Rebecca Durran
CONNECT Coordinator
CONNECT NEWS
We are halfway through term one and have many success stories to celebrate with our implementation of the Connect program. Staff have worked really hard with their Connect classes to gain a mutual understanding of the program and direction the curriculum is taking students to set up their year for success. Connect staff and students alike have gained valuable insights to their own personal strengths and how they can improve the strengths of others within the classroom and in our wider school community. Students are gaining valuable skills and are building a strong foundation for the year ahead.
Here’s a glimpse of the key topics we’ve covered so far across different year levels:
Introduction to High School – Helping students familiarise themselves with their new environment, navigating our school culture, and understanding NGSC expectations.
Personal Strengths – Students are encouraged to identify their unique strengths and how they can use them to succeed in both academic and extracurricular activities.
Team Building – Emphasising the importance of collaboration, communication, and trust through team-based activities.
Respectful Relationships – Learning the values of empathy, respect, and kindness in building healthy relationships with peers, teachers, and the community.
Building Habits and Routines – Establishing strong routines and habits that promote positive outcomes, both inside and outside of school.
Goal Setting – Encouraging students to set achievable and motivating goals to help them stay focused and find success.
Time Management – Teaching strategies to balance schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and personal time.
Study Skills – Introducing effective study techniques to help students perform well academically, setting them up for success in future years.
At the end of recess, we have replaced the bell with music as a warning to get ready for Connect class. Staff and students have responded really well to this change as we have seen some positive movement to class as a result of this. The bell that is rung after the music indicates Connect is starting, where all students should be ready for learning in their Connect classrooms.
As the year progresses, we are excited to continue guiding our students through the essential aspects of high school life. With Connect, we are laying the groundwork for a positive, balanced, and successful journey at North Geelong Secondary College. Here is a sample of one Year 8 class's jigsaw of students, designed to build teamwork, positive culture and connection at the beginning of the year.
Stay tuned for more updates on our exciting initiatives and activities!
