Semester 1 2020 has finally come to an end. This challenging semester, which saw us learning from home for an extended period of time, seems like a distant memory now that we are back at school. Continuing the first semester into the first two weeks in Term 3 allowed teachers to complete assessment of students learning, prepare reports and finalize the Semester 2 timetable. One of the highlights of the school year is our end of semester celebrations. The Aspire Learning – Celebration of Success assemblies for Years 7 to 10 went ahead on Thursday 3oth July in the new socially distant manner. The assemblies were to celebrate the achievements of our students across all subjects as well as excellence in uniform and attendance. Due to Covid19 restrictions, we were unable to invite parents to these events. The success of the assemblies was also due to the exemplary manner in which the students conducted themselves, celebrating all students’ achievements in a warm and respectful manner.
During the afternoon of Thursday 30th July, students in Years 7 to 10 were given the opportunity to reflect on their achievements during Semester 1 and set goals for their learning in Semester 2. Students were issued their Semester 2 timetable and instructed students on how to access their reports which appeared on the student/parent portal for the first time. The day was a wonderful success for all involved and we intend to continue the tradition at the end of Semester 2.
Semester 2 commenced from Monday 3rd August with a new timetable for Years 7 to 10 - new classes, new teachers and a fresh start for their learning. If students have any concerns or questions relating to their timetable they can request a review by completing the form available from the front office and returning it to the box in the foyer. One of the timetable team will review the request and consult with the student to resolve the issue as soon as possible. We ask that students be patient and continue to attend their timetabled classes until such time as you are contacted by one of the team.
A new semester brings the advantage of a fresh start. New learning goals, challenges and plans for how to reach your potential. It is also an opportunity to make the commitment to attend every day, on time and be in perfect uniform. It would make the senior executive team very proud, if we can double the number of awards handed out for excellence in attendance and uniform at the celebration assembly at the end of Semester 2.
As a school we are continuously looking for ways to improve our communication with our students, parents and the wider school community. In response to this, the school launched our Sentral Parent Portal early in Term 1. Accessible from your mobile, tablet or computer, the Parent Portal gives parents and carers the opportunity to stay in touch with the school from anywhere anytime. The Sentral Parent Portal will let you:
· Be notified of absence, respond to unexplained absences or advise the school in advance of planned absences
· Stay informed with your targeted news feed
· Receive regular academic notifications of your child’s progress
· Respond to direct teacher/school messages via email, SMS or Portal
· Receive email and portal notifications, including reminders
· Access to the BHGHS newsletter
· Receive your child’s Student Report electronically
· Provide permission and make payments for school activities
For the first time this semester we produced and published the reports on the Sentral Parent/Student Portal. To access the portal you need to have have a unique code and link it to your email address. All parents were posted information on how to log in to the portal, which included the unique code required for registration purposes. If you have changed your email address, having problems accessing the portal or wish to check if the school has your correct details, please contact the school via the school’s email beverlyhg-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au or call on 9150 4280.
In support of our Year 12 students in what has been a very challenging HSC year, the school has initiated a range of programs, workshops and support services available to all of our students. The following is a list of the tutorials/programs offered to Year 12 students over Terms 2 and 3, 2020. These programs are aimed to support learning and in particular the preparation for HSC exams.
Getting Serious about My Studies Part 1. A 50 minute workshop covering time management, growth mindset, mindfulness, goal setting and achieving at a higher level.
Exam Preparation and dealing with Exam Stress Part 2. A 50 minute workshop covering organising study time, exam techniques, dealing with stress and power of positive thinking.
Preparing for Exams – Saturday 25/07/20, 01/08/20, 08/08/20 – Based in the library/Learning Centre, students are able to attend between the hours of 9am-12.00pm. Students can work independently and/or seek support in developing skills in general exam technique, tips for answering short and long response questions, time management in exams and specific subject related content. The Learning centre will be staffed in the same manner as the Homework Centre.
Academic Writing- Tutorial Program – Wednesdays 17/06/20, 24/06/20, 30/06/20 (Term 2), 22/07/20 and 29/07/20 (Term 3). This 5 week tutorial program was delivered by one of our GTIL Cadet students and was aimed at boosting students HSC writing skills through the concept of Academic Writing.
Holiday Workshops and Tutorials. Subject specific workshops aimed at supporting students to prepare for trial/HSC exams and provide access to school resources and teacher expertise in working on Major works/projects for HSC submission. This occurs through consultation with individual teachers and based on availability of teachers. Many of our students were given the opportunity to work with their teachers during the holidays and benefited from the extra time and commitment offered by our teachers.
Online Tutorials/Learning Platforms. The following Digital Learning Platforms are also available for all students in most HSC subjects. Programs include:
ü Edrolo (most HSC subjects)
ü Stile Education (HSC Science Subjects)
ü Atomi (most HSC Subjects)
ü Clickview (all subjects across the curriculum)
ü HSC Support – Wollongong Uni - https://www.uow.edu.au/study/events/hsc-support-series/
ü NESA – Student supports and HSC
ü Year 12 Google Classroom – Links to various resources and wellbeing programs.
Homework Club. The school’s Homework Centre is back and running in the library for 2 afternoons per week, Tuesday and Thursday, 3.00- 4.30pm. Supervision is provided by staff. Students can work independently or utilise the knowledge and skills of the teacher on duty to support their learning.
Chris Williams
Deputy Principal.