At the beginning of each term it is appropriate for boys to set themselves some short and long term academic goals. The rich data provided in their Semester 1 report allows them to identify their SMART goals for Semester 2. As the boys have settled into Term 3 this week it has been so pleasing to observe the number of students attending the Junior Academy Lounge from 3.15pm to complete homework.

Some boys are just trying this out for one afternoon a week to gauge whether it assists them in reaching their academic goals. Other boys have stated that they are committing themselves to attend each weekday afternoon throughout Term 3. Social Learning Theory is well-researched and from such research the evidence clearly demonstrates that significant gains can be achieved when students collaborate in learning, while observing social distancing. It has also been demonstrated that students sitting in close proximity to one another, but not necessarily collaborating, can act to motivate students into studious application. The Junior Academy Lounge each afternoon has a member of the teaching staff available to assist and guide students in the completion of their homework.

Boys attending the Junior Academy Lounge after school last term reported completing homework faster and to a higher standard compared to when they worked from home. Many also stated that once they had remained at school to complete homework they were then able to go home and relax for the remainder of the evening. The Junior Academy Lounge is open Monday to Friday to the boys from 3.15pm until 5.15pm and it is a wonderful space, fully resourced with student library and staff on hand to supervise and support the boys in their study. I strongly encourage all parents to discuss with their son the opportunity this learning space can provide to them as they strive to reach their academic potential.

Photos below of Junior Academy students working collaboratively and individually during after-school learning.

Wayne Inwood

Welcome back to Semester 2. There was an excited buzz in the locker room on Monday morning as the boys arrived back, full of energy and enthusiasm and with stories to share from their holidays. The start of a new term is no longer filled with nervous trepidation but rather eagerness at the opportunity to see their friends and teachers after the winter break.

You would have had the chance to read your son’s report and hopefully discussed the content therein. We will be taking some time in our Mentor Groups next week to reflect on Semester 1 and subsequently, set goals for Semester 2. 

From a wellbeing perspective, the School Report is an important tool for us, as Team Leaders and Mentors, to measure your son’s effort and level of engagement both inside and outside classrooms. The most important thing for us is that your son is giving his best. We want to see him thrive and flourish and make the most of every opportunity available to him here at this wonderful school. Let us all continue to keep the positive conversations going and maintain a clear perspective on the bigger picture as each boy progresses through the years.

Recently on the Knox Facebook page and in this week's Knoxonian, you may have seen a video featuring Dr Phillip Tam, Child and Adolescent Psychologist and Mr David Schofield, Head of School Psychology. If you haven’t watched this video, I strongly suggest that you do as it discusses the challenging area that surrounds internet and technology in the home environment. While our boys in Year 7 are native users of technology, and it is easy to assume they are well conversed with the ins and out of technology. It is important to be reminded that they are young and have limited experiences in regulating their behaviour with using technology, and knowing what is safe or unsafe in the cyber world. It is important that rules at home are consistent so that boundaries are clear. It is most important that there is a clear rule at home that technologies do not stay in a boy's bedroom overnight. Sleep is so important to the development of a Year 7 boy and ideally they should be in bed by 9.30pm each weeknight.

The video highlights some strategies that you can use at home, and reinforces the importance of a balanced lifestyle. If you are yet to watch it, please view it here: Dr Philip Tam - Internet and Device Issues - Common Questions

Finally, we are looking forward to seeing the boys out on the field this winter sport season. I’m sure they will represent our School well and aim to get the most out of this shorter than normal season. Go the black and blue!

Clare Yuan

A huge welcome back to everyone in the Class of 2025. I hope you all had a great holiday break and enjoyed some time relaxing with family and friends. I saw a lot of smiles and heard many laughs between the boys on Monday as they regaled their holiday activities.

I have had a number of enquiries around the start time on Friday this term. I can confirm that the start time for the boys on Friday will remain at 9.00am. To allow time for temperature checking upon arrival, your son should arrive at school no later than 8.45am. School buses will remain on their normal schedule on Friday morning and staff will be on duty from 7.45am to supervise. The Year 7 locker space is now on an automatic lock sequence and will not be accessible until 7.45am each day and close at 5.30pm.

Please come and see me if you have lost any property as it will generally always find its way back to me. I am happy to report that the majority of the lost property from last term has now been reunited with its owner! 

Bec Mitchelson Ph: 91190885

Welcome back to the resumption of most co-curricular activities at school. For information please click here or contact the staff member in charge.

Chuck Ardron

Friday 25 September

Term 3 concludes

On Tuesday 4 August (Week 3) we will see our new JAPAC Theatre fired up as four exciting bands take to the stage to give the new speaker system a real test drive. Please come and support your classmates and enjoy the atmosphere - you will not be disappointed! Don’t be late as we will be kicking off at 12.55pm sharp. Student and staff attendance only.

This year’s finalists are: The Unknown (Year 8), Contagious (Year 10), Scapegoat (Year 11) and Floating Boats (Year 12).

Robert Ewan

Computer Club is back on at a new venue!

Computer Club is back up and running and will take place in R34 (Reid Building) on Wednesday afternoon from 3.30pm-5.30pm. The club is open to any student who needs some computing help with their projects in Years 7-8 Technology, IST, or Senior Computing subjects. Students may also use the equipment in this room for any project that they are currently working on, as long as they have completed relevant safety training. Please email Mr McGowan (Software Design and Development Teacher) if you need any further information.