly privileged to have the opportunity to facilitate and promote using a different lens to review the scope of teaching young people who are neurodivergent.

Images courtesy of Hunter River Community School, NSW

Charles is now studying Pure Mathematics at Newcastle University. Koby’s dream is slightly different and focuses on writing a book about himself and autism. Once again Koby is currently nonspeaking, lives with ASD Level 3, and does not engage in learning in a traditional manner. “Seeing Koby” is in draft form, and we will ensure it is published in some way before Koby completes Year 12 this year. Every Principal should be extremely proud of their school and at HRCS, magic happens every day. I am extremely fortunate to lead a team who are resilient, determined and not afraid to challenge the norms. Our days can be extremely complex and challenging, yet every day staff strive to celebrate the smallest step of success. My teachers, Student Learning Support Officers, Health, and Administration team, all go above and beyond, embrace change, and diligently strive to make attending HRCS as enjoyable as possible. There is no adjustment that

is considered unreasonable, no learning opportunity that is considered too hard or no challenge that cannot be collaboratively faced. Yes, the solutions may not be always successful, but the commitment to try again and again is inspiring and does make a difference. My executive team, led by John Winters, my Relieving Deputy Principal, are an amazing group of leaders who enthusiastically promote our school vision and continue to push the envelope when it comes to whole school initiatives. This year we have implemented an assessment driven literacy program that has revolutionised the way we explicitly teach literacy across the school. The results to date are incredible and clearly outline that every student has the capacity to learn complex information, when provided with communication access, belief and quality teaching and learning opportunities. These successes are what keeps me motivated and what underpins my commitment to trying to change perceptions, knock down barriers and

EDUCATION

My career has sat within the framework of NSW Department of Education. A system, that whilst not perfect, has a strong commitment to providing an education for every student. Over the past thirty-five years there have been lots of changes, and I firmly believe that, as a system, we are headed in the right direction in terms of providing quality education for young people who are neurodivergent. There is still some way to go, but the vison is there, as is the recognition that an inclusive learning environment is a basic right for every student. I hope that the work being undertaken by my team, will assist in modelling the possible, and promote a reflection of current principles and practices. Finally, the students who have passed through my classroom and who I have supported during their time at Hunter River Community School are the most amazing group of individuals. Despite their challenges, they promote kindness, acceptance, and resilience. Their journey may face many twists and turns, and they may come up against prejudice, bigotry, and ignorance, yet, alongside their families and friends, they remain positive, stand tall and live life to the fullest. They are my inspiration, and they deserve every recognition and celebration. Together, anything is possible. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

PROFILE

The Nature School

Image courtesy of The Nature School

By Gemma Easton, Editor

to facilitate a learner led approach. Students are also supported to establish a connection to the local community.

Fresh air, sunshine and a connection to nature are all linked to improved wellbeing. Why, then, do we keep students inside for so much of the school day?

“The benefits of connecting with the natural world are undisputed. In addition to improved mental health and overall wellbeing, there is an increase in resilience, confidence, problem solving, cooperation, decision making and the ability to assess risk. As children engage with nature and with each other, they are really learning about the world around them, and importantly about their place in it,” Ms Shaw said.

The Nature School (TNS) is challenging this model, bringing learning outside and away from the desks and chairs of the typical classroom. Students are encouraged to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Learning, understanding, and growing are all facilitated through a strong connection with the natural world. I asked Principal Catherine Shaw what a typical day at The Nature School looks like. She assured me TNS is anything but typical! “When students arrive, they head straight outside to play, warm up by the fire, feed the chickens, or work on their cubby house constructions. We play a djembe to let everyone know when it’s time to start the day,” Ms Shaw said. Located in Port Macquarie, New South Wales, TNS does have classrooms, and delivers the same curriculum as some other schools – New South Wales Syllabus for the Australian Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Principal Catherine Shaw

Curriculum. The approach, though, is very different. Every subject is taught with a nature focus, and teaching takes place outdoors as much as possible. Learning by doing is prioritised and curiosity is encouraged. Technology is used minimally with limited screentime, and purposeful use of technology is favoured over gamified learning. Textbooks are similarly de-emphasised, with a preference for varied learning resources EDUCATION

TNS incorporates an inquiry-based approach, facilitated by a strong connection to nature. In addition to explicit teaching, teachers pose questions, problems or scenarios, then encourage student-led investigations. In time, students become more confident in developing their own questions. Originally operating as a bush immersion pilot program for children aged 3 to 6 years the program was well received by the local community, and expanded into an Early Years program in 2016. The school officially opened in 2018 initially as a K to 2 with around 20 students, and currently caters for 140 students. TNS Primary is now a thriving school, offering Kindergarten to Year 6, as well as the Early Years program, and a School Holiday Program.

Smaller class sizes at TNS mean teachers can focus on the individual needs of each student. There are opportunities for multiage learning and inquiry-based projects. More than this, students have the space to learn, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Of course, any learning environment is incomplete without excellent teachers and a network of skilled support staff. Educators at TNS have a passion for outdoor education, and a diverse range of skills that allow for rich and varied learning. Staff are skilled in areas including species identification, permaculture, fermentation, bush tucker, marine biology, ornithology and much more. Beyond their day jobs, many TNS staff indulge their love of nature in their spare time, enjoying recreational pursuits including birdwatching, gardening, surfing, and bushwalking. The natural beauty of the school’s location on the New South Wales Mid North Coast is used to full advantage, with immersive learning experiences designed to connect and engage students with local heritage, cultures, landscapes, opportunities, and experiences. Moving well beyond the traditional four walls, the classroom can be anywhere, and learning takes place everywhere. “Every student in every grade has a designated fortnightly offsite day, where learning happens on the beach, in the bush, or anywhere else across the beautiful Port Macquarie region connected with their units,” Ms Shaw said. Called Adventure Days for primary students, and Field Studies Days for secondary

Images courtesy of The Nature School

Learning comes alive when you have the opportunity to connect the curriculum with the natural world

students, Ms Shaw said these are the most rewarding learning opportunities for her personally, and for many TNS staff. “Learning comes alive when you have the opportunity to connect the curriculum with the natural world. “It’s a challenge though to make it all happen. On even weeks, Secondary students head off in our minibus to engage in Science

EDUCATION

and Geography in the Field. Recently, they trekked our Coastal Geo-trail to survey geological formations and analyse rock types. Then on odd weeks, Primary students each have a designated Adventure Day. “So, on Tuesday, Kindy took the minibus to a local garden, on Wednesday Years 1 and 2 were at a farm, on Thursday Years 3 and 4 were tree planting for the local Koala Hospital, and on Friday Years 5 and 6

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

were investigating tree hollows suitable for owl species in local bushland. All of those locations and activities are connected with conceptual units of integrated learning, ensuring outcomes are met across the curriculum. And of course each site requires a risk assessment, plus teachers having their Light Rigid licence to drive the minibuses!”

Images courtesy of The Nature School

There is a conceptual focus each term, and subjects are integrated as much as possible. This integrated nature-based approach to curriculum, Ms Shaw said, leads to a high level of engagement and deep level of learning. “Our Year 5 students, for example, have been engaged in studies about fungi this term. So when they have been off on Adventure Days they’ve surveyed bushland for fungi (Geography), identified species (Science), collected data (Mathematics), drawn botanical sketches (Art), and written about their findings (English). They’ve even compared mycelium with data networks (Technology)! It’s layer on layer of connected learning experiences.” TNS has a strong relationship with traditional owners of the land on which they learn and teach, and respect for First Nations history, culture and contributions is championed. “The Nature School stands on Birpai Country. We have an Aboriginal Educational Officer (AEO) on staff who supports colleagues and students alike in our learning about Culture and the Traditional Custodians of this land,” Ms Shaw said. “We have a school Acknowledgement of Country which students share frequently, and our AEO also delivers Acknowledgement in Language. The Gathang Language is in revival, so it is important that we respectfully engage with Elders and follow protocols around Language. “It’s so special when our AEO heads out on offsite days with our students. She can identify bush tucker, explain significant sites, and show all of us ways of reading and understanding Country.” While the educational approach taken by TNS is unconventional, it has proven successful, and is highly regarded by the Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

local community. Many year levels have long wait lists, as families see and hear about the benefits of a nature-based education. This year, the school expanded to offer secondary education with a Year 7 class. “Each year as we’ve added grade on grade, demand has continued to grow. Parents overwhelmingly requested we continue growing into high school and EDUCATION

it’s been incredibly exciting to step into the secondary space,” Ms Shaw said. “The Nature School Board has committed to continuing our growth through to Year 10, when we will have a total cohort of around 200 students. It’s amazing to see just how much demand there is for a small, regional school with a progressive approach to education.”

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In the world of school maintenance and groundskeeping, efficiency and reliability are crucial factors. The demanding tasks involved in maintaining school grounds and transporting personnel requires dependable equipment that can get the job done with ease. Carts’n’Parts Australia recognises these needs and offers two exceptional and cost effective solutions: the ECAR Lithium 627 H8 Cart and the ECAR Lithium 627 6S Golf Cart. Both the ECAR Lithium 627 H8 and ECAR Lithium 627 6S Carts are powered by a 67Ah Lithium Golf Battery, providing a clean and efficient alternative to traditional petrol-powered carts and actually provide more power and capability as technology has come a long way. In addition to their environmental advantages, the Lithium battery technology used in these carts offers a fault proof, long term and reliable solution for onsite transport. These batteries have been developed specifically for these Brushless AC powered golf carts and will handle any load you can throw at it. Compared to older wet-cell/lead acid batteries, Lithium batteries require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan (up to 10 years or 3500 full charge cycles). Plus, being Lithium powered, these carts can run up to 120km (based on which Lithium Golf battery pack is installed) on a single charge. Meaning, they will keep on going throughout the day without the need for frequent recharging.

ECAR Lithium 627 H8 Cart

Safety and comfort are understandably top priorities when it comes to equipment used on school premises. And with this in mind, the ECAR Lithium 627 H8 Cart and ECAR Lithium 627 6S Golf Cart come equipped with essential safety features, including seat belts, a full lighting kit, side mirrors and an automatic parking brake stock standard. Additional safety lighting and audible alerts can also be installed upon request if required. Furthermore, both carts can be programmed to travel at speeds suitable for school grounds, ensuring safe transportation when kids or the public are present.

As for their differences, the ECAR Lithium 627 H8 Cart accommodates two passengers, providing spacious and comfortable seating. It comes equipped with a hydraulic driven aluminum tipper tray that has a drop-down tailgate. This tray measures 1840mm (L) x 1090mm (W) x 265mm (D). On the other hand, the ECAR Lithium 627 6S Golf Cart offers seating for up to six individuals or four individuals with additional loading space all thanks to its unique two-way rear seat that folds out to a tray for carrying additional goods. With each of their versatile designs, these carts can handle a wide range of tasks, from transporting maintenance tools, classroom equipment or landscaping material to shuttling personnel. Carts’n’Parts Australia is renowned for delivering reliable products backed by local support. With over 17 years of experience, their golf carts are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of Australian schools. By investing in the ECAR Lithium 627 H8 Cart and ECAR Lithium 627 6S Golf Cart, schools can benefit from the combination of performance, reliability, and safety features that these carts offer. Both the ECAR Lithium 627 H8 Cart and the ECAR Lithium 627 6S Golf Cart retail for $16,990 inc. GST and can be delivered Australia-wide. Meaning any school across the country can benefit from these exceptional golf carts.

