Primary Newsletter
IN THIS ISSUE: •
News from the Classroom
•
Birthdays
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Student Achievements
Dear Parents and Caregivers, It was a busy and productive week in the Primary School, despite the holidays being just around the corner. The main focus of the week for the Year 3 to 6 students was to go through their exams and to use these as part of the learning experience. The teachers were really impressed, not only with how well them students did in the exams but with their mature and interested approach to receiving feedback. This ‘full circle’ approach to assessment is critical if it is to have any long-term effectiveness. During the term, the students learn new skills and acquire knowledge based on what they learn in class. This is then assessed through a variety of methods, one of which is examinations. The feedback loop is then the final part of the process, as the students see where they have done well and where they can still improve. And hopefully, as the new term starts, they are able to put into practice what they have learned from the assessment process and continue in an upward progression. One of the valuable aspects of assessment is that gained by the teachers. They are able to gain a broad overview of areas which are being effectively taught and understood by the students, and they can also see areas which still need reinforcing. This assists us to ensure that we continue to offer effective, relevant and impactful teaching, all for the benefit of our students. This constant evaluation of where we are as a school, and how we are able to remain a top-performing school, not only in the city and state but even when measured against international standards. One debate which often occurs in the educational sphere is that of early specialisation versus a broader, more holistic approach to what is taught at school. Parallels are often drawn between academics and prowess in sport. As such, it was interesting to read a recent research paper which makes the point that “Nobel laureates had multidisciplinary study/working experience and slower early progress than did national-level award winners.” This broad-based multidisciplinary approach is one which we endorse at Reddam. A wide range of subjects provides rich texture to the learning experience, allowing students to find those areas which interest them the most, while also gaining a holistic view of the world.
The Reddam House Primary School Newsletter
Volume 22 Issue 8 Friday 24 June 2022
Page 1