Teaching and Learning Update

Teaching and Learning Update

As we move into the middle of Term 1, there are several important learning events and opportunities coming up for students, families and staff.

NAPLAN – Years 7 and 9

NAPLAN testing for all Year 7 and Year 9 students will take place in Week 7 & 8.
Students will complete the assessments across four days:

• Year 9: Periods 1–2 on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Monday
  
  

• Year 7: Periods 3–4 Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Monday
  
  

These assessments provide valuable information about student progress in literacy and numeracy and help us to tailor teaching to support growth. Families have received detailed communication outlining the schedule, requirements, and the processes for exemption or withdrawal.

If students have any questions or require support, they are encouraged to speak with their classroom teacher or contact me directly.

Parent–Student–Teacher Conferences – Weeks 8 & 9

Our Parent–Student–Teacher Conferences will be held across Weeks 8 and 9. These meetings are a valuable opportunity to:

• discuss student learning progress
  
  

• celebrate strengths and growth
  
  

• identify next steps for improvement
  
  

• strengthen the partnership between home and school
  
  

Booking information:
Bookings will open shortly via our usual online booking platform. Families will receive a notification when the booking window opens, along with clear instructions on how to select interview times with teachers. We encourage students to attend with their parents/carers, as their voice and reflection are an important part of the learning conversation.

Student-Free Day – Friday 27 March

Please note that Friday 27 March will be a student-free day.

On this day, our teaching staff will be engaged in professional learning focused on deepening our understanding of the MACS Vision for Instruction and strengthening our practice in explicit teaching. This work is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring every classroom is informed by the most up-to-date, evidence-based research on how students learn best.

We are pleased to welcome back Dr Nathaniel Swain, who will work with staff to further develop our shared instructional approach. His expertise will support teachers to refine classroom practice so that all students benefit from clear explanations, guided practice, and purposeful feedback.

These initiatives reflect our continued focus on Engagement for Excellence,ensuring that every student is supported to achieve growth and success through high-quality teaching and strong partnerships with families.

If you have any questions regarding NAPLAN, the conferences, or our teaching and learning programs, please do not hesitate to get in touch.