Head of Junior School Administration
E
ach school year presents new challenges for the staff and students and this year was no exception, in fact, the changes to education in 2006 have been extremely significant. Students in general are very adaptable and cope with Mr Mark Hackett change well, however, the Head of Junior School sweeping changes imposed by the Federal Government regarding reporting procedures were quite taxing and demanding on the staff. I am pleased to say that the staff rose to the challenges and produced a report that was both informative and accurately reflected the ability of their students as well as adhering to the guidelines set down by the Federal Government. Catholicity underpins all programs at Trinity College. Religious Education and pastoral care go hand in hand and are integrated into all areas of the curriculum. Central to pastoral care is respect and the staff always look for opportunities to enhance the self esteem of students by encouraging them to respect each other and the cultural diversity of our community. The Peer Mentor program has evolved over the years and has been very beneficial in providing opportunities for the new students to learn from the experience of our boys in Year 7. When the Year 7 students initially interact with their Year 4 peers there is a real sense of pride amongst the older boys as they impart their knowledge and understanding of College traditions. Literacy continues to be a major focus in the Junior School and our students have benefited greatly from the current reading program. The new initiative in spelling known as ‘Smart Words’ has also proven to be very successful in allowing students to progress and master words at rates suitable to their level and capabilities. This program will expand to encompass the students in Years 4 and 5 in 2007. Information Communication Technology is an area that captures the interest of most students. Children embrace
ICT and use it as a valuable tool in many learning experiences. We are endeavouring to harness this interest through the installation of a third interactive whiteboard and focussing a significant portion of the staff professional development in this area next year. The sports program has continued to expand and cater for a greater variety of students. The summer and winter programs are still our main focus, however, the introduction of a triathlon event created a great deal of interest amongst the students from Years 6 and 7. This year, after an extensive series of trials a group of thirty six boys represented the College and secured the SSWA Triathlon trophy as champion school for 2006. This was an excellent result, but more importantly, it was another occasion for our students to display good sportsmanship and represent the school with pride. I believe the essential ingredient for a school to flourish is the development of a sense of belonging and community. A positive school environment promotes pride and enhances self esteem which, in turn, encourages students to do their best and realise their full potential. Parental support is also vital because many of the programs offered in the Junior School are heavily reliant on adult supervision and parents are often asked to assist in a variety of roles and we as a staff are very appreciative of their time and effort. In conclusion I would like to thank the staff for their perseverance in what has been a very challenging year. The students are to be congratulated for the way they have embraced all facets and programs associated with school life. Finally, I must acknowledge the wonderful leadership shown by the young men in Year 7. The example they give to the younger students has assisted greatly in the positive school environment that currently exists in the Junior School.
Mr Mark Hackett Head of Junior School
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