Weekly Newsletter #16 - 29 May 2024
Reflection
The Struggle Continues by Andy Hamilton SJ,
A Reflection for Reconciliation Week, 2024
Last year many of us celebrated National Sorry Day (26 May) and National Reconciliation Week (27 May-3 June) as signposts along a sunlit path to the Referendum on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. This year we may honour them as scorched huts surviving on a landscape devastated by fire after the loss of the Referendum. They still bear their long history, but less as a celebration of progress than as a summons to struggle and to rebuild.
In such a bleak landscape it is worth recalling the occasions celebrated by the two events. National Reconciliation Week recalls the Referendum held on 27 May 1967. It held that Indigenous Australians must be recognised as part of the population and that the Commonwealth government could make laws for them. The irony is that the Commonwealth government has used the Referendum to make punitive laws against them. The Week also recalls the 1992 Mabo High Court decision that recognised the existence of native title, the April 1997 Report Bringing them Home that examined the forced separation of Indigenous Australian children from their families, and the 2008 Apology by the Prime Minister to Indigenous peoples for the removal of their children.
These events offer some encouragement to continue to fight for ‘what needs to be done now more than ever’. They also point to the continuing conversion needed in Australian society. The bad-tempered public conversation during the Referendum revealed the continuing existence of prejudice against Indigenous Australians and the refusal of many Australians to accept the reality and effects of the dispossession of the First Peoples and the consequent need for reconciliation.
The 2028 Closing the Gap agreement between Australian governments and Indigenous representatives acknowledged and deplored the gap in health, wealth, education, employment and in other matters between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. They also set targets for change. A 2024 review showed that only in three areas, two of them local and legal, have there been any improvement in key areas. In other areas that directly impinge on human lives and form the principal concern of many Indigenous Australians, such as the lessening of the number of children removed from their families, adults detained in the justice system, and the number of suicides, the numbers show deterioration. It seems certain, too, that the number of children detained under the justice system will increase after recent legislation in some states.
The defeat of the Referendum and the substantial failure to close the gap between the living conditions of Indigenous and other Australians mean that for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders this Reconciliation Week and Sorry Day will be less days of celebration than of grief. There must also be a time of sober commitment by all Australians to the unfinished task of Reconciliation.
From https://www.australiancatholics.com.au/article/the-struggle-continues
What an incredible role each of our school communities can play in ensuring the human face of God is truly present from The Murray to the Sea and beyond, Where all experience justice, peace and reconciliation. What could this look like as a system of schools? Networks of schools, at a whole school individual level and each and everyday working in partnership and open to God’s call as we seek to bring about life to the full with our staff, students and their families?
From the Executive Director
I am pleased to be back in the office from today and I thank Deputy Director: Catholic Education, Matthew Byrne for his leadership in my absence.
Working with DOBCEL Talent Acquisition Partner, Sarah Hanley, my visit to the UK, Ireland and Dubai was very successful in identifying a number of strong candidates to complement our teacher workforce. More information about these opportunities for schools will be provided in coming weeks.
This week is National Reconciliation Week. The Diocese of Ballarat stretches across land on which children have been educated for tens of thousands of years, and today, our 63 Catholic schools educate 520 (309 primary and 211 secondary) First Nations students.
I echo the sentiments of Chair of the Australian Bishops Commission for Relations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Bishop Charles Gauci, in noting that while the journey to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples is not easy, we remain committed to, and hopeful of healing. You can read Bishop Gauci’s message here.
It has been wonderful to see the Message Sticks recognising 150 years of the formation of the Diocese of Ballarat moving around our community of schools. In Aboriginal culture, Message Sticks were passed between different clans and language groups to establish information and transmit messages, symbolically reminding us all that, from the Murray to the Sea, we are a hope-filled Catholic community of communities.
This week we have welcomed Tony Perkins, Leader: Wellbeing back from long service leave and we thank Robyn Cranage for her leadership acting in this vital role over the past three months.
With best wishes
Tom Sexton
Executive Director, Catholic Education Ballarat
Professional Learning Program
Please click the 'Download Here' button below to open the flyer.
SOPHOS Antivirus
As part of our organisational effort to improve our Cyber Security across the Diocese we are offering our SOPHOS antivirus endpoint protection software to all DOBCEL schools to download and install onto staff endpoint devices.
The licensing for this software is owned by DOBCEL and will be free for all our schools to download and distribute onto staff devices.
