Deputy Principal
What Do Our Boys Need (Part 1)
Last week I wrote about 10 behaviours that would be nice for our boys to make habitual. The list was simple but direct. Educators are trained to provide students with the help they need to thrive, both academically and socially. We even have the firsthand knowledge and experience of having been teenagers ourselves. It's important, however, to recognise that our experiences may be, and most likely are, very different from what our students experience today.
In a recent study, teenage boys were asked, "what do you need from schools to feel supported, both academically and socially?" The responses to this question were interesting and I will share them with you in this article and over the next couple of weeks.
Finding #1: Teenagers want explicit proof that the adults in their lives know them as individuals.
Teachers who take the time to learn about their students as individuals send a clear message that they care about them. Students say the best teachers “really care and actually want to help the students rather than just stand up and give a lesson”. Another student said "I know I learn better with teachers I like; teachers I feel I can trust”.
We know our boys want teachers to know about their learning styles, their interests, and what causes them stress. Differentiation and flexibility are key components of classrooms at Nudgee College, so students feel like the teachers in their lives have their best interests at heart.
We also know face to face communication is the most powerful way to build relationships. These relationships at Nudgee College are fostered through classes, through our co-curricular program, and through our social justice program. The variety of settings in which our boys engage with staff provides a diversity of settings to develop these relationships.
Finding #2: Teenagers want easily accessible resources.
Students said knowing where and when to find help were key components in feeling supported. One student said being able to "get connected with who you need and having a lot of resources" was one way school helped him succeed.
Nudgee College has designated and advertised staff and physical spaces for students to go to when they need help. For most of our boys their first stop will be their PC tutor of their House Dean. All boys know they can go to the Br Vic Larkin Student Centre at any time if they are in need of help, and Learning and Teaching is also well equipped to help with concerns around classes.
The boys also know we provide online resources for students who need additional support or want to highlight a concern. Additionally, all staff are always available online to help and guide boys when they have been absent from class.
Source: A. Marberry, ASCD Express, Vol. 14, No. 26
College Musical
‘The Addams Family’ opens tonight and we know that this will be the first of a number of special performances. The final rehearsals have lifted the level of excitement and anticipation amongst everyone involved, as well as all those who have supported them. School musicals are pivotal in school life for a good number of students, because they enable them to develop their creative talents and engender strong connections with others. It is not possible to thank the huge number of individuals for their efforts, but I express appreciation to Ms Alison Kilgour (Artistic Director) and Mr Brett Foster (Musical Director) in particular for their efforts over many long months of preparation. According to my son – who has become a fan these past few months – it is a show well worth seeing!
Cross Country
It was a great day at Limestone Park yesterday for the GPS Cross Country Championships. Well done to all staff, coaches and students who were integral to the success of the day. I would like to congratulate all our runners on a great effort. The Senior team finished in fourth place and our Juniors tied for first place alongside Anglican Church Grammar School.
Mr David Johnston
Deputy Principal
