Homework Project Trial in Years 5 and 6

Did you know that we have implemented ‘Homework Projects’ in Years 5 and 6 this term? At St Benedict's, we have traditionally not assigned regular homework tasks. However, after careful consideration and in line with our commitment to providing the best possible education for our students, we decided to introduce Homework Projects for Year 5 and 6. We didn’t assign traditional homework such as completing ‘Homework Sheets’ each week, as this has shown not to be beneficial for primary students. Instead we carefully thought out and planned ‘Homework Projects’ to assist students in developing the essential executive functioning skills they need, such as organisation, time management, task initiation, goal setting, and self-regulation. Furthermore, we want to develop a love of learning for our students and continue to connect our families and our school. 

As the homework projects are coming to an end in 1-2 weeks, the Leadership Team thought it was timely to touch base with our parents. Please take five minutes to complete this parent survey (on your phone or computer). We take this feedback very seriously and the data, along with teacher and student feedback, will help inform our next decisions. 

Five Minute Survey for Parents of Year 5 and Year 6 students

Please click on the link: 

PARENTAL FEEDBACK ON YEAR 5 AND 6 HOMEWORK PROJECT   

OR scan the QR Code:

If you have a child at St Benedict’s in Years Prep - Year 4, we also value your feedback. If you wish, please complete the following survey: Prep - Year 4 Homework Survey.

Report Cards

Our teachers are currently working very diligently preparing Report Cards for the end of semester. The reports will be available from Monday in Week 10 (17th June). 

Please note that Townsville Catholic Education schools have made a change to year 2 reports from this year onwards. Previously, year 2 was graded using the A-E scale, the same as years 3-6. Starting this semester, year 2 will now be graded using the EX-AP scale, with Prep and Year 1. This is to align with ‘Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority’ Reporting Guidelines. 

Prep - Year 2 Grading Scale: 

- Applying (AP) - your child has achieved above year level expectations 

- Making Connections (MC)

- Working With (WW) - your child has achieved year level curriculum that is being assessed

- Exploring (EX)

- Becoming Aware (BA) - your child has achieved below year level expectations

Year 3 - 6 Grading Scale:

- A - your child has achieved above year level expectations 

- B

- C - your child has achieved year level curriculum that is being assessed

- D

- E - your child has achieved below year level expectations

Has my child gone backwards? 

Your child may receive a different grade to last year, or they may be achieving below the year level expectations; this does not automatically mean they have regressed in their learning. Each new year students are assessed against a new Achievement Standard from the Australian Curriculum. Therefore, students can progress in their learning, but it may not necessarily be reflected in their ‘academic grade.’ It is best to talk to your child's teacher if you are concerned about your child's progress in their learning. 

Focus on Effort over Grades

Your child's 'Commitment to Learning' mark is by far one of the most important aspects of every child's report card! It is the aspect of their schooling that they have the most direct control over. If your child is focused on trying their best and feels that their efforts are seen and valued, they are going to be much more resilient learners. Resilient learners enjoy learning, continue to challenge themselves and are more comfortable making mistakes, regardless of their grade. 

Know your child

All of us understand our own children’s strengths and weaknesses, the things that make them unique, their special interests and their attitudes. Please remember that the Semester Report Card is one form of feedback about your child’s achievement and progress at school.

How to Read Your Child’s Report Card - Parent Workshop 

Save the date and come along to the following workshop: 

Life Education Visit 

Life Education are visiting Prep - Year 6 classes towards the end of this term. Each year level will be focusing on: 

Prep – Harold’s Friend Ship; 

Year 1 – Ready Steady Go; 

Year 2 – Growing Good Friends; 

Year 3 – The Inside Story; 

Year 4 – Friends and Feelings;

Year 5 – Relate Respect Connect; 

Year 6 – Take a Breath

Yours in Learning, 

Aleesha Rockemer 

Assistant Principal Pedagogy and Learning (APPL)