The SOPHOS endpoint protection software is usable on both MAC and Windows Operating systems.If you are interested in having your staff devices setup with our AV, the DOBCEL ICT Team will be more than happy to assist. If you are interested in implementing this at your school you can submit your expression of interest to helpdesk@dobcel.catholic.edu.auThey will just ask that you are able to answer the following questions:
- What is the number of staff devices at your school?
- What Operating systems do your staff devices run? Windows, MAC, other, a combination of multiple? Are you able to provide a list operating systems per device.
- Does your school have a current IT Administrator?
- Does your school have a shared drive that all staff can access to download and install the AV, if not can you provide a list of all staff emails for us to distribute the software.
The ICT Team are available for any questions, if your staff devices are already protected by 3rd party software they are also happy to discuss this.
Article submitted by DOBCEL ICT Team.
Catholic Identity and Mission Update
The Call to Reconciliation
As we observe National Reconciliation Week, school communities are encouraged to read the latest comment from the Australian Bishops Conference.
In a blog this week Bishop Charles Gauci emphasizes the ongoing journey of Reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, acknowledging past injustices and the need for healing and progress.
Bishop Gauci stresses the importance of addressing inequalities in life expectancy, housing, employment, and mental health, urging prayerful reflection, mutual respect, and collaboration. He calls on the Church to be a beacon of equality and hope, working to eliminate division and promote unity. The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council echoes the call for unity and collective action, inviting all Catholics to join in the journey of reconciliation for a fairer society.
Article submitted by Joe Ewing.
Interested in Studying Theology to learn more about the Catholic Faith Tradition?
Please see the flyers below for Catholic Theological College’s upcoming information session and Semester 2 units.
Article submitted by Kate Lawry.
You are invited: ACU Theologies of Priesthood Panel
Reimagining Priesthood in the Church of the 21st Century
- When: Tuesday, 4 June, 5:00-7:00pm
- Where: ACU Melbourne campus (in-person event)
Greg Craven Centre, Level 7, St Teresa of Kolkata Building
115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, Victoria - Panellists: Bishop Shane Mackinlay, Dr Rosemary Canavan, Fr Rene Ramirez, Dr Christiaan Jacobs-Vandegeer, Rev Dr David Pascoe
- Facilitator: A/Prof. Maeve Louise Heaney
- Register here
The priesthood is a central element of Roman Catholic faith, in which the one Priesthood of Christ grounds the priesthood of all believers through baptism and the ministerial priesthood of the order of the presbyterate. These are essential elements of the Church’s self-understanding, and yet there has been no major study of the Catholic priesthood since the Second Vatican Council. This absence enables weak, polarising, and ideological understandings of priesthood and Church to flourish.
This evening will present and open a dialogue on the ongoing work of a five-year research program that addresses the core questions, challenges, and theological gaps in Catholic theological understandings of priesthood. The intent is a multidimensional study of priesthood that anticipates an authentic transformation of ecclesial culture with lasting effect on the formation of priests, and the shape of Catholic communities and forms of leadership into the future.
Article submitted by Gina Bernasconi.
Now More Than Ever - National Reconciliation Week
May 27 - June 3 2024
A Reading from Laudato Si’
“It is essential to show special care for Indigenous communities and their cultural traditions. They are not merely one minority among others, but should be the principal dialogue partners, especially when large projects affecting their land are proposed. For them land is not a commodity but rather a gift from God and from their ancestors who rest there, a sacred space with which they need to interact if they are to maintain their identity and values. When they remain on their land, they themselves care for it best.” (LS n. 146)
National Reconciliation Week takes place each year from 27 May – 3 June. It’s a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving Reconciliation in Australia.
The 2024 National Reconciliation Week (NRW) theme, Now More Than Ever, is a powerful call to action. It reminds us that no matter the challenges, the fight for Reconciliation, and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people must continue.
We can’t leave this unfinished business to the 3% of our population that is Indigenous. Achieving Reconciliation will require the efforts of all Australians. So what do we mean by Reconciliation? It’s all about coming to terms with our shared history and moving forward, together.
The Office of Ecology, Justice and Peace has produced a resource to help you to reflect on the post-referendum reality and to take action.
How much do you know about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples?
Most Australians get these ten questions wrong! Whatever your result, we appreciate you taking the time to develop your cultural awareness. Let's get started!