ECAR Lithium 627 6S Golf Cart

EDUCATION

For more information or to view more Commercial Golf Cart conﬁgurations please visit cartsnparts.com.au, email info@cartsnparts.com.au or call 1300 93 88 11. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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EDUCATION

Inclusive classrooms to meet everyone’s learning needs Image courtesy of SPELD SA

By Gemma Easton, Editor

The diversity of students, including students with disability, those who are gifted and talented and those for whom English is an additional language or dialect, can present both extraordinary promise and potential challenges for schools. The Australian Curriculum promotes inclusivity, emphasising the need for schools to make reasonable adjustments to support students with special education needs. Government organisation the Australian Institute for Health and Welfare reports an estimated 1 in 10 school aged children have a disability or different learning need. This includes physical disability, as well as sensory, hearing and sight impairments, memory problems, social or behavioural problems, and different learning abilities. Almost all students

1 in 10 school aged children have a disability or diﬀerent learning need

with different learning needs (89 percent) attend school. This means all classrooms need to be inclusive learning environments. Legislative and regulatory obligations underpin and reinforce this. The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and the Disability Standards for Education 2005 outline the requirements for education providers to ensure that all students with disability can access education ‘on the same basis’ as their peers, supported by reasonable adjustments and teaching strategies tailored to meet their individual needs. Inclusivity, then, is not just encouraged, it is required. Opportunities are available within the curriculum for teachers to develop inclusive

learning and teaching programs, building on individual strengths, interests, goals and learning needs to ensure every student achieves to their potential. The Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) reminds educators that if a student has a learning difficulty in one area, it does not mean they will have learning difficulties in all subject areas. Additionally, students with different learning needs can achieve learning standards commensurate to those of their peers. And although a student may have an identified learning need, they may not require adjustments to the curriculum, or to assessment and reporting. Gifted and talented students benefit from rigorous,

EDUCATION

engaging, and relevant learning opportunities. These students can demonstrate varying levels of giftedness across and within learning areas, vary in abilities and aptitudes demonstrated in a single area or across a variety of domains, and exhibit different learning behaviours. ACARA research confirms between 2 and 5 percent of gifted and talented students have a disability. To accommodate the diverse needs of students, adjustments to learning and teaching, classroom set up, communication, and learning environments may be required. ACARA encourages flexible learning models, and engaging with the curriculum to support all students to meet learning standards and requirements Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Image courtesy of Spectronics

in a way that best suits them. Throughout their educational journey, students should also be supported to learn skills that will benefit them throughout their life, such as the ability to relate to others, manage their own wellbeing, and make informed decisions about their lives. Students will then be empowered to become responsible global citizens, who act with integrity and compassion. Classroom set up, working in peer supported groups, and adjusting learning models as needed are practical starting points for supporting students with different educational needs. In some instances, though, specialist tools may be needed to provide the optimum learning environment. Depending on student requirements, sensory objects, aids to assist sight and hearing, and software to adapt learning programs can be implemented. Access to specialist teachers and teacher aides is important in supporting both students and teachers. These specialists, though, may not be available in all classrooms all the time. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Equipping all teachers to cater for the individual needs of their students is paramount. To ensure teachers feel able to cater for the diverse range of learning needs in their classroom, ongoing professional development is essential. For insight into how all students can be supported to achieve their best, School News spoke to some industry insiders. Dr Skye McLennan, Clinical Psychologist at SPELD SA advocates for the use of phonics programs for assisting students with literacy. “Research shows that Structured Synthetic Phonics programs provide the most effective approach to teaching phonics (decoding) skills. This approach is best practice for all students in the classroom, not just those with learning difficulties.” Dr McLennan explained that programs share some characteristics. “They explicitly teach the links between printed letters and the sounds that they represent. Children are not expected to guess or work this out themselves. EDUCATION

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“They are structured, and introduce a small number (two to six) of new letter+sound combinations at a time and introduce them according to a predetermined sequence. “Programs move at the appropriate pace. They do not introduce the next set of two to six letter+sound correspondences until the student has had ample opportunity to practise and consolidate the sets already introduced. “There is a gradual introduction of words with irregular spelling. A small number of ‘tricky’ words that have unusual spellings (e.g. ‘once’; ‘two’) are introduced at each stage. These ‘tricky’ words are also introduced in a predetermined sequence. “Finally, these programs facilitate practise using

decodable text. Students are directed to practise reading passages/books/readers that are made up exclusively of words that contain the letter+sound correspondences (and ‘tricky’ words) that have already been taught. This allows students to practise what they have been taught, which helps the new skills to become well-learned. Carefully matched decodable books ensure that children never encounter words that they are unable to decode or recognise, thereby allowing them to experience success at each stage.” Nikki Balke from Spectronics said soft ware offers an opportunity to help with peer to peer, or teacher to student interaction that was not available in the past. “Most soft ware packages are intended so the teacher can

design activities specific to their students and classroom environments. These can be for students with relatively low special considerations through to those with severe learning impairments whilst also catering for students with minimal learning difficulty. “We hear of more and more special needs students who are loving getting involved with virtual and augmented reality environments which can be individually designed by a teacher for specific teaching areas. Inclusive learning technologies are another addition to the myriad of resources that are available to teachers to ensure the classroom environment readily caters for all types of learners,” Ms Balke said. When considering the best

EDUCATION

way to set up your classroom, Ms Balke said it is important to take into account not only teaching aides, but also different areas that students can interact with or just chill out in depending on how they are feeling throughout the day. “Some students respond well to calming light patterns or manipulatives (fidget style toys), whereas others are more hands on and have specific areas of interest. The use of comfort items work well with some students, and others benefit from quiet places or even audio reducing devices to help with noise sensitivity. Visual schedules, timers and other visual supports enable positive self-regulating classroom behaviours as well as promoting independence in students without the need for verbal prompting.” Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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Make yourself heard: IP paging and PA systems By Gemma Easton, Editor

If you have something to say, and the whole school needs to hear it, a central PA system is your best method of broadcast. Technological advancements in recent years have seen a shift to IP (Internet Protocol) paging and PA systems. Like traditional hard-wired systems, IP PA systems allow for broad, one-way communication. Rather than relying on hard wiring, though, IP systems use the internet for broadcast. This means these systems are not limited by conventional wiring requirements. Some systems, when combined with software, can even broadcast messages to devices including phones, and transcribe announcements to text. The reach and versatility of messages, then, is increased. Removing the limitations of physical wiring can also make accessing the outer limits of the school easier. Ovals, swimming pools and industrial workshop spaces, which are often set some distance from classrooms, can be covered by IP powered systems. IP paging and PA systems make school wide communication simple and flexible. School bells, critical for the smooth running of a school day, can be automated, and easily adjusted for special events, or exam blocks. Different sounds or songs can be used, which can build a sense of excitement and fun into the school day. Volume adjustments may be useful for students with sensory sensitivities. Some systems allow for the isolation of school bells, meaning it can be heard in one area of a school, but not another. This can be useful for schools with both a primary and secondary school on the same site. It may also be useful if one cohort, in a separate section of the school, is operating under a different

timetable for a period of time. Similarly, bells could be turned off in a section of the school if there was a performance in progress, or if a class or group was undertaking a recording. In an emergency, IP paging and PA systems can broadcast school wide updates. Software solutions can also allow staff to activate emergency broadcasts, which then operate automatically. Activating music to indicate a lockdown, for example, which will then continue to play until the situation has been resolved can be facilitated. Portable PA systems ensure effective communication can continue at events, such as sport days, large group excursions or school camps, and outdoor performances. These systems can integrate microphones and speakers, and can be scaled up or down depending on discrete requirements.

What the experts recommend for IP school paging and PA systems Paul Matthews from PA Matthews Audio said existing infrastructure is the key consideration for upgrading a school wide PA system. “If you have a conventional 100v line PA system but limited network infrastructure, then it’s going to be best to continue with the 100v line technology. Make sure an upgraded system includes speakers in every teaching space as a minimum, and that areas are sectored so you can isolate them from bell signals for exams etc.

Image courtesy of PA Matthews Audio

could be compromised by power loss during an emergency. “Ideally the system should include a UPS (uninterruptible power supply). As a bare minimum the system must be able to restore itself quickly after a power outage and not rely on humans to restart anything. “Emergency tone controls should be via physical buttons and not a touch screen interface, which could fail and prevent the system from being triggered. Remote battery-operated buttons should never be used, as these could be found to be flat when critical need arises.”

On portable PA units, Mr Matthews said the power supply is the main consideration. “If you can use mains power only, just about any powered speaker option is going to do the job efficiently, with higher power, lighter weight and lower cost. If you intend to use a portable PA more than once a week in a particular location, consider a permanent installation instead.” Linus Pinto from Advance Netsolutions shared his insights on the key considerations for schools when installing or upgrading their paging and PA systems.

“IP based systems should always utilise separate network infrastructure to avoid the blame game that comes when different contractors blame each other for faults”. A school wide PA system used for evacuation and lock down, Mr Matthews said, must not rely on shared IP network infrastructure to operate, as this ADMINISTRATION

Image courtesy of Advance Netsolutions

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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Schools should consider if the new PA technology is IP based; if the new system can integrate with existing legacy PA hardware, and if the new system can integrate with the school IP phone system. School’s should also think about whether the new system is modular, with the capability to grow with the school’s requirements in term of features, zones and speaker numbers. Finally, the system should be easy enough to manage and administer by school staff, for creating bell schedules, making adds and changes. “Prerecorded Emergency Announcements can be triggered by pressing a button on the wall panel for standalone systems. If the PA system is integrated with the phone system, the process can be

sped up by dialling a code on the phone handset to trigger emergency announcements. IP PA systems also offer integration with mobiles to enable calling the system remotely to trigger emergency announcements and tones. Third party devices like fire alarm and building automation systems can also be integrated to trigger emergency announcements when there is an event.” Mr Pinto said.

campus ensuring everyone is informed of impending events.”

“To enhance effectiveness emergency audio announcements can be complemented by integrating visual alerts like LED flashers or strobes for hearing impaired and high noise areas. IP LCD / LED clocks and messaging displays can also be integrated to display emergency messages at prominent locations throughout the building or

“A common feature when designing PA systems is creating zones throughout the school giving teachers the ability to isolate certain areas as required. For example, the library or school hall during exam periods.

When it comes to School PA systems, Michael Kaloudis, Director of Prolinx Audio Visual, believes there is a requirement for both traditional 100-volt line PA systems and IP based PA systems. “Both have a place depending on the application and both options offer a great solution,” he said.

“The main system encoder has inputs for background music and the bell timer allows for the playback of school bells, alerts,

and evacuation notices or tones. There is also a Do Not Disturb option that prevents background music and allows emergency and PA tones only,” Mr Kaloudis said. “If the school already has an existing analogue system in place, a 100V/IP hybrid solution can allow both systems to be combined as another cost-effective option. “We also believe outdoor COLA PA systems are a great option as well. These are ideal for various events including school carnivals, sporting events, outdoors fetes and so on. “Portable PA systems are beneficial as well, as they are mobile and can be linked together wirelessly to cover a much larger area if required.”

Images courtesy of Prolinx Audio Visual

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Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Does your school PA system comply with the latest standards? Talk to the experts.

Prolinx Audio Visual can supply & install the latest REDBACK PA system including bell timer with lockdown/emergency functions, internal & external paging, wireless microphones & Bluetooth connectivity. Australian made Redback products have a proven track record for reliability & ease of use for over 45 years.

Contact Prolinx for an obligation free site visit & assessment of your current PA system. Vendor ID 100490170.

Approved Systems Integrator Prolinx Pty Ltd Unit 16/54 Beach Street, Kogarah NSW 2217 T: 1300 720 870 M: 0416 021 009 E: info@prolinx.com.au W: www.prolinx.com.au Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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CASE STUDY

Performance solutions with portable staging

Image courtesy of Transtage

By Gemma Easton, Editor

Flexibility and versatility are important in all areas of a school. For performance and assembly areas, portable staging is a great solution. Transtage Managing Director Kevin, said that portable stages are widely used in schools, even when a permanent stage is already available in the school hall. “The portable stage adds a lot of flexibility to the school’s use. Since most permanent stages have been built at a fixed size, the portable stage can easily be added onto the permanent stage to extend its size when there is a larger event that requires a bigger stage,” Kevin said.

“Additionally, due to its portability, you can set up a portable stage anywhere within the school, whether indoors or outdoors. The location is no longer a restriction on where your event can be hosted. Having a set of portable stages is a great addition to the permanent stage for many schools, as it provides them with more possibilities in how their events can be set up.” Nepean High School enjoys the options portable staging provides. In 2019, the school purchased 28SQM of staging from Transtage. The stage was so easy to set up, transport and store that the school is now in the process of doubling its inventory of portable staging. “When it comes to assisting schools in selecting the right portable stage solution, our first step is to understand how

they intend to use the stage, as each school has unique requirements. Nepean High School reached out to us for a solution,” Kevin said. “They needed a stage that is easy to set up, allowing maintenance staff or teachers, with the help of senior students, to handle the setup; is compact enough to fit into their storage rooms, which are already quite crowded with other school equipment; and is portable, as they plan to set up the stage in various locations depending on the event. “Based on these requirements, we proposed a solution: a 7m x 4m stage that can accommodate small to medium events. Since the stage deck weighs only 36 kg, it can be easily set up by two people. Additionally, we provided the school with a transportation

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trolley that allows them to pack the entire stage into a compact unit. This not only fits into their storage room but also makes it convenient to move the stage to the desired location. “One of the highlights of Transtage’s portable stage is its modular design, which allows for easy expansion. It functions similarly to a LEGO system, allowing panels to be added when needed. “Nepean High School contacted us again this year, requesting more stage decks as they require an even larger stage.” Kevin recommends portable stages for all schools as a great option to increase the size and functionality of fixed stages, allow for event set up indoors and outdoors, and provide flexibility around the size and location of performances.

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Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Enhancing security in school: Budget-friendly strategies for access control upgrades In today’s rapidly evolving world, security concerns have become paramount, and educational institutions are no exception. Schools in Australia face unique challenges when it comes to ensuring the safety and security of their students, staff, and valuable assets. Upgrading to smart electronic access control systems can significantly improve security, but the upfront expenses can be a concern. This article explores budget-friendly strategies for implementing access control upgrades while maximising the impact on school security.

