From Assistant Principals
14 November By Andrew Robertson, Assistant Principal - Student Wellbeing
Over the last few weeks, I have been working with Student Growth and Engagement, Staff and House Leaders constructing core groups for the commencement of early start. This is quite a challenging task as a team of individuals prepare students to work in an environment that will allow them to flourish in a new classroom setting. Without doubt, the development of these groups can potentially cause worry and anxiety for some as they leave an environment where they feel comfortable, often with close friends, into a new classroom where the security that was once around them appears to be lost.
There are several reasons why Damascus College generates new core groups at the commencement of each academic year. Timetabling is one of the key reasons, especially in navigating electives and language choices. At Damascus, we believe that changing core groups can also be beneficial for social and emotional development which has been proven to enhance learning outcomes in individuals. The capacity to adjust to change and mix with a new group enables students to build confidence, develop resilience, enhance communication and broadens their social network. The development of these skills is paramount in adapting to the world which our students will enter.
While we acknowledge that changing core groups is challenging for some students, we do look for the support of our parents/carers to assist with the implementation of these changes. If there is negativity in your household about these changes, I would encourage you to carefully explore the concerns of your student. It does nothing to simply cut off the conversation with ‘get over it’. Work through the concerns pointing out the benefits of what a new group can offer. Point out individual character strengths that will enable your student to be more confident in the move. Speak with your student’s TA, not expressing a desire for change but rather as an avenue for support.
There are some circumstances where intervention may be necessary, however dealing with manageable change in a supportive environment has the potential to provide social and emotional growth and equip students with lifelong learning skills.
I look forward to meeting my 2024 classes as early start commences. An exciting (and nervous) time where I too will have to demonstrate some of the above-mentioned skills.