Take the Evolve Communities quiz: Evolve's Diversity Quiz
5 Actions for Allies this National Reconciliation Week:
- Access NRW Resources
Explore educational resources available on Reconciliation Australia’s website to enrich your understanding and build your toolkit for meaningful action. Access NRW resources here. - Amplify Indigenous Voices
Follow, listen to, and amplify the perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creators, activists, and organisations. Learn about some Elders you can follow online here. - Support Indigenous Businesses
Consciously choose to buy from Indigenous-owned businesses, suppliers and services to empower First Nations entrepreneurs and drive economic equality. Search for an Indigenous business here. - Create Reconciliation Policies for your organisation
Organisations can establish or strengthen their commitment to Reconciliation by introducing policies that prioritise inclusion, cultural awareness, and positive collaboration with Indigenous people and communities. Learn how to create an inspiring workplace for First Nations peoples here. - Commit to Continuous Learning
Beyond NRW, make cultural education an ongoing journey. Sign up for workshops or local initiatives to continue growing as an Ally. You can access Evolve Communities free resources for developing your cultural awareness and Ally skills here.
Upcoming significant Ecological Events:
- Monday 27 - Monday 3 June 2024: National Reconciliation Week
- Thursday 30 May 2024: Laudato Si’ Event hosted by ResourceSmart Schools and Earthcare
- ResourceSmart Schools have been working directly with the Earthcare team to develop the upcoming webinar event. You are invited to join them on Thursday 30 May, 4:00pm to 5:00pm, to hear more about the Earthcare and ResourceSmart Schools and the synergies between these two amazing programs. Learn how these programs support and enhance each other, and the leadership and learning opportunities they provide for your students.
- Guest speakers include:
- Alice Carwardine, Catholic Earthcare Coordinator
- Inga Hamilton, RSS Facilitator
- Alison Lappin, Our Lady of the Nativity PS (Aberfeldie)
- Michaela Davies, St Angela of the Cross PS (Warragul)
- To find out more and register for the event, click here.
Article submitted by Sarah Page.
Learning and Teaching Update
St Columba’s leads the way with STEM resourcing initiative
St Columba's Primary School, Ballarat is one of the first schools in Victoria to better support student engagement with the Digital Technologies curriculum by utilising a range of learning tools available for borrowing from the Computer Science Education Research Group (CSER), based at the University of Adelaide.
The CSER National Lending Library program, supported by the Australian Government Department of Education, provides schools with access to the latest equipment for the classroom.
In Term 1, St Columba’s worked with the ‘Kai’s Clan Kits’, a collaborative, all-in-one coding platform that encompasses several technologies including robotics, augmented reality, virtual reality and artificial intelligence.
Melissa Wood, Digital Education Leader and STEM Teacher at St Columba's, said the Kai’s Clan Kit provided a dynamic and interactive platform with hands-on activities, enabling students to witness firsthand the exciting possibilities that STEM fields offer.
‘The kit was a user-friendly interface, and the lessons provided a diverse range of challenges, encouraging students of varying skill levels to participate and succeed, thus building their confidence and competence in these critical areas of STEM.
‘Our favourite lesson idea was the concept of students working towards gaining their L and P plates as they mastered new skills in coding a robot to move in different ways,’ Melissa said.
The lending library program enables schools to integrate a huge range of exciting and motivating Digital Technologies educational equipment into the classroom and includes merge cubes, Virtuali-tee, Virtual Reality headsets, AR space kits and more.
Schools can request to borrow, for free, a selection of Digital Technologies educational equipment accompanied by lesson plans designed for different age groups and mapped to relevant content descriptors in the Australian Curriculum: Digital Technologies learning area.
Read more about the St Columba’s school experience here.
General News
2024 Early Career Teacher Retreat - "There Where You Are"
Early Careers Teachers Retreat – years 1, 2 and 3 and any pre-service teachers.
August 14 and 15 2024
The 2024 Early Career Teacher Retreat in Halls Gap is back in term 3. The retreat is run on a three-year cycle and this year is titled “There where you are.” The two-day retreat will provide content and experience on –
- Nurturing your own spirituality
- Caring for my spirit
- Making connections with other early career teachers in The Diocese of Ballarat.
- Why be ecological?
- Sacred Ground
- Caring for our common home.
There will be the opportunity to explore nature as a component of the retreat, reflecting on scripture and Tradition in the process.
Click here to view a little more on the retreat.
Additional details –
Wednesday August 14 and Thursday August 15 2024
- Timings - August 14 - 9:30 to 4:00pm and August 15 - 9:00 – 1:00pm
- Venue – The Country Plaza, Halls Gap, 141 Grampians Rd, Halls Gap, VIC 3381 - Web link
- Cost – $200 per person
- meals provided include –
- Day 1 – morning tea, lunch and dinner
- Day 2 - morning tea and take-away lunch.