Conduct a no-risk trial To overcome the apprehension associated with implementing a new access control system, schools can conduct a no-risk trial. By installing electronic locks in a high-traffic area, such as the

main administrative building, administrators can assess the system’s suitability, ease of use, and compatibility with existing infrastructure. This hands-on experience helps evaluate its effectiveness in meeting the school’s specific needs.

Gradual implementation of access control Budget constraints need not prevent schools from enhancing security. A phased approach can be adopted, starting with high-traffic areas like main entrances, administrative offices, and critical facilities. This incremental implementation allows schools to improve security in a cost-effective manner.

Scalability for future expansion Modern access control technologies offer scalability, ensuring the system can grow alongside the school’s budget. As

the budget expands, additional access points, features, and accommodations for a growing student population can be integrated into the existing access control system.

Reallocation of rekeying funds When security concerns or personnel changes necessitate re-keying locks, consider reallocating those funds into smart access control because it provides superior security, convenience, and traceability, eliminating the need for physical keys and their associated risks.

Exploring insurance coverage Depending on a school’s policies and circumstances, it may be possible to utilise insurance funds for access control upgrades. By contacting the insurance provider, schools can explore redirecting funds to invest in a

robust system that significantly enhances school security. Enhancing the access control system in schools is not only a matter of convenience but also a crucial investment in the safety and well-being of the entire school community. By employing strategies such as no-risk trials, gradual implementation, scalability, and re-keying fund reallocation, schools can overcome budgetary concerns and ensure effective security measures. Proactive security solutions not only protect students, staff, and valuable assets but also provide peace of mind in an increasingly uncertain world. SALTO Systems is a trusted smart access control provider for over 800 Australian and New Zealand schools. SALTO’s electronic locks cover all access points such as doors, gates, servers and more. The software can integrate with many existing systems, and incorporates a feature set that will make school management easier. See below for our contact details, we’d love to help.

Get the security features your school needs with SALTO Join the SALTO family, trusted by 800+ schools across Australia and New Zealand. info.oceania@saltosystems.com +61 3 8683 9782 saltosystems.com.au View our success story with Yarrabilba SSC, QLD

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

ADMINISTRATION

More good news for Accessit Library Queensland State Government Approval As leaders in Library management systems for over 25 years, the team are known for making sure their software is designed with the real-life users of the library in mind. From an easyto-use Web App for students and a backend for librarians that can be as powerful as you want it to be, they have spent years refining and working with librarians to keep the system at the forefront of library technology. This work has been recognised with the news that Accessit Library is now an approved OLMS provider by the Queensland State Government. “Queensland has always been very strict with what it lets into its schools, and we are excited that after a thorough process of validation Accessit Library can now be purchased and implemented by schools looking for a change,” says AJ Johnston, Accessit Library representative. “We have had so many schools come to us wanting to use Accessit, and we are excited to now be able to make that happen easily.” The approval means schools can go directly to Accessit Library as an option and no longer need to “jump through hoops” to change library systems, something that had been an issue in the past for state managed schools.

“We can now confidently say we can supply the software for your library that you want and know we can make it happen easily, from data migration to implementation on the school’s network” says Mr Johnston.

Growing the team locally Accessit announced more good news as it bolsters the local support team they are known for, with the company hiring two new “very qualified and experienced” support staﬀ who join the Australian support team. With an aim to recruit locals who know Accessit inside-and-out, the Australian team have both IT and librarian support staﬀ, with many schools using them as a

quick phone-call for help when they are stuck and under time pressure to get things done. The team also oﬀer regular webinars to upskill librarians, providing PD at no extra cost, and also manage the Accessit community forums which is a way for librarians to share their ideas and solutions in a friendly and positive space. “We are excited to have Deborah and Trudi join the team in South Australia and Queensland respectively,” says Sarah Jordan, Chief Customer Support Oﬀ icer. “It’s great to have more local support, and having librarians with such pedigree means we know they can help other librarians in the best possible way.”

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Accessit has seen its worldwide staff grow to more than 60 as it sees more schools make the switch to the software across the globe, with many new positions being filled by support staff as this has been recognised as a key differentiator that makes the software company stand out in the market. “We see great things happening in Australia and we are excited to give schools the chance to take their library from “it’s good” to “it’s GREAT!” with a software that makes sense.” Said Mr Johnston. “Too many software providers are set and forget these days and we want to ensure we maintain our place as not just leading the way in terms of software, but also in supporting it.” Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

ADMINISTRATION

Seating solutions for maximum learning engagement By Sarah Davison, Industry Reporter

Ideas about teaching are evolving, and classrooms are changing along with them. New pedagogies that focus on collaborative work and learner-centred education require classrooms to be redesigned, to facilitate this next generation of learners. Creating a more free-flowing learning environment, with flexible seating options, allows

students to thrive. This can be extended to libraries, sciences labs, and auditoriums to allow students to engage with their learning environment in a way that supports their individual needs.

classroom when they can choose their own seats, and are given freedom to move around when needed – for example, to better see the board, to decompress or to move away from a chatty neighbour.

Global market research released in 2022 by Mordor Intelligence, indicated that flexible seating is becoming a staple of the classroom environment. Chairs that allow students to choose where and how they sit while they learn are increasingly important in today’s classrooms.

Active seating is increasingly gaining traction as a flexible seating option, by encouraging students to make use of a much wider variety of seating options such as pedal desks, stand-up desks and wobble stools.

Educators report that children take more ownership of the

While traditionally schools have encouraged students to ‘sit up straight’ in the classroom, recent studies

have shown that movement, when channelled correctly, can actually help students focus. In fact, a 2008 research study found that children, particularly those with ADHD or ADD, need to move while conducting a complicated mental task. “Children, especially those with ADHD fidgeted more when a task required them to store and process information rather than just hold it,” the study read. “This is why students are often restless while doing math or reading, but not while watching a movie.”

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For students who are prone to wriggling or fidgeting, traditional classroom seating may cause more harm than good, with students often resorting to rocking or leaning their chair back, potentially leading to accidents and injury. Furniture Industry Research Association argued that, unlike traditional classroom seating, active seating “accommodates natural movements and boasts a range of benefits including better spinal positions, muscle stimulation, blood circulation, and neurochemical processes that promote concentration”. In addition to active seating, beanbags and soft seating options are becoming increasingly popular for their inherent flexibility and comfort. Unlike traditional chairs, school beanbags mould to support a child’s neck, shoulders, and head, and can help to improve overall posture. For reading nooks or quiet learning zones, beanbags provide a comfortable seating option to help students relax and enjoy their reading time. Additionally, beanbags can provide

therapeutic benefits to children prone to sensory overload, with the cocooning effect of the beanbag helping to self-regulate. At its core, flexible seating asks students to be more aware of their own needs as learners and as people. For instance, if a child recognises that they are feeling overwhelmed or restless, they can decompress on a fitness ball, or sit with a book on a beanbag.

We spoke to some experts in seating to ﬁnd out more about flexible seating options Jeff Morren, Managing Director of IntraSpace, said the conventional classroom arrangement — where desks are arranged in rows, and a board stands upfront — has become too inflexible. “Schools emphasising collaborative work and learner-focused education has pushed for classrooms that facilitate these updated programs. Classroom furniture holds the potential to significantly influence students’ learning mentality. “Incorporating flexible seating in a classroom setting goes

beyond just adding diverse and amusing seats. It entails leveraging the opinions and preferences of students, fostering their engagement, promoting group work, and catering to their learning environment requirements. “A flexible classroom might include features like innovative seating solutions, like beanbag chairs, wobbly stools, and exercise balls, offering students the freedom to move around the classroom. These unconventional chairs facilitate both individual and collaborative work and provide students with greater autonomy and comfort than a standard desk chair. “The use of adjustable standing desks empowers students to manage their work environment as per their requirements, anytime. Incorporating cushions and mats for floor seating can aid in enhancing students’ concentration on their work by eliminating the need to constantly adjust their posture. Sitting at a desk for prolonged periods can be a source of interruption for students who struggle with maintaining a stationary position.”

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Helen Jones from Furnware said that for focussed work and extended periods of sitting, a good ergonomic student chair that fits students correctly is important. “For more casual, collaborative learning soft furniture items such as couches or ottomans are a great addition, either positioned around a central table or booth style. For maximum flexibility and future proofing, modular designs with larger items on castors ensure settings can be reconfigured as required. “Tiered seating continues to be a prevalent feature in modern learning spaces, achieved by adding high tables and stools into spaces. This varied approach to seating height creates interest, making a space more dynamic and providing good line of sight for both students and educators. “For younger students, beanbags are a great casual option for individual reading or quiet time, although it pays to check the filling is not too noisy as this can create distraction. Shaped upholstered items also continue to be popular, adding an element of fun and increased postural support to low seating. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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shell, making them long lasting and aesthetically pleasing. “Modular soft seating is a great option for students to move and create collaborative spaces for group activities and project work. Beanbag chairs and mini ottomans are another great alternative. Giving students the option of what they would like to sit on, whether it be a stool, seat, or floor cushion, can create a more exciting environment in the classroom.”

Image courtesy of Sebel

“Floor cushions allow younger students to move seating to the activity, or to a space where they feel safe and ready to learn. Floor cushions also work well when combined with low kneeling tables as an affordable solution for collaborative learning for younger students.” Annabel Parletta from Resource Furniture said that flexibility, sustainability, and innovation are key elements schools look for in seating. “Chairs that stack

and can be easily moved are the best options for continuously transforming learning spaces. Soft furnishings are great for breakout areas. Keeping these on castors helps to easily create different collaborative and independent learning spaces. “Primary schools’ trend towards bright and bolder colours such as oranges and blues to enhance excitement and creativity for younger students. A mixed variety of chairs are being seen,

rather than your ‘normal’ four leg student chair. Soft seating and stools can be introduced to create different levels and creative areas,” Ms Parletta said. “Senior schools are using more muted colours such as salmon pink, sage greens, and taupe, with minimalistic styles. Sled base chairs have become more popular as they are easier to move around on carpeted areas. These chairs are primarily steel based with a polypropylene

Emma Yourell from Sebel said that modular furniture is important in designing a classroom layout, as it allows educators to create settings for all ages. “Ensure that the products selected are fun, flexible and comfortable. When picking the right seating for classrooms, schools generally opt for easy to move, lightweight and stackable chairs. This allows for the classroom to be altered easily based on the learning mode being used. “Flexible furniture in the classroom can include modular seating that can be configured

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Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

in a multitude of ways, with castors which make creating new spaces within minutes easy for both students and teachers,” Ms Yourell said. “We’re seeing schools opt for darker colours when it comes to selecting colourways for their seating. This is because they are easier to keep clean. There is also a trend toward furniture that is environmentally friendly. “Active seats that allow students to rock and move easily in different directions are a great tool to make the learning environment fun, and are a perfect option to help keep active children focused on learning. “Round seating pads and large square cushions are great floor seating options for breakout spaces, reading zones or relaxation time. Sitto-stand solutions are ideal for collaborative work around benches for learning spaces like science labs, food tech rooms, STEAM rooms and art rooms.” Stephen Richards from Batger has noticed a trend in some schools toward a more

Image courtesy of Intraspace

traditional presentation style of learning. “There are still a lot of soft furnishings and contemporary style seating being used in breakout spaces and common areas. A definite shift, though towards incorporating more traditional set ups in classrooms is happening. In

this set up, chairs are very space efficient as they stack well for easy classroom reconfiguration, and storage.

stand. This can really change

“Bar height tables with stools are also very good for maximising space, allowing the student the flexibility to either sit or

above the window line – which

the dynamic of a learning space. Utilising stools will often put the students’ line of sight reduces the feeling of being boxed in especially if there is a bit of green space outside.”

Flexible Seating Solutions Future-proof your classrooms and learning spaces with flexible seating solutions! IntraSpace works with education providers across Australia to design, supply, and install furnishing solutions that maximise the best use of classrooms and library space. We can refresh floor layouts via flexible seating solutions. With a wide range of products and services on offer, IntraSpace works with you to design and build effective and efficient learning spaces. IntraSpace offers complimentary consultation as an opportunity to workshop ideas with you on-site and generate plans for flexible seating solutions to suit your needs.

Get in touch today!

Call 1800 800 573 or visit www.intraspace.com.au

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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CASE STUDY

Images courtesy of Resource Furniture

Flexible spaces for flexible minds: Resource Furniture By Gemma Easton, Editor

Trent Driver, Principal at Scotch College Adelaide, believes there are four drivers of effective learning, and together, they shape the tone, feel and rigour of any experience in a school. They are the deliberate work of a teacher, the students’ engagement, the idea or concept itself, and the physical environment in which it all takes place.

