Last week in class we watched a very short video clip, and then had a discussion about it. The clip had some powerful messages, to which the children were very perceptive. The clip is just over four minutes long. What life lessons do you think are being … [Read more...] about The Present
Life Skill of Learning
This afternoon in Stage 4, I had one of the most interesting and fulfilling conversations with two Year 7 students. Both boys were working on some English assessments which are linked to the book they have been studying, 'Lockie Leonard'. They were both deep in conversation about their … [Read more...] about Life Skill of Learning
Be Like the Wolf…
The lion, tiger and bear maybe more powerful, however the wolf does not perform in the circus. Our vision at CCSC is to make students the best that they can be, both academically and on either the football pitch or the tennis court. Being the best that you can be starts with embracing your … [Read more...] about Be Like the Wolf…
Playing Against IFS Students
There is a huge emphasis at CCSC on students being the best they can be in all aspects of life. With that in mind I have taken on a few personal goals over recent months. It occurred to me during the last summer holidays that while I was asking for the best of my students in everything they do, I … [Read more...] about Playing Against IFS Students
“Difficult” talks with adolescents
In Stage 4 English this term, students have been reading and working on the novel Lockie Leonard – Human Torpedo by Tim Winton. This book is particularly suitable for those in their first two years of high college. Tim Winton deals with issues related to growth and development such as growing up, … [Read more...] about “Difficult” talks with adolescents
Body Language
During my time as both a player and a coach, there have been many things that have come to my attention on the pitch. One of the most important of these is body language. The way a player projects themselves on the pitch is observed by their fellow players, coaches and the crowd. The way a player … [Read more...] about Body Language
Love of the Game
People play sport for many reasons including health, exercise, competitiveness, friendship and just for the pure love of it. Training to become the best you can be in a particular sport takes a totally focused mindset. Nutrition, athleticism, technical production, strategies, footwork, strength, … [Read more...] about Love of the Game
Keep Asking and Listening
I am reading a heart wrenching book at the moment by Sue Klebold, the mother of Dylan Klebold, who, along with Eric Harris, was responsible for the Columbine High School shooting in 1999. I won’t go into details about the tragedy that in itself is incomprehensible, however, what I do want to write … [Read more...] about Keep Asking and Listening
A guide to nutrition for study!
The current HSC class is very conscious of what foods they eat pre and post match. They often tell me that to be at their optimum performance level they need to fuel their systems and also ensure they are hydrated. This is great, however it is vital that they maintain this thought process when exam … [Read more...] about A guide to nutrition for study!
NAPLAN
Last week I supervised the college's National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy, NAPLAN. It makes some teachers shudder and some students break out in a sweat. As a teacher, I believe assessment is necessary. It’s necessary to support the ability of teachers to focus on areas of need … [Read more...] about NAPLAN