From the Learning Team 

Semester 2 Examinations 

Years 7-10 students prepared and sat for their Semester 2 exams this term. Students were spoken to about utilising two techniques that have been shown in the research to improve retention of information: Active Recall and Spaced Repetition. 

Active Recall requires students to not just read their study notes, but provide prompt questions to recall as much as they can of their study notes. Spaced repetition is a technique of studying their notes in short bursts immediately after they learn it, and then revise it regularly with a larger and larger gap between successive sessions. 

Finally, students were encouraged to use the 25:5 rule. This means the boys should never study for more than 25 minutes without a 5-minute brain break – drink some water do some exercise and then they can resume. 

The College hopes the students were able to utilize these techniques as they attempted to prepare for their exams. 

HSC Minimum Standards 

The majority of year 11 students have met all of the requirements of the HSC Minimum Standards tests. This includes a test for reading, writing and numeracy. This means that our students who go on to complete their HSC courses, will be eligible for the HSC Credential – congratulations gentleman. 

A massive thank you must go to Ms Simone Baluch, Ms Alanah Quinlivan, and the Diverse Learning team for ensuring that students were well equipped to sit these tests and complete them in a timely manner. Their tireless efforts have led to this excellent result for the College. 

SDC Learning Framework 

The Learning Framework Committee has almost finalised our renewed focus on learning for 2024 and onwards. Early in 2024 this document will be released for the Community. It has a focus on the recent EREA Learning Statement and focuses on the 4 qualities of the graduate student the College produces: Knowledge, Relationship, Faith and Integrity. We look forward to sharing this document with you in 2024. 

Best of luck to you and your family as we head towards the conclusion of the academic year. We hope you and your families have a safe and happy Christmas period.