“Flexibility of mind and flexibility of thinking can’t come from static set ups; student agency can’t come from an environment where students have no control of the space,” Mr Driver said. It was this approach and way of thinking that framed the design and development of a new wellbeing and sports centre at Scotch College: Purruna, Spencer Newton Centre. Challenging the traditional classroom set up, Purruna offers space to learn and then think flexibly, nourish the body and mind, and support students to become active global citizens.

Community consultation made it clear that the College’s sporting facilities needed updating. The College Council and Leadership Team decided that any building project to address this need had to be more than just a pool and a gym. The two-storey building comprises classrooms, consulting rooms, two indoor courts, fitness suites, a swimming centre, café and communal spaces. Purruna is designed to enhance the wellbeing of all year groups. The building was designed by architects Hames Sharley, with furniture solutions provided

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by Resource Furniture. Hames Sharley Associate Director Yaara Plaves said the architects have worked with Resource in the past and have been impressed by the quality of the products, and the service. “We chose Resource Furniture because they are local manufacturers that align with our vision for the development. A group of teachers, students and staff from Scotch College visited the Resource Furniture showroom, where everyone got to experience the furniture in action and decide what works best for them,” Mr Plaves said.

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

fifteen-year-old. That demands a robustness and quality in a product to ensure its longevity in a school, and we are conscious that the way furniture is ultimately used will evolve from the use cases we imagined in design phases,” Mr Driver said. “Students can configure spaces in ways we did not anticipate, and our range of furniture in the building is serving that successfully.

Images courtesy of Resource Furniture

“We came with ideas of what we wanted and worked together to agree on selections. Resource helped to facilitate the process and make sure everyone was involved and represented.” Emma Gillings from Resource Furniture said the team collaborated with the interior designers to come up with furniture choices that were appropriate for the spaces and their intended use. Throughout

the project, a commitment to sustainability and renewable resources was championed. “The architects were very clear that they were favouring locally manufactured product and sustainably made furniture,” Ms Gillings said. “Our Edge Plus High Back seating is Resource Furniture designed and locally manufactured in South Australia, so we put this forward as an option.

“We redesigned this product slightly to accommodate the requirement to make the furniture mobile, so the sled bases were replaced by castors and the seat base made deeper to keep the height of the overall seat.” In selecting furniture, Scotch College kept both the user and the use in mind. “In Purruna we are conscious that the median user of our furniture is a

“I am intrigued that the learning spaces in the building are the first choices for students in study periods where they are looking for somewhere to work independently or collaboratively – that speaks volumes to me as to how the building is driving learning. “Purruna is a wellbeing centre at its core, and the blend of formal and informal interactions between staff and students is central to its impact. These interactions are wellbeing programs in practice, they are where a difference is made, and the environment that enables them is core to their success.”

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Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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Bob Hawke College:

Best practice makes perfect By Integrate AV

As a state-of-the-art school built from the ground-up, Bob Hawke College presented the Department of Education in Western Australia with an opportunity to truly rethink what innercity learning looks like in the digital age. Their leading attitude towards technology as a pedagogical tool enables teachers and students to integrate the most modern methods of study into their daily lives seamlessly. Found in almost every room of Bob Hawke College, from the library to the principal’s office, 58 ActivPanels reflect the school’s wider approach to wastage and sustainability – with long-lasting, updatable technology that works in harmony with a clever BYOD policy. Bob Hawke College was designed to fit into its surroundings. From the ceiling-floor windows that give the impression that you’re among the treetops, to the wide Gallery room that displays not only the artwork of the students, but also the heritage architecture of the surrounding town, it’s clear that every aspect of this school has been meticulously thought-out. “Usually, a town is designed around a school, but we had to fit into an existing urban space, which factored heavily into the architectural design,” explains Nicole Cooper, Manager Corporate Services at Bob Hawke College. “It also meant we had a chance to really make some bold, positive changes to what a school can look like and how it can operate.” Bob Hawke College embraces a holistic and sustainable approach to learning, permeating everything the school does. Small things you notice as you watch

Bob Hawke College. Images courtesy of Integrate AV

The tech-forward and innovative spirit integrates seamlessly into the school

the day-to-day operations of the school reflect this attitude. For example, at the beginning of the lesson children collect files from a class-specific container, with all the resources and workbooks they need for that period. Students then have less to carry to and from school, encouraging economic transportation to school via walking, biking or public transport. The college’s bring your own device (BYOD) policy means less wastage, allowing students to make full

use of the technology readily available to them and reducing budget allocation to devices that will ultimately require replacing.

Transparency at the heart of learning Transparency is a word that comes to mind often when touring the halls of Bob Hawke College. It is apparent in a literal sense in the glass walls of the classrooms, giving the rooms a modern, museum exhibition

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quality. These walls offer a symbolic kind of transparency also, giving onlookers an opportunity to learn how others are teaching and learning, encouraging pedagogical best practice to spread throughout the school’s staff and students. The extra-wide hallways of the school allow students to move from class to class with ease within the college, which had to focus on building upwards rather than outwards inside its limited land space. These hallways host an array of soft learning spaces; during class time they are filled with break-out groups, studying independently in these flexible learning areas.

Country-leading approach to technology From its conception, Bob Hawke College was earmarked by the Education and Training Minister for WA to be leading in its use of technology. And, like its other core values, this techforward and innovative spirit integrates seamlessly into the school’s day-to-day operations. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Images courtesy of Integrate AV

When deciding on the technology that would serve as the foundation of lesson delivery at the school, planners initially investigated projectorbased interactive whiteboards (IWBs), but swiftly realised their investment would be better spent on a product with less maintenance requirements and more longevity in the market, meaning greater value for money in the long-run. The school wanted to buy a product that had potential for regular system updates (without the parts replacement required of IWBs) and a range of userfriendly features that would intuitively fit into the lives of staff, both of which they found in the ActivPanel. “We were futureproofing our edtech investment,” remarks Nicole. “Keeping up with technology that goes out of date and can’t be updated without parts replacement would have been too costly in the long run.”

What’s more, the panels’ ability to connect to a wide range of devices is the perfect complement to the school’s BYOD policy, reducing the need to allocate budget towards additional compatible devices.

training offered by Promethean was scarcely needed. “The installation process was so good,” recalls Nicole. “I don’t want to say, ‘plug and play’, but that’s honestly how it felt. We installed the panels without issue and since then they’ve been very easy to set up and get going.”

Learning for life

their work aloud, he invites them to come to the front and draw an X on his table where they feel their work belongs. This exercise in self-assessment also provides transparency, as students have a chance to learn how their classmates have approached the task.

The panels are multi-purposed, used throughout the school for a range of subjects and by the administrative staff in brainstorming and forward planning. During COVID-19 restrictions, the ActivPanels proved to be a valuable addition to the hiring process of new staff and teachers, allowing interviews to be conducted remotely through Teams. Potential candidates are able to create teaching presentations that they can then share to the hiring panel through screen sharing.

The college aims go above simply teaching students, but in creating lifelong learners by the end of their high school experience. Students are active in their learning process – reflective of their own work. This was demonstrated in a Year 7 introductory lesson to essay-writing, where teacher Sam Marsh displays a dynamic “awesomeness scale” table onto the room’s ActivPanel. Sam uses the Timer app as students write their sample body paragraphs. Then, after reading

Integrate AV is a Promethean Platinum Partner and has a dedicated education team who can assist you with an interactive flat panel solution for your school. Integrate AV is a supplier on contract with the NSW Department of Education Multimedia Solutions 278 State Contract, QLD Department of Education Standing Offer QEDSOA-71789 and the Tasmanian Information and Communication Hardware C150 contract.

The college installed 58 ActivPanels in over 50 rooms throughout the school, from the principal’s office to the art room, with the remaining panels mounted onto mobile stands to go where needed.

Plug and play Training sessions were conducted with a small group of teachers, who then went on to support their colleagues in upskilling, sharing ideas and new ways of using the panels in their own sessions. Ultimately, the ease of use of the panels meant that the extensive support and Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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The power of technology for learning and teaching By Gemma Easton, Editor

Technology is ubiquitous in modern classrooms. Interactive whiteboards, computers, ipads, and VR headsets are commonplace. With these devices comes a range of software options to enhance learning, catering for different learning styles and a broad scope of activities. One small scale study conducted in a tertiary US context demonstrated the potential of technology to improve student engagement. The study found that student participation in class, preparation for class, attentiveness, learning and impression of the course and instructor tends to improve when technology is well utilised.

may need extra support to understand a learning activity. Cloud based work and file sharing systems mean students do not need to be in the same classroom to complete group work. Collaboration between different students and class groups is easily undertaken.

Projects can also be enriched with the aid of technology, and students can be encouraged to incorporate rich multi-media into their work, including video, sound, animation and graphics. With technology and connectivity an inevitable part of young people’s lives,

Images courtesy of BenQ

All students can benefit from technology in the classroom. Learning can become selfpaced, with software options to facilitate self-directed progress. Some programs will prompt a student to practise a concept until they fully understand it, ensuring each student meets required standards. Programs can also alert teachers to students who

it is important students are taught digital literacy. This can be taught in house, on a regular basis, for example each time students browse the internet to find a reliable research source, or teaching a balance between screen time and offline time. Your school may wish to engage the services of an outside provider to teach safe technology use to students. This can be extended to staff as a professional learning opportunity. Staff may also benefit from PLD to help them make the most of technology in the classroom. Often, the company that has provided devices or software will provide training and support to ensure staff can use technology efficiently. Specialist companies can also be engaged, to teach students and staff how to use technology to study efficiently, keep notes digitally and organise files. To find out more about emerging technology trends and how these can be used in the classroom, School News spoke to Simon Port, Regional VP Sales, UKI & ANZ, at Promethean. Mr Port said modern technology solutions represent a new frontier in the classroom.

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Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

“Interactive devices, including front-of-class displays, change how teachers can present content and engage with their students. “The potential of interactive devices can be seen in popular teaching methods, including gamification and ‘flipping the classroom’. As digital natives working with a central interactive device, students can take different roles including becoming a presenter, creator, or even delivering a ‘student as teacher’ session,” Mr Port said. “Soft ware can assist teachers in the classroom, and support them with wider school tasks and processes. Repeat administrative tasks such as taking the register or uploading lesson content to school management soft ware are made easier with effective technology, especially cloud-connected devices which enable seamless sharing and collaboration. “For students, the benefits of carefully chosen soft ware are plentiful. Individual demands and learning styles can be specifically catered to, improving engagement and outcomes. Access to soft ware can also build students’ confidence, with the ability for them to demonstrate their knowledge in different ways. “A key benefit of interactive front-of-class displays is simply that they put more tools at teachers’ fingertips, unlocking a wide range of brilliant learning activities. After all, teachers will always be the driving creative force within the classroom – it’s about empowering them to do what they do best,” Mr Port said. “Managing content for interactive displays should be seen as an opportunity.

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Images courtesy of Promethean

Where teachers have traditionally created individual lesson materials and worked from textbooks, there’s now much more scope for resource sharing and collaboration within schools. “Some lessons may draw directly from online apps and resources like Google Maps. Without needing to create significant content beforehand, teachers can take students on an interactive journey through environments they’ve been exploring during lessons. “Students could also be encouraged to share video or photography projects – or take a multimedia approach. Students enjoy seeing their work come to life, and it can act as a springboard for peer review and discussion activities. “Crucially, modern interactive devices represent an investment which makes a difference across the curriculum – from STEM subjects to arts and humanities. Schools can make conscious, futureproof

investments that support their staff for years to come.” Martin Moelle, Managing Director of BenQ Australia, outlines how classroom technology is re-engaging students. “As collaborative technology like interactive displays continue to develop, they increasingly mirror the functionality of some devices, like mobile phones. With built in Google enabled Android operating systems and familiar apps and experiences, students are being drawn back to lesson content. Kids especially want to use these devices to participate and collaborate, resulting in curriculum being delivered in an engaging and gamified way. “For teachers, access to a powerful collaborative whiteboard allows for preparation, control, and delivery of lesson content. Having the ability to change and manipulate lessons on the fly can breathe new life into restricted and tethered lesson plans.

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“Having network and cloud drives connected to the display can save time and hassle, when sharing and accessing files, often with several options within tapping distance. To go a step further, teachers can even log in with an NFC card, giving them access to their own personal workspace and files without having to type their passwords in front of students.” As well as improved learning outcomes, Mr Moelle pointed to the health and safety benefits of classroom technology. “Having a device that offers not only amazing functionality, but also safety features like germ resistance, eye care and physical design elements can assist educators in delivering their “healthy classroom” promise to students and their parents. With classroom air quality still inadequate in many learning spacing, being able to measure and track metrics like CO2 concentration is invaluable when keeping engagement and attention at the highest level.”