- Trybooking link
Travel and accommodation are to be organised by participants. A limited number of rooms have been reserved for participants to book at the Country Plaza.
2024 reporting advice for primary language specialist programs
2024 reporting advice for primary language specialist programs is now available here. Reporting examples and wording are provided on pages 2 & 3. Two of the most frequently asked questions are:
Does my school need to report on F - 6 Languages?
Yes. All schools registered in Victoria must ensure they:
- monitor and report on students’ performance, in accordance with the minimum standards for school registration; and
- implement and report against the Victorian Curriculum’s achievement standards for Languages
Does my language teacher need to provide a progression point for Languages reporting?
No. Schools are not expected to report against age expected levels in the Victorian Curriculum for Languages. However, schools are required to display student achievement using a five point scale.
Note: Teachers as Co-Learners schools have been provided with separate reporting advice.
English Curriculum 2.0 F-10
All schools will be aware that the new iteration of the Victorian English Curriculum was published in December 2023. VCAA support materials are beginning to be made available to guide school implementation which now gives CEB the opportunity to advise schools on an expected implementation timeline.
2024: Orientation
Over the course of the remainder of 2024 it is important for school leaders to become familiar with the modifications to the English curriculum. Leaders are advised to access the curriculum and VCAA resources.
The online resources currently include:
- Summary and explanation of changes.
- Video explanations (Introduction, F-6, 7-10, Resources)
- Downloads
- Case study examples
Depending on individual school contexts, it may be appropriate to involve all relevant teaching staff in this work.
2025: Familiarisation (Implementation Optional)
During 2025, schools are advised to develop a shared understanding of the revised curriculum and adjust their English documentation accordingly in preparation for implementation the following year. Schools may decide to allocate PLT meetings, staff meetings or pupil free days to this work and are asked to discuss these plans with Education Officers so that support can be given with professional learning opportunities.
Depending on individual school contexts, it may be appropriate to move to full implementation of the curriculum ahead of time (see below).
2026: Full Implementation
In the first semester of 2026 it will be expected that all schools report to the revised English Curriculum. Reporting procedures will continue to require teachers to report against the three English modes.
Early Career Teacher (ECT) Days
First year primary and secondary Early Career Teachers gathered in Ballarat at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership on May 20 for professional development. Teachers engaged in learning more about classroom culture, inclusive education, student wellbeing and positive behaviour management strategies.
What made the day great was:
“The different speakers discussing different areas and being able to discuss what is happening in our classrooms and what has changed since our first PD day.” and “Reinforcement of current strategies as evidence based and learning new ones at the same time. Collaboration with peers and sharing ideas.”
“Thank you so much for today, I found it worthwhile and it was really affirming as well as informative.”
A second group of first year primary ECTs gathered in Robinvale for the first time on May 22nd. The day was marked by the handing on of the message stick. Participants had an opportunity to become familiar with the workings of the Diocese and the myriad of people available for support. There was engagement in how to facilitate prayer, sharing of celebrations and challenges and some collaborative problem solving.
“It was a great day, lovely to meet some new people and be able to work with such knowledgeable facilitators (Kim and Sam). Thank you!”
“Meeting other graduate teachers and knowing that I’m not alone in how I’m feeling (overwhelmed at times etc). A great chance to share any of our challenges and brainstorm some solutions.”
Upcoming Opportunites for ECTs
All second and third Year ECTs are invited to join us online on June 13 from 3:30 - 4:30pm. Register HERE.
In Term 3 all first, second and third year ECTs are invited to attend a two day formation retreat on August 14 and 15th at Country Plaza in Halls Gap. Register HERE.
If you are an Early Career Teacher and have not had an opportunity to attend any of the days this year, we have content and resources available online through CANVAS.
Contact Julia Petrov (jpetrov@dobcel.catholic.edu.au) to ensure access.
Southern Zone Catholic Library Network - PD Opportunity
Term 2, 2024 Network Meeting and Library Professional Development
School library staff and volunteers are invited to take part in professional learning being held at the Warrnambool Library (8 Kepler St) on June 7. The focus of the event is to assist library staff members to:
- Continuously develop the library contribution to whole school learning.
- Maintaining a quality library collection that meets the needs of diverse learners.
- Promoting independent thought and a love of reading.
- Booking link
Please see the flyer below for more information.
