Education Learning Support _______________________Page

“Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing one another’s uniqueness” - Ola Joseph It’s been a huge year across the two campuses for the Learning Support team with more than 80 students this year funded through the Catholic Education Office for learning support. As well as those students, at least 100 others fall just outside the funding criteria but are, nonetheless, ‘diverse learners’ and grateful for support. Some need a little, others a lot but, from the youngest to the most senior, all have contributed to the fabric of SJC making it a richer, more accepting place, able to embrace the individual gifts in everyone. In the spirit of Edmund Rice’s tradition of tolerance and respect for all students, the Learning Support team, which includes 16 teacher aides, aims to develop an environment to allow all students to reach their potential. In collaboration with the broader teaching staff, we aim to provide a safe, supportive and engaging academic environment to promote life-long learning. We assist students through classroom intervention programs and aim to provide a caring and supportive environment that allows each student to take his place within the school and beyond. In doing so we become very close to “our boys”. They are all special to us and one in particular, Brennan Houghton, stole our hearts with his courage and quiet determination. Brennan lost his six-year battle with cancer in February after being part of the graduating class of 2013. The team will be forever grateful for the time we shared with Brennan and our thoughts and prayers continue to be with his family. In 2014 we continued the popular horse riding program through RDA Barwon Centre in Wallington. A small group of students enjoyed fortnightly two-hour sessions with the horses supported by our own equestrian expert Raels. As well, our breakfast clubs for year 7s expanded to offer a little extra guidance for students needing literacy support. Many thanks to Kathy and Ashlee for the early starts. More senior students continued to gain valuable work experience through the Food Skil 2 & 5 Fresh Food Shop in Labuan Square, Norlane, as part of their specially tailored education program developed by Kylie.

Sharing some lunch with the birds! the birds!

Our sincere thanks goes to the Josephines for their invaluable financial support and their continued interest in our programs. Funds from the Josephines enabled us to purchase equipment to support the learning for our students with additional needs. As we look ahead to the coming year, we welcome 20 year 7 students into our growing area. In 2015, exciting plans to expand the learning support area will take shape with purpose-built meeting areas, breakout rooms and offices. We said goodbye to our valued team member Carolyn Dodds, who left to pursue a career in psychology and counselling after eight years at St Joseph’s. We wish her well. Special thanks also to Imogen Brough, who added her ‘‘celebrity’’ touch to our area full time during Term 3. And to our boys who graduate with the Class of 2014. We thank you for the many wonderful memories you have given us and wish you the very best as you continue on your journey. Make sure you drop in and see us when you get the chance.

- From the Learning Support Team

“Learning Support at St Joseph’s College have supported me during my six years here. I have learned a lot from the teachers with the support of the ESO and I will miss the people around the school. I have made new friends each year and I feel confident about moving on. Thank you to all the teachers and The Education Office that have supported me from Year 7 to Year 12.”

- Matt, Year 12 (Graduating Class 2014)

“Learning Support helped me get my head straight when working on extremely hard work. They help when you have got a problem or are having a terrible day. They help you fi nd humour in your work when there seems like there is none. And overall they help me deal with all the troubles of school.” - Pat - Year 9

ESO staff fun and games!