2023 PRE EVENT COVERAGE

24-25th August, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, Melbourne

Career Calling International:

Your pathway to success

in a globalised world In today’s interconnected global economy, organisations face unprecedented challenges and opportunities. To thrive in this dynamic landscape, it is crucial to have a partner who understands the intricacies of the global workforce, compliance requirements, and the need for continuous professional development. Welcome to Career Calling International, your gateway to success in today’s global economy. At Career Calling International, we are more than just a training organisation. We are a leading Global Talent Development Corporation dedicated to preparing individuals and organisations for excellence. Our comprehensive programs and services are designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and mindset required to succeed in a rapidly evolving global marketplace. Our passionate and diverse team at Career Calling International works closely with clients to provide custom-tailored solutions that address the challenges of managing across cultures. Through information seminars, specially designed programs, comprehensive research material, training and assessment resources, auditing and risk management solutions, and supportive networking events, we

our team is here to support you every step of the way.

support your professional endeavors in today’s fastpaced global economy. As part of our commitment to your success, we offer a range of services through our subsidiary, Career Calling Jobs. Beyond job opportunities, Career Calling Jobs provides professional development and personal growth opportunities that are vital for career advancement. We also offer immigration and visa assistance, as well as consultancy services, to ensure a smooth transition for international candidates seeking career opportunities. Our dedication to excellence extends to supporting

Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and Higher Education providers with compliance and quality assurance through our subsidiary, CAQA. With CAQA as your dedicated partner, you can rest assured that your organisation will operate with the highest standards of compliance. Our experienced team specialises in the Vocational Education Training and Higher Education industry, providing comprehensive guidance and support to help you meet regulatory and licensing requirements. From developing compliant policies and procedures to conducting internal and external audits,

“With over 25,000 fully editable training resources in our extensive library, we cater to the diverse needs of vocational education, professional development, and industry-specific training.”

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At CAQA Resources, another subsidiary of Career Calling International, we offer highquality training materials that meet regulatory and compliance standards. With over 25,000 fully editable training resources in our extensive library, we cater to the diverse needs of vocational education, professional development, and industry-specific training. Our meticulously crafted training materials engage learners, facilitate understanding, and enhance knowledge retention. The flexibility and customisability of our resources allow trainers and educators to tailor content, add branding, and adapt delivery methods to suit their specific training needs. In addition to our training resources, CAQA Systems provides cutting-edge learning management systems that revolutionise the learning experience. Our intuitive and robust platforms, including learner portals, trainer portals, staff portals, and student portals, empower educational institutions such as schools, colleges, RTOs, TAFEs, and universities to deliver seamless and engaging digital learning environments. With our comprehensive suite of tools and functionalities, learners can access course materials, complete assignments, engage in discussions, and track their progress, while trainers and educators can manage and deliver course content, monitor student performance, and facilitate interactive learning experiences. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

2023 PRE EVENT COVERAGE CAQA Digital, another subsidiary of Career Calling International, is your ultimate destination for all your digital media needs. Our skilled professionals are passionate about creating stunning and innovative digital media solutions, including mobile phone applications, fullyfledged websites, logo design, graphic design, multimedia solutions, virtual reality experiences, and harnessing the power of artificial intelligence. With our expertise and cuttingedge technologies, we help organisations harness the full potential of the digital world to enhance their brand presence and achieve their business objectives. To keep you informed and up-todate with the latest trends and developments in the vocational education and training sector in Australia, we bring you The VET Sector. As a magazine and newsletter available through the largest digital newsstand in the world, The VET Sector is your go-to source for in-depth articles, expert analysis, and valuable insights into the everevolving landscape of the VET sector. Our comprehensive coverage includes policy updates, industry trends, best practices, success stories, and the latest advancements in educational technology. Whether you are a professional,

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

24-25th August, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, Melbourne

Career Calling International is your comprehensive partner for professional development, technology solutions, language courses, and much more. With our experienced professionals and extensive range of services, we are committed to supporting your journey towards success. We understand your unique compliance, quality assurance, risk management, marketing, international management, and immigration challenges, and we are here to provide the expertise and guidance you need to thrive in a globalised world. educator, policymaker, or anyone involved in vocational education and training, The VET Sector empowers you with the knowledge and insights needed to navigate the dynamic VET landscape and discover new opportunities for growth and collaboration. At Career Calling International, we are committed to supporting your professional growth and development. Through our affiliated brands, including CAQA Skills, PD Web Solutions, Edu Learning, and CAQA EDU, we offer a wide array of workshops, seminars, and professional development sessions tailored to your needs. Whether you are looking to upskill, obtain industry certifications, or enhance your knowledge in a specific field, our diverse course offerings at

Career Calling Education, our registered training organisation (RTO), have got you covered. With our commitment to technology and innovation, we offer comprehensive hardware and soft ware solutions through CAQA Technologies. From personal computers to IT management soft ware, our range of products and services supports your technological needs, ensuring productivity and efficiency. Additionally, through our Commonwealth School of Languages, we offer language courses to help you learn new languages or improve your language skills. Our experienced instructors and immersive learning programs provide a supportive environment for language acquisition.

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Visit our website, careercalling.com.au, to explore our extensive range of services and take the first step towards a rewarding future with Career Calling International.

Prepare for success with Career Calling International, your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of the global economy and achieving excellence in your professional endeavors.

2023 PRE EVENT COVERAGE

24-25th August, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, Melbourne

Empowering educators to create balanced classes

Class Creator Class Creator empowers educators, providing all the tools they need to develop excellent classes for the beneﬁt of students, teachers and the wider school community. As all educators know, class lists are the foundations the school year is built on. Developing, managing, and maintaining class lists, though, can be confusing and time consuming. Elaborate systems involving sticky notes, and colour-coded spreadsheets are not the best solution. Struggling themselves with class lists, in 2014, an innovative Melbourne-based teaching couple decided enough was enough, and there had to be a better way! Fast forward nearly a decade, their brainchild Class Creator has coordinated more than 4 million student placements, saving schools thousands of hours of planning time. Developed, designed, and supported by educators, the software is flexible and easy to use. Now with offices in Australia and the United States, schools around the

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“Class Creator has been an excellent investment of school funds. It has made teachers feel valued and involved in the process by using the surveys and means that we collect information quick and easily for classes for next year. The support provided is excellent and goes above and beyond my highest expectations.” – Brooke Axam, Beverley Hills PS globe trust Class Creator to take the hassle out of making classes. Key to the program design is the acknowledgement that every school is different and will present its own set of challenges and circumstances. Making great classes is one of the most complex processes

in a school. With so many data points, requirements, requests, and restrictions it can quickly turn into a nightmare. The brilliant thing about using Class Creator, though, is that creating balanced classes no longer needs to be a painstaking, time consuming task at the end of the school year. Class Creator takes the

hassle out of making classes, by ensuring all the data is organised and displayed clearly, providing educators with all the tools they need to make great class lists. With the click of a button, educators can edit classes whilst receiving feedback in real-time, add and remove students at any stage and importantly, save all student history in one place. Joel Westley, General Manager’s top tip for making great classes is to start planning early – don’t leave it until November! Educators can record comments on factors such as student behaviours, academics, and friendships throughout the year, so no vital information is omitted from consideration when class lists are formed. Tracking information in realtime means educators do not need to recall all information for every student at once. More than 100,000 educators across the globe use Class Creator. The system has been designed to be super user-friendly, so it doesn’t require lengthy staff meetings or training sessions. If you can use an Excel spreadsheet or fill in a Google Form, you will find Class Creator a breeze!

Want to find out more about Class Creator and see the software firsthand? Visit Class Creator’s General Manager, Joel Westley at EduTECH in Melbourne on stand #1532 on August 24 and 25. If you can’t make it to EduTECH, visit https://www.classcreator.io/2023-schoolnews to register your interest and save 20% if you sign on.

TECHNOLOGY

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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2023 PRE EVENT COVERAGE

24-25th August, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, Melbourne

EduTECH 2023:

The event for everyone Images courtesy of EduTECH Australia

By Sarah Davison, Industry Reporter

Combining professional development, networking opportunities and all the latest innovations in the education space, Australia’s premier education conference, EduTECH, is a must attend event for everyone working in education. The education sector is constantly evolving. Technological developments, new research on best practice teaching and learning outcomes, and changes in the way schools run, mean staying up to date with emerging trends is vital.

With an estimated attendance of more than 10,000 from across K to 12, higher education, learning and development, and education infrastructure sectors, the 2023 conference promises to be the best yet. There is something for everyone with the conference agenda offering a diverse range of keynote presentations, panel discussions, and workshops delivered by leading experts, exploring the latest trends and innovations in education. Based at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, EduTECH will be held

over two days, in addition to a full day of pre-event workshops on August 23. A full conference program and expo floor will run on August 24 and 25, showcasing the latest technology and trends, and the most cuttingedge solutions impacting the education sector right now. EduTECH’s mission is to enhance education in Australia, with the conference set to promote innovative teaching methods and showcase new technology whilst fostering a love of lifelong learning.

Expanded program in 2023 Taking a future-forward approach, this year EduTECH is expanding its offering to include 10 payto-attend seminars, and 10 free-to-attend seminars taking place on the expo floor.

The largest education event in Australia, EduTECH covers the entire education lifecycle. The conference provides an opportunity for educators and industry leaders to network and collaborate, sharing insights and ideas on the future of education in Australia.

This year, conference attendees will hear from some big names in Australian education, including Erica Southgate, associate professor of emerging technologies for education at the University of Newcastle, Sandra Milligan, enterprise professor and director at the Assessment Research Centre at the Melbourne Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne; and Melanie Hughes, curriculum specialist of technologies at the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority.

Paid seminars will focus on the event’s core dedicated conference tracks: school leadership; school teachers; digital technologies; school ICT management; digital technology; higher education; vocational education and learning; and workplace learning. TECHNOLOGY

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Meet the ActivPanel 9 at EduTECH 2023 on Stand 1316 Learning, transformed 3URPHWKHDQȆV QH[W JHQHUDWLRQ interactive panel delivers our most UREXVW VHDPOHVV DQG VHFXUH XVHU H[SHULHQFH \HW Rich in features that respond to your unique needs, ActivPanel 9 is EXLOW IRU WKH HGXFDWLRQDO ODQGVFDSH of today and the future. To learn more, visit:

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Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

2023 PRE EVENT COVERAGE

24-25th August, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, Melbourne Sure to be of interest to all educators is the topical breakout session titled ChatGPT: Education’s hero or villain? Facilitated by Open LMS Global Manager, Customer Value Design Jaslyn Hughes, this session will examine how educators can leverage AI to enhance student learning, while also discussing the tools available to educators when reviewing student assignments for AI-generated content. Free breakout seminars will provide upskilling opportunities, with a focus on new knowledge areas and special interests including diverse education needs and inclusion; maths; music and performing arts; sports; wellbeing; future forward libraries; EdTECH innovation; and tertiary ICT management. Throughout the conference, the Demo Stage is sure to be a hub of activity, allowing exhibitors to present their latest products and insights on how they can improve learning outcomes. Innovation Alley, a space dedicated to start-ups, will allow educators to explore new innovations, and keen investors an opportunity to find their next project!

Opportunities for Professional Development For educators, the event is widely recognised as an invaluable opportunity to earn hours of qualified professional development. In fact, by participating in EduTECH’s pre-event workshops, attendees can gain up to six hours of professional development. Over a full-day, workshops will be hosted by qualified trainers and offer a hands-on learning experience and the chance to explore innovative ideas and emerging practices in teaching and learning.

Images courtesy of EduTECH Australia

These workshops include Computational Learning Adventures with Gary Stager; Building Esports into the Curriculum; Creating VR Learning Experiences; Rethinking STEM with LEGO Education; and Unlocking the power of Generative AI in Education with Grok Academy. Whether you are a teacher, administrator, or IT professional, these workshops offer targeted insights and practical skills to transform educational practices.

EduTECH prioritises networking Networking is another key focus of the conference, with EduTECH regarded as the single largest networking opportunity for educators in Australia. Attendees working across K to 12, tertiary professional development, and education infrastructure development will all have the opportunity to mingle and network while participating in this giant festival of education. To help promote a sense of community and encourage networking opportunities, dedicated networking sessions will be on offer, as well as facilitated meetings and even an app that enables matchmaking before, during, and after the event.

Additionally, EduTECH will be hosting a dedicated networking event, known as the EduPARTY, after the first day of the event. And the fun doesn’t end there. 2023 marks the return of the much-loved Gala Dinner featuring entertainment, a three-course meal as well as an engaging keynote speaker. The Ed-Innovation Celebration Gala Dinner will be hosted at the Forum by renowned comedian and TV personality Dave Hughes and will bring together education’s finest minds for an engaging and inspiring experience as well as an opportunity for attendees to celebrate and socialise.

