Category: Parents

STUDY SKILLS TIP FOR MAY: BARRIERS TO DEVELOPING A GOOD MEMORY

May 6, 2019

Many students say ‘I don’t have a good memory’ but there are many barriers to developing a good memory that are able to be overcome. Here are the top 3:

  1. NEGATIVE MINDSET / ATTITUDE

Henry Ford once famously said, “whether you believe you can, or you can’t, you are right”. This refers to your mindset or mental attitude, and the concept that your mind is powerful enough to enable your thoughts to create your reality. If you have a negative attitude to your memory, it will likely reduce your chance of developing and maintaining a good memory. There are some simple steps you can take to start making changes to negative thoughts. Be aware that negative thoughts are just a habit, and habits can be changed with a little effort. Awareness is the key to changing a habit, as you need to consciously be aware of the current habit before you can change it – so start catching yourself in the act of making negative statements. Affirm your intention to improve the way you think. Then correct the negative statement you just made, and make it into a more positive one.

 

  1. ABSENTMINDEDNESS / NOT PAYING ATTENTION

The first stage of the memory process is encoding the information that is to be remembered – thus the brain uses the senses and emotions to process the information and form a memory. Here are some ways in which you can be less absentminded:

– Setting an intention to become more attentive.

– Sitting up front where there are less things to distract you, especially if you have difficulty paying attention in class.

-Taking notes in class to ensure you listen.

 

  1. STRESS / ANXIETY

Stress will increase the likelihood of being distracted, resulting in low concentration meaning that information may not be encoded accurately – and thus cannot be later retrieved. Stress may also result in mental blanks. For example, if you’re stressed before an exam, you may not be able to think clearly and access and retrieve the information you need. The best thing to do is to take ten deep breaths and calm down to allow your mind to focus.

Learn more at the Brain and Memory unit of www.studyskillshandbook.com.au.

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Sarah Cooke

Careers Advisor

 

What a Champion

May 3, 2019

Representing WA at the National Baseball Championships, Tuscan Gill  Year 9, played an outstanding competition, with her team falling just short of a bronze medal. Congratulations!

It’s Electrifying

May 3, 2019

Our Year 9 students thoroughly enjoyed this hair-raising Science lesson on static electricity. Hopefully it has sparked their interest in the area of Physics.

Ben Nicholson

Science Teacher

WHAT A RESPONSE!

May 1, 2019

We have had an overwhelming response to our Community Campout – thank you to everyone who has booked a place!

The Campout is now fully booked, but a waitlist is available through the Trybooking link.

Please sign up to the waitlist so if cancellations occur and space becomes available, we can notify you as soon as possible. https://www.trybooking.com/BBPVG

Gathering to Remember ANZAC Day

April 30, 2019

Today, we recall those who, in the tragedy of war gave their lives for Australia and those who died for the freedom of all people.
We remember those who found rest on the ridges of Gallipoli; those who rest in the cemeteries of the great wars; those who rest in the haze of desert and jungle; those who rest in the depths of the seas.

We remember those who have fallen in the defence of peace, on land, in the air and on the sea.

We remember each man, woman and child who has died so that the light of freedom, justice and humanity may continue to shine.

Today, as we remember, we ask God that our praise may be worthy of their sacrifice.

2019 Careers Expo

April 30, 2019

Come along to the 2019 Careers Expo to meet representatives from a large selection of organisations and learn about the exciting possibilities available. Find a full list of exhibitors and information on our School website: http://bit.ly/2vr0pSb

Calling All Campers!

April 30, 2019

Tow your caravan or pitch a tent at the School’s Nanga property this September for our exciting Community Campout!

As part of the School’s 35th year celebrations, there will be fun for the whole family at the free event with arts and crafts, a treasure hunt, songs by the campfire, and if weather permits, stargazing! Spots are limited, so check out further details and book your place at: https://www.trybooking.com/BBPVG
Be sure to read the terms and conditions.

AN EXCITING SCHEDULE FOR TERM 2

April 30, 2019

I recall when Term 1 was known as the ‘quiet term’ among school circles, yet I’m not sure that title still stands as our first term was a flurry of activity filled with various learning and wellbeing pursuits both at home and abroad. We had students achieve in a variety of areas, from The Arts and Debating to the sporting grounds and in the pool. Our South Africa Global Tour contingent left with more than 400kg of donations of shoes and clothes on their trip over the holidays, the materials lovingly received by those in need. A big thank you to the community who helped us to pass on the goods.

The Arts Tour also took place over the holidays, with across-campus contingent of staff and students treated to a smorgasbord of creativity. After taking in the sights of Melbourne, the group saw stage shows of West Side Story and Muriel’s Wedding, participated in a samba percussion workshop and visited the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. They then flew to Sydney for NIDA workshops, popped in to Brett Whiteley’s studio and enjoyed Sydney Theatre Company and Ensemble Theatre productions.

Today, we start Term 2 with reflections for Anzac Day and the sacrifices of those who have gone before us. Looking at the legacy these men and women have left provide a constant inspiration and to be thankful for all we have as well as looking forward to the future they helped to forge for us.

While there were many days spent in the pool for swimming carnivals in Term 1, the focus now turns to the track, with both Interhouse and Interschool Cross-Country Carnivals seeing our runners putting their best foot forward.

An information evening on ‘Navigating the Teenage Years’ has proved popular, selling out not long after tickets were released, as we all – students, parents and staff – work our way through some of life’s challenges, questions, changes and decisions.

Students will also be able to uncover the best pathway for them at the 2019 Career’s Expo, with representatives from universities, TAFEs, industry and other post school options gathering in the one place to chat about choices with students and parents. Keep an eye out for more information.

Our musicians will showcase their talent in a series of music concerts and the Arts & Academic Festival will bring out the creative side for all.

Many of our students go on camps this term, forging friendships, learning life skills and making memories in the process. Others will depart on a range of tours including the International Music Tour, Indonesian, Bethany Home, Canberra and Kimberley Tours.

This week, the School will also be announcing a special ‘Community Camp Out’ event at our Nanga property in Dwellingup for Term 3 to celebrate our 35 years. Families can enjoy an afternoon of activities and a night under the stars. There are limited tickets for what is sure to be a wonderful free community event so make sure you reserve a spot soon.

We continue our 35-year reflections with regular profiles of old staff, alumni and material from the archives – what a treat it has been to see where we began, where we are and where we hope to be.

So, here’s to another great term at St Stephen’s School. I look forward to sharing it with all of you.

Take care,

Mrs Donella Beare

Principal