ACER PAT Professional Learning
ACER is pleased to offer a series of webinars targeted to schools using, or about to use, the PAT Progressive Achievement suite online. Here's the schedule for terms 2 & 3.
Term 2 2024
- Using PAT data to target, group and identify student learning [29 May]
- Unpacking ACER’s Adolescent Coping Scale for Schools (2nd ed.) [12 June]
Term 3 2024
- Coping, resilience and fortitude: Supporting adolescents in schools [24 July]
- Understanding and making comparisons using PAT norm data [7 August]
- Analysing data using ACER's Bands, Group and Student reports (Linear assessments) [17 September]
- Analysing data using ACER's Data Explorer (Adaptive assessments) [18 September]
PAT CEB Webinar Recording (May 17 2024)
The recording of last week’s CEB PAT Webinar PAT Assessment to Support Mid-Year Reporting has been uploaded and can be found on the DOBCEL Schools’ Hub’s PAT Assessments & Resources site, under the newly-added Recordings banner. On this site you will also find the Reporting Alignment Tool discussed in the webinar, under the new drop down heading Reporting.
Please contact the PAT Team (Breeana Wade, Teresa Hadden and Lisa Templar) with any questions.
CEP Small Schools Forum
CEP will be hosting the Small Schools Forum on Thursday, June 20, in collaboration with the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership. This event promises to be an enriching experience for all involved, offering valuable insights and opportunities for networking.
Taking place across 7 live sites in Bairnsdale, Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Mildura, Moe, and Shepparton, the Small Schools Forum will feature inspiring speakers and presentations from practicing small school principals. Attendees will have ample opportunities to connect with peers and delve into discussions on topics relevant to small schools.
One highlight of the event will be the presentation of the latest research findings on teacher retention in rural schools, providing valuable insights for educators.
All interested individuals, including representatives from small schools across sectors, are welcome to join CEP for this cross-sectorial event. Whether you come as part of a cluster or as an individual, your participation is invaluable. Best of all, this event is completely free!
To learn more about the day download the flyer or to register your interest, please click here.
The Winter Series, CEP’s PD Online, will commence on the 5th of June. Specifically designed by educators for all educators, this season consists of 4 interactive sessions: Sign up at here.
- Women in Leadership: 5 June, 2:00 - 3:00 pm
- Addressing Workload for School Leaders: 12 June, 4:00 - 5:00 pm
- AI in Education: 19 June, 4:00 - 5:00 pm
- Retention of Staff: 26 June, 4:00 - 5:00 pm
Stay informed on the latest industry trends and research, hear inspiring leadership stories, acquire strategies to help balance demanding workloads, learn how to manage AI technology in the education space and gain an understanding of how to retain and engage your team.
Each session is highly interactive, providing participants with the opportunity to ask questions and receive feedback from educational industry experts. Sign up now and take a significant step towards advancing your career and personal well-being.
Digital Technology - Apple Professional Learning
The latest Apple Professional Learning Live schedule is now available. These are free online webinars hosted by Apple to support schools and educators using Apple devices.
There are sessions still to come in June that would be valuable for schools using iPad and/or Mac.
June
- Nurture Digital Well-Being with iPad — Tuesday 4th June — 4pm AEST
- Nurture Digital Well-Being with iPad — Wednesday 5th June — 4pm AEST
- Lead Teaching and Learning Innovation with Apple — Tuesday 11th June — 4pm AEST
- Personalize Professional Learning with Apple — Wednesday 12th June —4pm AEST
- Focus Learning with Classroom — Tuesday 18th June — 4pm AEST
- Deploy and Manage Devices with Apple — Wednesday 19th June 4pm AEST
More information on dates and how to register click here.
National Reconciliation Week 2024 (27 May - 3 June)
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. This year’s theme reminds all Australians that Now More Than Ever, the work of reconciliation continues. Whether through truth-telling, understanding our history, within education, or by challenging institutionalised inequity, we can be instrumental by being champions of reconciliation. There are many ways we can do this in our workplaces, communities, homes and social settings.
A resource document has been created that may prove valuable in celebrating this week. If you have any queries, please contact CEB’s Education Officers: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Helen Christensen on 0467 415 768 or via Helen's email or Jeanette Morrison 0408 360 098 or via Jeanette's email.
Please click here for posters and resources for you to use to show support for National Reconciliation Week.