Schools set to compete in esport tournament An exciting new addition will be introduced to the expo floor this year – a national esports tournament. Highlighting the positive impact esports can have on education, the tournament will feature schools from across Victoria as they battle it out to book their place to compete in State and National Finals at The FUSE Esports Festival on the Gold Coast in October. The tournament will be complemented by a preconference workshop, titled ‘Building Esports into the Curriculum’, led by MJ Raatz, head of department, digital technologies and business at Forest Lake State High School. The workshop will explore how to include esports across the

curriculum, using both online and offline gaming systems within the classroom. With reference to Australian Curriculum version 9, the workshop will look at how to embed these achievement standards into your planning. Participants will learn basic coaching principles, and learning resources so they can feel empowered to enhance their students’ learning by implementing esports into their own curriculum.

The event for everyone For anyone working in education, EduTECH 2023 is an unmissable opportunity to connect with industry colleagues and learn about the exciting innovations within the sector. By attending both the PreEvent Workshops and the Ed Innovation Celebration Gala Dinner in addition to the two-day conference, attendees can maximise their EduTECH experience and gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in education. Exhibitors and sponsors for EduTECH 2023 include Google for Education, Apple, Mircrosoft, Lenovo, Asus, HP, Samsung, Lego Education, Adobe, Honeywell, Grok Academy, ASI Solutions, Datacom, Vex Robotics, Zoom, and many others. EduTECH 2023 is supported by the Victorian Department of Education and Training, and Study Melbourne.

School News is pleased to offer readers an exclusive discount of 20% off the already discounted EduTECH base price. Use code SN20 to take advantage of this discount.

TECHNOLOGY

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Mistakes leaders make with teaching wellbeing School leaders care about their staff and want to better support their wellbeing but often aren’t sure how and where to start. In my work with school leaders across Australia, six mistakes I commonly see are these; 1. Leaders assume they are responsible for every individual’s wellbeing. You can’t ‘do’ wellbeing for people. People have to participate in the process. The job of leaders is to create the conditions for flourishing to occur by providing people with resources and opportunities to better manage demands. As the saying goes, ‘you can take a horse to water but you can’t make it drink’. 2. Leaders assume they know what people need. People are complicated, with different values, interests and needs. Teachers are also adults where we must acknowledge and respect their past experiences. This means drawing on adult learning principles know as ‘andragogy’. Invite people to be part of the solution. 3. Leaders launch wellbeing initiatives that don’t meet people’s concerns. Be careful of launching ‘tokenistic’ wellbeing initiatives that don’t meet a desired need. People generally want reduced workloads and more time that is not served by a coffee van. 4. Leaders expect student wellbeing programs to address staff wellbeing issues. Schools invest a lot of time, money and resources into their student wellbeing programs to ensure they are age-appropriate, scaffolded and targeted. Staff wellbeing programs need this same level of resourcing and planning. What people need in week 1 is different to what they need in week 10 of a term. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Which list does your school follow? TRIVIAL →

Daniela Falecki

Director, Lecturer, Teacher, Teacher Wellbeing

5. Leaders lack the time required to think strategically about ‘wellbeing at work’. Competing demands on school leaders time means people are stretched to think, plan, and implement meaningful strategic plans. Utilising an expert can streamline this process and save you precious time. 6. Leaders lack knowledge in Organisational Psychology (wellbeing at work) While educators are experts in Educational Psychology, we are not trained in Organisational Psychology. This is the study of human behaviour in the workplace which focuses on individual, group, and organizational dynamics to improve the wellbeing and performance of an organization and its employees. The bottom line is, strengthening wellbeing at work requires complex thinking and planning. Timepoor educators don’t need trivial initiatives that waste their time such as social events or dressup days. While these may be fun, they do not build psychological resources or help meet demands. Instead, school leaders would be better placed reviewing existing opportunities that build the capacity of individuals and teams, so their staff wellbeing strategy moves from trivial to transformative initiatives. This article comes from my report “Why teachers are tired and cranky”. Download your copy by going to www. teacher-wellbeing.com.au

TRANSFORMATIVE →

Morning tea

Energising connections

Fruit bowls

Mentoring & Coaching

Meetings

Collaborative goal setting

Wellbeing apps

Building psychological skills

Yoga or walking clubs

Psychological safety

Social events

Connecting to meaning & purpose

Golf days

Celebrating success and impact

Wellbeing week

Reviewing workload and systems

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Clarifying work roles & boundaries

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NG GFUL PRACTICAL WELLRBEMEINIDERS Workshops, Online Courses & Consulting

MEANIN

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Reflective moments Solution-focussed planning

www.teacher-wellbeing.com.au

TEACHER’S DESK

Quench that thirst and get a learning burst By Gemma Easton, Editor

healthy habits. We all know how important it is to fight plastic waste, and to choose water over sugary beverages.

Feeling thirsty? Quick! Have a drink. By the time you feel thirsty, you are already starting to dehydrate, and your body is prompting you to act. Prevention then, is the best protection, meaning everyone should drink water regularly throughout each day.

“Those unhealthy beverages are everywhere. Ready to pounce with sneaky tactics. Cleverly designed using bright colours and clever words to mesmerise our kids. “And then you’ve got those outdated drinking fountains which have the appeal of a soggy sandwich left in a backpack for a week. Nobody wants a taste.”

Australian Government guidelines recommend school aged children drink between 1200mL and 1900mL of water per day, depending on their age. More water is needed when the weather is hot, and during and after physical activity. A 2019 American study found that 1 in 5 children and adolescents do not drink any plain water during the day, and about half of school-aged children are underhydrated. A second study echoed this, concluding that 54 percent of children surveyed were underhydrated, with higher rates of underhydration in younger children and boys. Most of a child’s body is made up of water, so adequate fluid is essential in ensuring the body can function at its best. Proper hydration has been linked to improved concentration, attention, focus and mood. In a school setting, this can lead to a calmer, happier classroom, and improved learning outcomes. In most areas of Australia, tap water contains fluoride, making drinking water an important part of mouth hygiene. Physically, drinking water helps the body to function correctly. We need water for digestion, to absorb nutrients, to regulate body temperature, to help us move, and eliminate toxins. Even mild dehydration can lead to irritability, fatigue, headaches, and lack of concentration. Making sure students have access to drinking water throughout the school day will optimise their learning potential.

So, Ms Prooper said, it is time to shake things up. “Imagine your school’s drinking fountain as a superhero power source. A wellspring of energy, bestowing supercharged hydration upon students and teachers alike. Witness the transformation of H2O into a refreshing elixir.

Image courtesy of Civiq

Freely available from the tap, water is a much more budget friendly option than fruit juice or soft drinks. These products, as well, are often high in sugar and additives, making them a less healthy choice than water. Some practical steps can be taken at school to encourage children to drink water regularly. Before school and at the end of break times, children could be prompted to have a drink of water before returning to the classroom to resume learning. This reminder can help build healthy habits that students will take with them throughout their educational journey, as they learn to independently choose to have a drink at these times. Asking students to bring in a water bottle to keep on their desk provides a visual reminder to students to have a drink. To make things more interesting, students can add some natural

flavour to their water bottle before bringing it to school, by adding orange or lemon slices, cucumber, mint, or fresh berries. Encouraging the use of refillable water bottles, rather than disposable bottles, will help to reduce the school’s waste and facilitate sustainable practices. In the schoolyard, ensure there are plenty of drinking stations for students to rehydrate on the go, and refill their water bottles. Options are now available for hands-free drinking, including sensor and foot pedal activation. Filtration systems can be added to drinking stations. These systems remove impurities and contaminants, providing a reliable source of high-quality drinking water. Evelyn Prooper from water solutions supplier Civiq said there is a real battle of the beverages! “Teachers work hard to foster

FOOD & BEVERAGE

“It’s time to rethink old-school drinking fountains. Create an environment where health and sustainability are exciting. Breathe life into the old bubbler with vibrant art and cool designs. “Commercial brands make their drinks irresistible with graphics. Schools should do the same with drinking fountains. “First, update your drinking fountain to include water bottle refill stations. Next, add splashes of colour with graphics and art. Draw inspiration from your school’s colours, logo, and values. Consider incorporating Aboriginal Art or students’ own creative expressions. How about messages promoting sustainability, inclusivity, or anti-bullying? “Let’s reclaim health and protect the environment with fresh, fun, and clean fountains. Fight the battle of the beverages. And watch those unhealthy drinks tremble as schools seize victory.” Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

QUENCH YOUR THIRST IN STYLE

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• Water Bottle Reﬁll Outlets • Hygienic Drinking Fountains • Aboriginal or Custom Art Panels

Transform ordinary to extraordinary. Make drinking water irresistible with refreshingly bright and hygienic solutions.

THE SCHOOL FOUNTAIN REVOLUTION civiq.com.au/school-news sales@civiq.com.au 1300 600 300

Hands-On Learning:

School visits to Zoos & Wildlife Parks

Image courtesy of Territory Wildlife Park

By Gemma Easton, Editor

Looking for a learning activity that is hands on, fun, informative and maybe just a little bit scary? A visit to a zoo or wildlife park might be just what your students need! Research conducted by London Zoo showed that a visit to the zoo can enhance student’s knowledge about science, and conservation of wildlife. Involving school children aged between seven and 14, students were asked about their knowledge of animals, habitats, and conservation before and after their visit to the zoo. More than half of the 3000 children surveyed showed a positive change in education or conservation-related knowledge areas, and personal attitude towards endangered species. Students were also asked to draw their favourite animals

wide efforts to minimise harm to wildlife habitats.

Empathising with animals gives children a sensitive mindset for fellow creatures and habitats before and after their zoo visit. Analysing the drawings revealed that more than half of ten-year olds involved in the study demonstrated a measurable improvement in their drawings. Animals were more often depicted in their correct habitat, with correct scientific terms such as ‘canopy’ and ‘rainforest’ more widely used. Further to this, a report published by Kansas State University highlighted the important role zoos and wildlife parks have in educating people about wildlife and habitat conservation, to protect endangered species

and prevent more animals from becoming extinct. The report suggested that the emotional and intellectual connection visitors can make with animals at the zoo or wildlife park, the ability to talk directly to zookeepers or volunteers about the animals, and including interactive educational components alongside animal encounters contribute to an improved understanding about the importance of conservation, and an individual’s role in this. Creating this environmental awareness in students from a young age is vital in ensuring proactive, community-

EXTERNAL LEARNING

Another study, which looked at primary aged students in Germany, found that a zoo excursion had many other benefits over classroom learning, including raising achievement. The study found that out of the classroom, gender inequities were less pronounced, with girls stating that they felt less pressure and tension learning in the zoo context. It also found that an external learning experience was associated with learner agency. As with all excursions and external learning activities, a visits to the zoo or wildlife park must link with classroom activities and objectives of the Australian Curriculum. When planning a visit to the zoo, this link can be easily established. Zoos can support learning in a wide range of areas, including biodiversity, ecosystems and environmental conservation. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

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Understanding that animals are living beings can help children develop sensitivity towards their environment, and help them understand that animals have emotions just like they do. Empathising with animals gives children a sensitive mindset for fellow creatures. Discipline is taught by ensuring students adhere to the rules and regulations of the environment they are visiting. To maintain the safety of both animals and students, visitors must comply with directions such as not feeding the animals, or leaving litter around the area. A healthy sense of fear and respect for nature can also be imparted. Learning safe ways to behave when encountering animals, including potentially dangerous animals like snakes and spiders, aggressive animals or those that are injured, can be taught. Learning activities can span several subject areas; humanities disciplines including geography and social sciences through an understanding of habitat and place; sciences with a connection to environmental studies, and animal biology; maths, through data analysis; art with the painting, drawing or modelling of animals and their habitats, and

English, from activities which involve writing about animal encounters and experiences at zoos and wildlife parks. Younger students who may not have seen animals up close before, enjoy extra benefits from visiting the zoo or wildlife park. Fantasy is brought to life, as they observe lions, giraffes, zebras and koalas right in front of them.

Bringing a wide variety of animals together from across the world makes observing these animals accessible, without the need for extensive travel. Tactile learners benefit from the opportunity to touch and hold animals. Soft skills like sensitivity and discipline can also be fostered when students are up close and personal with nature.

Zoos and wildlife parks have the added benefit of tying in neatly with modules on our unique flora and fauna, and can give students an opportunity to understand the myriad ongoing conservation efforts. Zoos and wildlife parks are often sites of captive breeding programmes, as well as a way to raise funds for conservation and environmental causes.

