Middle Moments

Reviews, tests, and preparations

By Ben Dray Email this article

Middle School duo take to the podium in inter-school competition.

I trust that our Middle School students are rested and ready for Term 2.

---

Attendance
Whilst we experienced absences in Term 1 with close contacts requirements, we're looking forward to greater stability this Term mindful that:

• Irrespective of the reasons for absences, non-attendance affects student outcomes.
• There is no ‘safe’ threshold for absences; every day counts. Declines in achievement are evident with any level of absence, and the impact of absence increases with the number of absences (Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership, 2019)

---

Winter Uniform
A reminder was sent out to families late last term around the changeover from summer to winter uniform and it has been pleasing to witness Middle School students maintaining high standards in uniform presentation. Please note the winter uniform must be worn with the blazer to and from school (regardless of the mode of transport). 

---

Learning Reviews
Our Years 6 to 11 Learning Reviews and phone conversations have provided a great opportunity for our families to share highlights, progress, and workings for the future. I am confident that there has been great discussions around personal progress, with the opportunity for families to work in collaboration with staff to ensure positive outcomes for students. I hope the process has been useful in identifying areas of strengths and future goals for the remainder to the year. 

---

Year 9 Camp
The Year 9 cohort continue to be busy preparing for their upcoming bushwalking trek in the Flinders Rangers. They have had a few practice walks and are starting to understand the need to be prepared for their upcoming adventure in Week 4. This camp is a great opportunity for them to step outside of their comfort zone and show resilience and perseverance, as well as forming close bonds with their peers and teachers.

We wish them all the best on their journey and I hope they return with a fresh outlook on their individual capabilities.

---

NAPLAN Testing
Online NAPLAN Testing took place for Year 7 and 9 students this week. Thank you to the students for their participation and effort during this process.

They were tested on fundamental literacy and numeracy skills needed to succeed in school and beyond. As a College we encourage our students to do their best and that is exactly what they did. Congratulations and we look forward to seeing the results later this year. Thanks also to our Year 7 and 9 Home Group teachers - job well done.

---

A hard fought win in mountain biking competition
Middle School students Jensen Marold and Ethan Bailey (pictured) represented Mercedes College at the annual SAPSASA Mountain Bike Championship (teams event) early this month.

Competing against 80 teams of Year 5 and Year 6 students in a two hour race, Jensen and Ethan alternated laps, taking the lead from the very first circuit.

A downpour of rain and windy conditions couldn't slow them down, and the duo raced to first place on the podium, as well as getting the fastest lap of the day.

Congratulations Jensen and Ethan on a great display of determination, skill and teamwork.

---

Ben Dray
Head of Middle School