Richmond Emerging Aboriginal Leadership (REAL) Program - Expression of Interest
REAL Schools is a school-based program that introduces Indigenous students to the work of the Korin Gamadji Institute. Within this program, students will learn about the Richmond Emerging Aboriginal Leadership (REAL) program, including an introduction to the three key pillars of the program: Leadership, Social and Emotional Wellbeing, and Culture.
This interactive program includes cultural games, content from Richmond Football Club Indigenous players and practical social and emotional wellbeing exercises, governed by subject matter experts by our Indigenous psychologist employed by KGI. At the end of the session, students will find out how to enrol in the REAL programs and stay connected with the KGI Team.
About REAL Program
REAL journey is designed in three stages.
- First stage is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Year 7 & 8.
- Second stage is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Year 9 & 10.
- Third stage is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Year 11 & 12.
Where from here?
If you or a support staff member, who are in contact with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students, are interested or wanting to know more about the 2 hour FREE workshop, please email Brady Cooper, Programs Manager - bcooper@richmondfc.com.au to organise a date and time.
Primary News
Structured Literacy Newsletter
The latest Structured Literacy newsletter can be accessed here.
This issue includes:
- Project Lead update
- The Science of Learning Summit 2024
- DIBELS Workshops & Resourcing
- Changes to Online Learning Modules
- Connecting Literacy & Wellbeing
Expressions of Interest for Face-to-Face Sounds-Write Training
One of our Central Zone schools has been offered the opportunity for Face-to-Face training in the ‘Sounds-Write’ systematic synthetic phonics program, provided there is sufficient interest for feasibility purposes. We are currently seeking expressions of interest from schools in our diocese wishing to partner in this training. The four-day course will be held in Ballarat from Monday August 26 to Thursday August 29
Course fees are approximately $1000 per participant, with a small additional percentage of the facilitator's overall fee to be paid by participating schools. The course will cover all theoretical and practical aspects of the ‘Sounds-Write’ approach, with the addition of tailored advice for implementation in Grades 3-6. Further information on course content can be found by following the link to the Sounds-Write webpage.
Please contact Julie Cooper (jcooper@dobcel.catholic.edu.au) or Susan Vowles (svowles@scballarat.catholic.edu.au) to express your interest NOW.
Maths Bites - Unpacking The Victorian Mathematics Curriculum V2.0
Throughout Term 1 some primary learning leaders took part in familiarisation workshops on the revised Victorian Mathematics Curriculum. During Term 3 we will provide another opportunity for Primary Leaders of Mathematics and classroom teachers to engage in introductory workshops on the F - Year 6 Victorian Mathematics Curriculum V2.0 in preparation for full implementation in 2025.
These ONLINE sessions will be facilitated by Teresa Hadden and Sarah McKnight, Primary Education Officers from CEB.
Please note: The content presented will be an online version of the face to face days offered in Term 1.
The online sessions will take place on:
- Tuesday 30 July, 2pm - 3pm
- Tuesday 6 August, 2pm - 3pm
- Tuesday 13 August, 2pm - 3pm
The content will include:
- The structure and introductory documents for the Victorian Mathematics Curriculum V2.0
- The similarities and differences between V1.0 and V2.0
- The connections between the Achievement Standard, Content Descriptions and Elaborations
- New reporting requirements
- Mapping a Scope and Sequence for the year demonstrating the interconnectedness of concepts.
Please use this link to register.
Structured Literacy Project PL Registration for Term Three
- Level 3 Face to Face Network: Monday 15th July 10am - 3pm
- Country Plaza Inn, Halls Gap. Register here.
This event is recommended for school leaders and places are limited to a maximum of six attendees per school (unless otherwise negotiated).
Level 1A Day Two
Cluster 1: St Brigid's Ballan & St Mary's Clarkes Hill | Thu 22nd August 10 - 3 | Sovereign Park Ballarat | Register here |
Cluster 2: St Joseph's Warrnambool & St Patrick's Port Fairy | Wed 21st August 10 - 3 | Deakin Uni Warrnambool | Register here |
Cluster 3: St Patrick's Koroit & St Pius X, Warrn. West | Tue 20th August 10 - 3 | Deakin Uni Warrnambool | Register here |
Cluster 4: All Saints Portland & St Mary's Colac | Tue 20th August 10 - 3 | Deakin Uni Warrnambool | Register here |
Cluster 5: Western Trinity Schools | Thu 22nd August 10 - 3 | Sacred Heart Casterton | Register here |
Level 1B Day Two
These events do not require Trybooking registrations. We will be in touch shortly about arrangements.