Images courtesy of Territory Wildlife Park

EXTERNAL LEARNING

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Children’s learning outcomes are improved when they engage all of their senses. Zoos and wildlife parks are the perfect environment for this! Students can see, hear, smell and touch animals, meaning they will remember more than just what they were told about them. The sensory experience of visiting an animal’s habitat will also be remembered, for example, entering a dark space to view nocturnal animals, or a cold environment for polar bears or penguins. These hands-on learning experiences can often be supported by resources supplied by zoos and wildlife parks. Many facilities have online tools to help students plan the class trip to the zoo, or consolidate learning once returned to the classroom. And, of course, like all excursions and school trips, a visit to the zoo or wildlife park will create shared experiences and memories for your students. These can strengthen bonds within your class, and cement friendships. We are fortunate in Australia to be home to a wide range of wildlife parks and zoos to explore. Diverse locations around the country provide an opportunity to observe animals both in their natural habitats, and in simulated environments. One example is The Territory Wildlife Park, located 50kms

south of Darwin and situated on 400 hectares of natural bushland, which includes diverse habitats including wetlands, woodlands and monsoon forest. These natural habitats provide an excellent backdrop to display an equally impressive range of native flora and fauna, making it an essential introduction to the Top End’s wildlife and habitats. The Park offers school groups the opportunity to use the Park’s facilities and the expertise of its guiding and zookeeping staff, to deliver educational programs on a variety of topics and themes. There are a range of outdoor venues and exhibits that can be used as living classrooms, where students can immerse themselves in real habitats and interact with living creatures. There are excursion guides for each grade, Transition though to Year 6 to help you get the most out of your visit. The range of habitats, animal displays and locations on Park mean you can tick multiple outcomes on every visit. Camp Woollybutt is exclusively available for use by schools. This campground with hot showers and flushing toilets is a safe location to camp overnight. There is a range of options including guide led activities and catering to make the camping process as easy as possible.

Plan your next school camp or excursion with us and ĚÊŵ ħ ŵƅŝÊ §Ê ƥĲƅŝƎ°Ě ŢŢŝĲĲģō

Ph: 08 8988 7200 960 Cox Peninsula Rd, Berry Springs NT 0838

Images courtesy of Territory Wildlife Park

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

EXTERNAL LEARNING

Expanding

horizons

with educational tours

Images courtesy of Latitude Group Travel

By Naomii Seah, Industry Reporter

For young people, the world can seem small. With an international educational tour, the world opens up. School tours are a rite of passage for many teens. What’s more, an educational tour overseas can leave a lasting impression on a young person and may even inspire future careers in any number of areas – diplomacy and foreign relations, languages, sports and music. Now more than ever, school tours are a prime way to enrich young people and expand their horizons. Three years is a long time when one is young, and the past three years of the pandemic has meant that many students worlds have shrunk to the four walls of their bedroom or home, and their immediate neighbourhood. Getting out of their comfort zone might be just the ticket for some students who are finding themselves aimless and unsure about the future. There’s nothing like learning just how big the world is for the first time.

With an international educational tour, the world opens up

adrenaline may get them excited about the opportunities the industry can present. Adventure tours can incorporate other subjects of education too, such as biology, ecology, and geography. Learn about the importance of natural water sources and systems as the class

cruises down rapids. Discover the geological formation of cliff s and other natural phenomena while rock-climbing. Explore mountain ranges and the forest ecosystem as one hikes their way through trails. With so much of the world to explore, the opportunities are endless.

Strengthening language fluency and comprehension is a popular goal of educational tours. Immersion is a proven effective way to accelerate language acquisition. With signage, public announcements and, of course, local native speakers, the opportunities to read, write, speak and listen to their learned language are endless on an international educational tour. Sporting and musical opportunities are also exciting and varied overseas. On the international stage, sporting and musical achievements can reach heights that young people could only dream of. Why not take your team or troupe to see an international football pitch, or a historic amphitheatre? The site of a famous game or performance might be just the ticket to inspire your students. You could also enter your students in an

There are many opportunities for learning on an educational tour, on any number of subjects. For students in tourism, a little

Another key benefit of an overseas stint is the opportunity to be immersed in a different culture. From local museums to historical sites to cultural performances and villages, there are many opportunities to get amongst the local culture. One of the best and most accessible ways to expose students to different cultures is through a taste of the local food – what’s on offer where your school is going?

EXTERNAL LEARNING

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

international competition, or look for collaboration opportunities with schools or organisations close to where you are visiting. Among both sports teams and music groups, an overseas tour can also improve teamwork and team bonding, both of which can improve performance. Of course, organising an international trip can be a daunting task. There are permission slips to sign off, budgets to sort, suitable accommodation providers to be sourced, itineraries to organise, money to exchange, health and safety concerns and so much more. Engaging a specialised operator to facilitate an educational tour may prove useful. An operator can help with creating itineraries that are just right for your school group and learning outcomes, as well as visa applications and the logistics of managing a group of young people.

Ms Murphy said any destination, worldwide, is suitable for schools, as long as it’s safe as per DFAT’s listings on the website, Smartraveller. Links to the curriculum should take precedence over tours which are exclusively sightseeing. While there are too many learning opportunities to mention, Ms Murphy shared some ideas. “A STEM tour could include activities like a building a robot (Technology), understanding the role Chemistry plays in marine life management and water quality, learning to fly a drone (Engineering and Physics) or getting the best results from a computer game by understanding the underpinning theories and strategies (Maths).

Operators can help find host schools and families for students, and may have contacts with local guides, who have special knowledge of the culture. This can help make trips run smoothly, especially in a country where there is a language difference.

“Geography fieldwork could include studying a lava tube, or standing on the edge of a live volcano crater learning about what happens when one erupts. History can be brought to life by students taking an active role in an archaeological dig, or spending time in Machu Picchu and Peru. An extraordinary Biology tour was recently undertaken at the Galapagos Islands.

Jenny Murphy from Latitude Group Travel said educationally robust tours include activities and experiences that link with learning outcomes required by the curriculum, and requested by the lead teacher. “Hands-on experiences often place students in real-world environments and show them how their curriculum is applied in practice. It opens their eyes to potential future careers and helps them to understand why they are learning what they are being taught at school. Essentially, experiential learning gives students a perspective like nothing else can.”

“The curriculum should underpin all educational tours when the lead teacher is seeking a subject-specific tour, and/or one or more of the three cross curriculum priorities. Many of the general capabilities are naturally part of the activities. Using the curriculum the students are studying is a fantastic guide for those designing itineraries. All tour designs should start with a deep dive into the brief and the curriculum, then all other requirements will follow. And make sure you are working with the correct curriculum.”

SPACE CAMP GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS ASTRONAUT TRAINING INSPIRING MENTORS CRITICAL & CREATIVE THINKING INNOVATION & ENTERPRISE STEM TOURS SCIENCE ACTIVITIES

Extraordinary Educational Journeys Genuine Learning Outcomes Lifelong Impacts Learning Through Experience

Call +61 3 9646 4200 Image courtesy of Latitude Group Travel

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

www.latitudegrouptravel.com.au EXTERNAL LEARNING

Experiences make learning outcomes unforgettable By Jenny Murphy, Founder & Partner, Latitude Group Travel

experiential learning-based tours. The company’s General Manager, Felicity Irwin, said that schools need to prioritise curriculumlinked experiential learning activities to deepen learning and actively engage students.

Do you know how easy it is to forget things you learn? Within a month, you will likely forget 80 percent of everything you read in this issue of School News. You may also forget this... The Ebbinghaus ‘forgetting curve’ theory, which argues that as we are learning we are also doing a lot of forgetting. Images courtesy of Latitude Group Travel

However, if we use all our senses to absorb information, we are more likely to retrieve that information when we need it. It is with this framework that we can demonstrate the effectiveness of experiential learning methods in cementing new information. Hands on experience stimulates more of our sensory processes, maximising our ability to learn and retain information.

a classroom environment. Education theorist and Professor of Organizational Behaviour, David Kolb, points out that the purpose of experiential learning is to take what the individual has studied in a classroom and enhance that knowledge by giving them opportunities to do and see those principles in action.

Experiential learning can be offered inside or outside

Providing extraordinary learning experiences away

from a classroom should create life-changing learning moments for your students and open their eyes to a world of possibilities. But, remember, it takes significant research, planning, and experimentation to identify experiences that deliver the most concrete learning outcomes for students. Latitude Group Travel specialises in designing custom educational tours and are pioneers in

EXTERNAL LEARNING

“Successful delivery of teaching goals and outcomes can only happen by collaborating with teachers to comprehensively understand the curriculum they wish to deliver to support their classroom learning. A safetyfirst approach, working together to determine desired student outcomes and then identifying relevant experiences will maximise learning opportunities and this has been the case since we initially partnered with Ravenswood School for Girls in 2014 for their first of many customised STEM tours.” This partnership ignited potential, passion and purpose for the students at Sydney’s Ravenswood School for Girls, one of Australia’s leading independent girls’ schools. It offers holistic education with a strong academic focus and

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

a personalised approach to student learning and wellbeing. Wanting to provide deeper, future-focussed STEM learning opportunities, the school reached out to Latitude Group Travel to collaborate on a bespoke experiential tour for students. The innovative, custom designed, curriculum-linked STEM tour that resulted, links to the sciences, technology/ICT, engineering, and mathematics curricula and develops or identifies specific, curriculum-linked, experiential learning activities to engage students in active learning. Danielle Cavill, TAS Coordinator for Ravenswood, said: “I chose to use Latitude Group Travel for our educational STEM tour for Year 8 to 11 students because their communication is clear, easy to read and understand, thorough and exceptionally well researched. Latitude Group Travel has also been wonderfully professional in all communications with parents and students.” Danielle said the STEM tour has allowed school staff to

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

“learn alongside the students and work with them to extend their learning”. Detailing the support staff receive from Latitude Group Travel, Danielle said: “They work with our curriculum and organise everything from preparation with risk assessments, parent communication, bookings, itinerary, contract, insurance, PowerPoint presentations at information evenings, to 24/7 support throughout the trip and a movie and photo poster after the tour.” Developing a unique tour specifically for Ravenswood students has developed their confidence to travel and sparked inquiry to learn. Danielle noted: “They have also evoked many STEM conversations and provided many outstanding learning opportunities. Staff who had previously organised tours have commented that these experiential learning experiences are now stress free and they are reassured that Latitude Group Travel have the know-how to organise and provide safe and outstanding tours for students while also fully supporting staff.”

Image courtesy of Latitude Group Travel

Danielle offers some tips for other schools who would like to develop some experiential learning activities and outcomes. She said: “Choose areas of interest you would like the tour to focus on that you know will connect and excite the students and start the conversation early so parents/ carers can prepare for the tour.

EXTERNAL LEARNING

“Don’t have an educational tour so specific that it excludes students or makes students think they aren’t ‘smart’ enough to participate. “Choose staff who are interested in the subject matter as this helps to extend the students’ learning and enable them to access more from the tour.”

FOSTERING FUTURE CHAMPIONS:

Glen Eira College, Melbourne

School football pitches for next gen Matildas and Socceroos The FIFA Women’s World Cup™ has taken the world by storm, captivating audiences as it unfolds across venues in Australia and New Zealand. It comes as no surprise, then, that school yards are brimming with the next generation of football superstars. In Australia, football (soccer) ranks as the second most played sport for children aged 0-14 years, second only to swimming. So, is your school embracing and nurturing this growing interest in football?

Huntingdale Primary School, Melbourne Grassports Australia was employed by Huntingdale Primary School to rejuvenate their school oval, which was prone to dust in the summer and mud in the winter. The school wanted to optimise the utilisation of the 2650m2 space, by including a soccer/ AFL field, a 4-lane running track, bat tennis courts, four squares, and a long jump run-up. Using APT’s Supergrasse 10 HP multipurpose artificial turf in a variety of colours and with enhanced drainage for the rainy months, the new year-round facility is now enjoyed by over 500 students and local sporting clubs.

While some schools have the resources to accommodate dedicated soccer fields, many face spatial and financial limitations. However, these constraints shouldn’t hinder the ability to offer students something equally valuable and thrilling. Leading sports field design and installation companies such as Grassports Australia and Easy Turf specialise in creating versatile recreational spaces that meet a school’s budget, space, and other requirements. They are experts in designing sports fields that cater to one or more sports. When it comes to synthetic sports surfaces, both Grassports Australia and Easy Turf install top-tier products manufactured by APT Asia Pacific. APT’s state-of-the-art ISO-certified facility, situated in Melbourne, guarantees surfaces of unparalleled Australian craftsmanship and quality.

Supergrasse Court Turf PE was chosen for the surrounding running track and terrace. The field was carefully marked for various sports including soccer, volleyball, rounders, four square, and a sprint track leading to a connecting long jump pit.

Emmanuel College, Melbourne In instances where there is ample space or a dedicated soccer pitch is necessary, schools like Emmanuel College in Altona North, Melbourne can enhance their facilities with an impressive full-sized soccer field. Easy Turf was entrusted with the task of transforming a large, underutilised natural grass area that was unsuitable for year-round, all-weather use. They successfully constructed and installed a 6500m2 synthetic football field using Ligaturf HB250, accompanied by a 23mm recycled Pro Play shock-absorbing underlay pad. This stateof-the-art facility ensures optimal playing conditions and durability for students.

