Newsletter

Professional Learning & Development is sustained with powerful effects when a series of key features are adhered to. Firstly, a focus on evidence-based practice gives purpose to the goals. Secondly, guidance is provided to balance adaptations through contextualising policies and approaches. Thirdly, ample feedback is provided through frequent and specific learning opportunities, as well as both qualitative and quantitative data to support change. Finally, evidence is collected to support the rationale for change, whilst ongoing support is provided, as “professional learning must be a process, not an event” (Guskey, 2022).

Everyone’s abilities may be strengthened by culture. Term 2 began with two days of intensive professional learning to enact the strategic intents of the College. An interactive dialogue on high-performing culture with Karl Treacher (CEO, The Culture Institute of Australia) sparked some outstanding provocation and propositions regarding high-performing organisational culture. Centring on cultural fundamentals (language & realities), cultural health (professional culture), and cultural styles (intentional settings), the workshop involved delving deeper into the interplay of culture, climate, people, and engagement. From the perspective of St Aloysius, the core underpinning Mercy values of respect, hospitality, service, compassion, justice, and courage lay the significant foundations of the culture of the school, both explicitly and implicitly. The particularly exciting next step, when we revisit the ideas of school culture, is the intersection of cultural styles and values.

The only way to do great work is to love what you do. The second day of professional learning focus had an explicit wellbeing agenda; that of Visible Wellbeing with Dr Lea Waters. Visible Wellbeing is a whole-school, evidence-based program based on the science of Positive Psychology. It provided the staff with a toolkit of strategies to support wellbeing and buffer against mental illness for students (and staff alike). Staff embraced the SEARCH framework (Strengths, Emotional Management, Attention & Awareness, Relationships, Coping, and Habits & Goals) to absorb new learning, engage in professional dialogue, and create meaningful learning goals to enhance student learning and wellbeing outcomes. The framework will be frequently revisited throughout Term 2 and the professional learning plan for 2025.

Chris Needle
Assistant Principal, Professional Culture