DIBELS Digital Resource & Workshop Availability
A suite of online DIBELS workshops has been developed to support DIBELS Professional Learning and administration in ALL DOBCEL Schools.
The suite contains:
Workshop 1 (Part 1): The What, The Why and The How of DIBELS (40 mins)
- The Principal Uses of DIBELS
- Administration Fidelity & Approved Accommodations
- Administration Timelines
- Benchmark Goals & Rapidly Progressing Achievement Scales
- DIBELS & the Five Pillars of Reading
- Scoring Conventions
Workshop 1 (Part 2): The Subtests (Between 10 and 25 mins per subtest, all recorded individually for flexible use)
- Administration Procedures
- Administration Practises with Mock Student Scripts
- Moderated Scoring Opportunities
Workshop 2: The DOBCEL DIBELS Data Tool (35 mins)
- Baselining Data Terms
- Data Entry
- Composite Scores, Percentiles & Normative Descriptors
- Effect Sizes (Cohort and Student)
- DIBELS Dashboard
Workshop 3: We’ve got the Data. Now What? Responding with Instruction and Intervention.
- RTI in a Structured Literacy Methodology
- Data Informed Decision Making
- Priority Sub Skills for intervention
- Instruction and Intervention planning
- Progress Monitoring
- Supported Decision Making: Intervention Prescriptions
Level 1 Structured Literacy schools will access these resources as part of their Online Module schedule in Term Three. All other schools are able to access these recordings at any time to support staff learning.
Access to these workshops can be found by navigating through the following path:
www.dobcel.com - Resources - DIBELS - DOBCEL DIBELS Workshops - Online Modules: Asynchronous Delivery
DIBELS Face to Face Workshop Availability: The following workshops are available for schools who wish to undertake Face to Face learning instead of utilising the above online workshops. These dates, and their corresponding registration links, are as follows:
WORKSHOP 3: We’ve Got the Data. Now What? | ||
Ideal for schools already using DIBELS and wish to delve deeper into using the data to inform instruction and intervention. | ||
Time & Date | Venue & Location | Registration link |
Friday 2nd August | Mildura - The Academy | |
Tuesday 6th August | Warrnambool - (Venue TBC based on numbers) | |
Tuesday 13th August | Ballarat - Catholic Education Office | |
WORKSHOP 1: The What, The Why & The How of DIBELS
| ||
Ideal for schools who have not yet begun their DIBELS journey and require a deep dive into the DIBELS suite, the subtests and DOBCEL’s DIBELS data tool. | ||
Time & Date | Venue & Location | Registration link |
Tuesday 3rd September | Warrnambool - (Venue TBC based on numbers) | |
Wednesday 4th September | Ballarat - Catholic Education Office | |
Friday 6th September | Mildura - The Academy | |
If you have further questions about these resources, please contact Breeana Wade at bwade@dobcel.catholic.edu.au
Michael Ymer Yearly Overview Documents
Michael Ymer’s yearly overviews have been thoughtfully designed to align with the Victorian Mathematics Curriculum version 2.0, which reflects the educational priorities and standards set for Victoria. The content for each term has been divided into distinct content strands. There are direct connections made between the strands to enable for deeper learning experiences.
These documents align with the new Mathematics Reporting Guidelines. Schools who attended the recent Professional Learning with Michael received these planners.
If you didn’t attend and would like to access the planners the cost is $150 for the set and involves a PLT on how to use them effectively.
To order the planners and book a PLT please contact Julie Cooper or Teresa Hadden.
Secondary News
Now well-established as a program for schools, our English Curriculum Project (ECP) is entering an exciting phase where we are building upon questions and reflections from our participating teams of teachers and leaders.
The session last week was built around a reflection from an English leader who had been adjusting the resources to try to meet student needs. As a result, we re-visited some of our existing classroom resources in order to present some lesson activities that were specifically designed to model low-stakes writing and rapid engagement for students. We looked at classroom routines (informed by Teach Like a Champion programs and current Science of Learning research) that support student understanding and confidence as well as routines designed to support student memory and maximise retention of knowledge.
As with all of our ECP sessions, participants were able to take away all of the resources to use in their classrooms straight away.
We welcome this kind of interaction and feedback and are excited to be able to support teachers in their classrooms. Our next session will be exploring the Victorian Curriculum 2.0 for English on Thursday, 20 June at 3.30 p.m.