Huntingdale Primary School, Melbourne

Glen Eira College, Melbourne Glen Eira College serves as another impressive example of how a soccer field can offer so much more. Grassports, the subcontractor, was again responsible for the installation of 4,210m2 of artificial turf and provided assistance with the design. For the soccer pitch, Grassports used APT’s Australian made Ligaturf HB250, while SPORTS & RECREATION

Emmanuel College, Melbourne

For more information on APT’s Australian made Ligaturf range of football surfaces or other multisport turfs, please visit aptasiapaciﬁc.com.au or call 1800 652 548. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

US Open, Tokyo Olympics, FIFA Headquarters, Newcastle High School… From the most prestigious sporting events to your popular local school, APT manufactures and installs more artificial turfs, courts, playgrounds and tracks than any other business. Made in Australia from renewable resources, our artificial surfaces are backed by warranties of up to 15 years.

1800 652 548 I info@aptasiapacific.com.au I aptasiapacific.com.au

Welcoming facilities to foster healthy habits By Naomii Seah, Industry Reporter

Everyone needs the toilet, and no experience is more miserable than having to use dilapidated and unwelcoming bathrooms. Washrooms are an often overlooked yet essential part of any student’s school experience. All students usually use the school facilities at least once a day. Consider additional use facilitated by extracurricular sports and daily PE requirements and the importance of useable, clean and functional bathrooms becomes clear. For some schools, bathrooms’ daily use can quickly drive them to untenable and even unsafe conditions. Just last year, the Sydney Morning Herald uncovered that in some schools, students were developing bladder infections and suffering from dehydration. When asked, students cited poor bathroom facilities. Issues included vandalism, cleanliness and broken facilities like soap dispensers and toilet seats. The resulting available bathrooms often had long queues due. Additionally, students felt the bathrooms weren’t secure, with locks not working properly and regular plumbing issues. Of course, this anxiety about bathrooms has real impacts on student learning, too. Dehydrated, distracted and hungry students are less likely to learn well than students without toilet anxiety. Research from the University of Melbourne’s LEaRN’s (Learning Environments applied Research Network) Dr Ben Cleveland found that children’s “concern about their toileting experiences may influence their

Image courtesy of Solaris Paper

that some students nervous about security would employ a friend to safeguard the door while toileting due to faulty or inadequately secure locks. A good measure then, would be to consider the design of locks which clearly mark which cubicles are in use and which are vacant.

All students use the school facilities at least once per day

ability to engage effectively in learning activities and with school more generally.” So, although it might not be an intuitive link, refurbishing washroom facilities in schools may do wonders for student and staff morale, engagement and even achievement. But what should a school consider when looking at potential bathroom refurbishment?

A large part of student anxiety around bathrooms can stem from security and privacy. Without adequate partitioning, students can feel exposed. Schools may want to look at cubicle designs where walls and partitions go all the way to the floor, and high enough toward the ceiling that climbing over is out of the question. Locks are important too. Research from LEaRN found

PROPERTY

Schools may also wish to consider the design of the wash zone. Are basins, taps, hand-dryers, paper towel dispensers, and soap dispensers fit for purpose? Are the facilities accessible for students who may have additional mobility needs? What about the ventilation of the space? A semi-open or open wash-area may also curb bullying behaviours, which can take place in the wash-zone. Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Finally, in the post-pandemic era, many manufacturers are designing dispensers and hand-dryers with infection risk in mind. There are now endless options available to provide a hygienic and comfortable washroom experience.

“We all learnt more effective hygiene habits to keep COVID away and now it is about continuing these good habits to keep staff and students well and at school. Effective hand hygiene is key to keeping germs at bay. Drying hands is the final important step in hand hygiene. Having paper towel is preferable to allow students to dry hands

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Jeff Lewis, National Business Manager, Solaris Paper said it has taken a pandemic, and a lot of signage in washrooms, for most of us to fully understand all the steps in effective hand hygiene. “We now know that good hand hygiene involves washing your hands with soap for twenty seconds and drying them thoroughly with a single use paper towel, as wet hands spread bacteria more easily. Hand drying is just as important as hand washing. quickly, compared to the slower and germ blowing air driers.” Preventing cross-contamination is critical to keep those in your care well to learn, Mr Lewis said. “In the classroom, tissues are a great way to catch and bin the germs and are soft on sensitive noses. Though facial tissues are

biodegradable, they are made to stay strong when wet, so they don’t break down easily like toilet paper. Therefore, bin don’t flush facial tissues after use.” When refurbishing washrooms, Mr Lewis emphasises the need for quality, durable products. “Looks are great but if the

PROPERTY

dispenser is not robust then the school will be constantly replacing them due to damage. It is also important that dispensers have a viewing window so cleaning staff can see how much is left in the unit without having to open each one, which will save time.”

Elevate your school’s outdoor spaces with modern furniture Images courtesy of Astra Street Furniture

By Naomii Seah, Industry Reporter

Outdoor space in schools is precious and often underutilised – what furniture options are available to your school to bring life to your courtyards and green areas? Spending time outdoors has proven benefits for mental and physical wellbeing. There’s something intangible about being out in the fresh air, especially on sunny days, feeling the breeze in your hair and smelling the grass that never fails to lift even the gloomiest

size of your roll, the nature of the outdoor space, and how the space will be used.

Fresh air lifts even the gloomiest of moods

of moods. Outdoor space can be especially important in schools, where students and staff spend most of the school day indoors. The setup of outdoor spaces then, is critical, for students and staff to come together during break times, to

relax their brains, socialise, and rest, ready for the next class. Given the importance of outdoor rest space in schools, the next question is logically – what is the best way to set up that space? Each school will be different, depending on the

PROPERTY

Some schools double outdoor seating areas as outdoor classrooms. Bringing lessons outside can expose children to extra fresh air and sunlight during their school day, and provide a welcome change to the classroom. Outdoor furniture can be picked to accommodate collaborative work during outside learning activities. Large picnic tables are popular for this reason. They can be the usual rectangular model or the pentagonal shape, which works to create natural groups of up to 10 or even 15 students at a time.

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Images courtesy of Astra Street Furniture

These large tables can be used by students to both socialise during lunchtimes and do group work in class time. Teachers can take advantage of such seating to break classrooms into teams of students for a given activity. Smaller tables that seat four might be a more natural choice for a smaller sized school. For teachers and principals wanting a more portable solution to outdoor spaces, stackable or modular bench seating might be an attractive option. These benches are lightweight and portable, often made of a durable aluminium that can withstand knocks and the general wear that comes with movement. There are also durable plastic options that come in fun colours and shapes which may give younger students a kick during outdoor time as well as bringing colour and vibrancy to the space.

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

Plus, with the modular options, arrangements can be endlessly customisable so students can sit in pairs, all the way up to large circular arrangements. In Australia, where the sun can be harsh and the rain torrential, sheltered outdoor spaces are crucial. Outdoor furniture for schools often have options for a small shelter attached to the seating. This creates a shaded spot for eating lunch, or outdoor work. Outdoor shelters can also be purchased separately and placed over existing furniture to add to the comfort of the space. Lindsay Stead from Astra Street Furniture said steel framed and aluminium outdoor furniture offer the strength that schools need, and the durability for long term function and good looks. “The shape or profile of the seating is important to consider,

not only for aesthetics to make your school look good but also for safety in the school grounds. Year-round comfort is achieved through choosing the right material for the location, for example timber is great for undercover areas whereas aluminium is best for more exposed locations out in the weather. Most schools notice how students rally to group together for a catch-up during break times. Four-sided table settings are essential for fostering this group spirit to improve positivity and wellbeing.” Mr Stead said schools should consider whether the location needs the flexibility to move seats, or needs the security and tidiness of fixed outdoor furniture. Seats and table settings are available in free-standing or bolt-down/in-ground options.

PROPERTY

“The most appropriate material to use for outdoor furniture is very subjective as there is a broad range of situations at schools. Timber is a natural material with low carbon content and is close to nature for a more sensory, natural theme in softscape areas. If used on hardscape areas, timber will leach tannins which stain surfaces and will also require maintenance to keep it looking good. “Aluminium is a long-lasting maintenance-free material and is easy to clean making it ideal for schools. Plastic or recycled composite materials are similar to aluminium for low maintenance, but they can be heavy, tend to soften in the sun and do not stay perfectly straight.”

S ’ T A H W

T O H

LEARN, EAT, ENJOY COLLABORATIVELY! The Spencer Picnic Settings from Area Safe Products are a hugely popular choice for schools. The 4-Sided (seats 8) or 6-Sided (seats 12) settings are a great way to facilitate outdoor learning and collaboration between students and teachers. Available in a standard light grey or a choice of 4 bright colours (green, red, yellow, or blue) these are the perfect setting for any education environment! The complete unit is constructed from heavy duty steel with a trip-free frame design. These units are kept in stock for fast and easy delivery – enquire with Area Safe today! C Area Safe Products P 1300 889 821 E sales@areasafe.com.au W www.areasafe.com.au

SALTO NEOXX G3 – TOUGH AND VERSATILE SECURITY The tough SALTO Neoxx is perfect for gates, storage areas, and other outdoor locations that need an electronic access solution, or even iPad and technology trolleys. The Neoxx G3 is versatile and easily extends SALTO’s cutting edge electronic access control solution – one swipe card for everything.

COMMBOX LED BOARD Introducing the CommBox LED Board, available in sizes ranging from 120” to 300”. Designed to create an exceptional visual experience in your school hall or auditorium.

C Salto Systems P 03 8683 9782

C Integrate AV P 1800 742 748

E info.oceania@saltosystems.com W saltosystems.com

E info@integrateav.com.au W integrateav.com.au

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC: ABORIGINAL ART ON YOUR SCHOOL FOUNTAIN Water is Life. Bring vibrant expressions of the world’s longest surviving culture to your school campus. Replace your oldschool fountain with a refreshing oasis. Make drinking water irresistible. And create a healthier, happier school environment. 3 fountains. 3 taps. Chilled. Filtered. Indoor. Outdoor. Are you ready to quench your thirst for innovation? C Civiq P 1300 600 300 E sales@civiq.com.au W civiq.com.au/school-news

WHAT’S HOT

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

STOWMATE BAGTRAC FS2400: ELEVATE YOUR SCHOOL STORAGE Discover the perfect complement to our Stowmate wall mounted units—the Stowmate BagTrac FS2400. This versatile dual sided unit is designed to hold up to 48 bags, all while maintaining a compact footprint, making it ideal for areas with minimal space and where wall space is limited. Stowmate BagTrac FS2400 features a sleek design and durable aluminium construction, ensuring a tidy safe environment for students and staff alike to store their Bags. Its super-strong build requires minimal maintenance, making it a reliable storage solution for busy school environments. With customizable options, you can tailor the unit to fit your school’s unique needs, creating a seamless and efficient storage solution. Don’t miss the chance to transform your school’s storage capabilities. Embrace Stowmate BagTrac FS2400 and experience the difference it can make in your school. C Safehook P 07 3511 1668 W safehook.com.au

LIVI ESSENTIALS Did you know that although our facial tissues are biodegradable, they are made to stay strong when wet, so they don’t break down easily like toilet paper. Therefore, bin don’t flush facial tissues after use. The flu season is here, and it’s important to be prepared with the right tools to fight the discomfort caused by runny noses and sneezes. Stocking up on soft, hypoallergenic facial tissues is an essential step towards ensuring comfort and maintaining good hygiene. Livi oﬀers premium tissues that are soft and absorbent, perfect for sensitive noses. They are a great value option, combining quality and aﬀordability. Sorbent Professional provides silky smooth tissues that tare luxurious and gentle on sensitive skin. Both brands are hypoallergenic and made from sustainable materials. C Solaris Paper W solarispaper.com.au

LIGHTKEY Turbocharge your typing and gain more time using the world’s leading AI-powered writing assistant. Lightkey learns your typing patterns and gradually predicts up to 18 words including punctuation marks, allowing you to compose your content faster and with confidence. The Spectronics version is designed specifically for our Australian users. It incorporates unique features including a new onboarding dialogue that helps tailor the user experience for people with diﬀering requirements, as well as those with special needs. Accessibility features include read-aloud functionality for predictions and spelling corrections, as well as additional features for neurodivergent audiences, dyslexia, dexterity and more.

BENQ LAUNCHES GOOGLE MOBILE SERVICESCERTIFIED SLOT-IN PCS

C Spectronics P 07 3808 6833

Two new slot-in PC models bring an optimised operating system, preloaded with the oﬀicial Google Play Store, giving users access to all applications available on the platform directly from a BenQ Board. The PCs also come with Google’s core native applications, including Google Drive, Chrome, Meet, Docs and YouTube. Schools can use the all-in-one systems to upgrade the computing capacity of their existing BenQ Boards, enhance their device security measures, and access oﬀicial Google Play Store and GMS tools for education collaboration.

E mail@spectronics.com.au W www.spectronics.com.au

C BenQ W benq.com.au

Term 3, 2023 | school-news.com.au

WHAT’S HOT

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