It has once again been a very full term. Students and staff have been absolutely amazing with regards to co-existing with the building work. Apart from the longer journeys around the construction area, it is very easy to forget that it is happening – such is the strength of focus on deep learning. I have noticed the many times students across the grades, peer through the multiple viewing windows into the construction site and the interest shown in aspects of the new building, specifically the capacity of the new building to provide an electrical energy source as well as recurrent water supply for the internal gardens and sewer systems.

There have been some very encouraging highlights for NBCS this term – none the least being the commendations from BOSTES (the NSW Board of Studies, Teaching and Educational Standards) as part of our re-registration and accreditation process. Having reviewed NBCS Kindergarten to Year 12 curriculum documents, work programs and sample student work prior to the visit in early March, the Board inspectors did not see the need to focus any more on these during the inspection visit – such was their confidence in the school. This was particularly encouraging as it meant that teacher preparation and understanding of syllabus outcomes was very evident and strong. A great affirmation!

As I wander through the newly renovated Secondary Maths rooms (dY & dX) I enjoy seeing the notion of visible maths emerge rapidly into the practice of students and staff. Students are adopting the benefits of being able to use their exercise books, their mobile device, the tables and the walls to demonstrate their individual or collective understanding of mathematical concepts. Suddenly mathematics is becoming alive visibly and I can observe the positive impact this is having on all students in the space as they select the best medium for a particular task. As we monitor these transitions, it has been very interesting to note the very obvious decrease in student management issues. This shift in culture has matched our experiences in the Zone and other similar spaces. The focus has moved on to the learning activities and culture.

Another observation is in connection to something now known as the ‘3 screen day’. Students can readily access different devices for specific tasks. A handheld phone can provide quick access to Wikipedia or checking an essential fact. A laptop or tablet might be used to create content that applies the use of that learning. At relevant times I see groups of students using a larger screen, perhaps using design-based software or collaborative music software. This ‘3 screen’ approach is quickly becoming the norm – and probably reflects the world that adults use in their business practices, and the world for which we must be preparing our students.

I am looking forward to another great term starting in a few weeks, and seeing students continue to embrace and engage in deep learning. There are many events and activities planned as well, including the school musical, Annie, and preparations for the first of the 2014 GO Program trips taking place in the July holidays.

As Term 1 finishes this week and we turn our thoughts to the holidays I encourage all members of our community to reflect on the significance of Easter, and the hope we celebrate. May you have a safe and blessed Easter break.

Mr Stephen Harris
Principal

There are still places available in the Extra-curricular Advanced Photography Course, taught by award-winning professional photographer Tim Pascoe. Students will explore portrait, landscape and sports photography, alongside a range of techniques and contexts. The course will also examine the use of Photoshop for photography.

The course runs on Thursdays after school (3:30-5:00pm) throughout Term 2. There will also be a group excursion to the city by night to explore long exposure techniques capturing the city lights, planned to coincide with the Vivid Sydney festival in May. The course will be capped-off by an exhibition of the students' work at the end of the term.

This is a fantastic opportunity for students with an interest in photography to receive expert tutorship and direction. The minimum number of students for the course to run is 6. For further details please contact Adriaan Mees via the School Office on 9450 1311, or email amees@nbcs.nsw.edu.au.

For a week-by-week overview, download the Semester 1, 2014 flyer and form:
Extra-curricular Workshops Flyer and Application Form

Wednesday 9 April  (tomorrow) is the final day that the NBCS Uniform Shop will be open in Term 1.

The Uniform Shop will re-open on Monday 28 April, 8:30-11:00am.

The usual opening hours during term are Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8:30-10:30am. The Uniform Shop is located in the Terrey Hills Shopping Centre, Shop 4, Cnr Booralie and Yulong Ave, Terrey Hills.

Starting in Term 2, Secondary students will be able to place lunch orders either online via Munch Monitor or in person before Recess 1 and have a priority pick up, with no need to line up.  Collection will be from 1:20-1:30pm outside the café.

At the beginning of next term, parents will have the opportunity to purchase Entertainment Books via the school, with proceeds supporting our GO Programs in Cambodia, Uganda and Rwanda.

Ordering details will be provided in Week 1, with books being distributed to all Primary families on Wednesday 30 April. Books need to be either paid for or returned by Friday 9 May.

Entertainment Books offer tremendous value for cafes, restaurants and entertainment for the family. Thank you for your support for this initiative – the contribution to the GO Program makes a huge difference and is a great annual fixture on the fundraising calendar.

Please note that the school is currently unable to receive faxes in the School Office. Forms can be mailed or sent via email at any time, or dropped in at Reception.

This week’s Michael Grose information sheet:
Parenting Teenage Daredevils

In association with our Empowering Parent Seminars, we have been providing additional weekly parent information sheets to support NBCS parents. Some information will be more relevant to Primary than Secondary and vice versa. This is to support families within our school community covering all age groups.

If you would like an information sheet on a specific topic sent via Wavelength, please contact Mrs Anne Jobson via the School Office (9450 1311).