Click the images below to see elements of last week’s seminar - Building Writing
For further information, please contact Julia Petrov, Learning and Teaching Education Officer (Secondary) (jpetrov@dobcel.catholic.edu.au) or 0432 499 683.
ILSY Exec Boost - ILSY for Executive Leaders
Improving Literacy in the Secondary Years (ILSY) for Executive Leaders has been designed to develop the capabilities of Secondary Principals and Senior Learning Leaders to improve student learning outcomes through a whole school approach to disciplinary literacy. Founded in contemporary research, evidence and best practice, this program will be facilitated by Professor Larissa McLean Davies and Dr Pauline Thompson from the University of Melbourne.
This workshop will be in Ballarat on Thursday, 6 June, from 9.00 am - 3.00 pm (not 16 May as previously advertised). Course and catering costs are covered by ILSY funding. Please see attached flyer below.
Please register your school's participants via this link. Registration closes Monday, 3 June.
For further information, please contact Julia Petrov, Learning and Teaching Education Officer (Secondary) jpetrov@dobcel.catholic.edu.au or 0432 499 683.
VCE VM and VPC 2024 Curriculum and Assessment Audit Notifications
Diocesan secondary schools who have been required to participate in the curriculum and assessment audit for VCE VM and VPC will by now have been contacted by the VCAA, with the requirement to acknowledge the audit notification this past Monday and an opportunity to engage in a webinar today.
Friday June 21st is the final day for audit submissions by schools, with audit outcomes shared back with participating schools by Friday September 13th.
Schools requiring assistance navigating this process are invited to contact Carmel Clarke, Education Officer: Applied & Vocational Learning.
People and Development Update
Recruitment Best Practice Webinar
- Date/Time: Wednesday 5 June, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Location: Online
- Cost: Free of charge
- Registration: Trybooking
This informative session will guide you through the recruitment process, covering off various steps from advertising positions through to appointing someone to a position.
Key topics to be covered include:
- Interviewing skills
- Ensuring a positive candidate experience
- Legal compliance
- Adherence to the VCEA Guideline for Employment of Staff in a Catholic School
This session will ensure you know what is required for a structured, fair, and successful recruitment process.
Who should attend: Anyone responsible for recruitment activities in schools or the CEB office is encouraged to attend.
Future workshop date: This session will also run on August 30 (online). Trybooking link for registrations to be provided soon.
For any enquiries about the program, please feel free to email Sarah Hanley, Talent Acquisition Partner (shanley@dobcel.catholic.edu.au).
Article submitted by Sarah Hanley.
Career Opportunities in the Diocesan Education Community
School Vacancies
- Science Teacher – St Mary MacKillop College, Swan Hill – ongoing position at 0.7 FTE (closes 31 May)
- Casual Relief Teachers – Damascus College, Mt Clear (closes 31 May)
- School Services Administration Officer – Uniform Liaison and Reception – St Patrick’s College, Ballarat – ongoing position at 0.43 FTE (closes 2 June)
- Classroom Teachers – St Joseph’s College, Mildura – ongoing positions at 1.0 FTE (closes 3 June)
- Japanese Teacher – Emmanuel College – ongoing position at 0.8 FTE (closes 4 June)
- Mathematics Teacher – Loreto College, Ballarat – fixed-term position at 1.0 FTE (closes 6 June)
- Year 1/2 Classroom Teacher – St Augustine’s School, Maryborough – fixed-term position at 1.0 FTE (closes 7 June)
- First Nations Student Support Officer – Damascus College, Mt Clear – fixed-term position at 0.6 FTE (closes 7 June)
- Classroom Teacher – St James’ School, Sebastopol – fixed-term position at 1.0 FTE (closes 7 June)
- Exam Supervisor – St Patrick’s College, Ballarat – casual/relief position (closes 10 June)
- Classroom Teacher – St Brigid’s College, Horsham – ongoing position at 1.0 FTE (closes 10 June)
- Learning Support Officer – St Brigid’s College, Horsham – ongoing position at 0.72 FTE (closes 10 June)
- Classroom Teacher – St Aloysius’ Primary School – fixed-term position at 0.8 FTE (closes 11 June)
- Drama Teacher – St Mary’s School, Swan Hill – fixed-term position at 0.4 FTE (closes 12 June)
- Casual Relief Teachers – St Paul’s Primary School, Mildura (closes 12 July)
- Casual Relief Teachers – St Columba’s School, Ballarat North (closes 30 August)
- Casual Relief Teachers – St Aloysius’ School, Redan (closes 30 November)
Article submitted by Sarah Hanley.