Deputy Principal's Post
The Active School Travel program will be introduced into CSS. This initiative is about getting kids more active while at the same time, reducing the amount of traffic around the school perimeter. We will be looking for some parent representatives to sit on our committee and the first date is set for Thursday 3 February for 3:30 pm. Some of our P&C representatives have indicated an interest in being part of this. Our BCC representative, Gina Davis will attend the meeting and be working with us to help make this a success.
Then on Thursday 17 February, we will launch the initiative on assembly with the intention of having our first active school travel day on Wednesday 23 February.
Selection of Peer Mediators for 2022
Currently, the Year 5 students are mentoring the Prep children as Prep undertakes their first official Bridge Builder training. Watching this process is heartwarming. Two classes have had their training this week and the last two will be next week.
Out of this mentoring, Jocelyne Chirnside provides me with an assessment of the Year 5 individual knowledge and skills as they interact across the day in order to make offers to students at the beginning of next year. Yr 6 children do not need to be a senior leader to take on this role.
We need at least 30 duties covered each week therefore, I am looking for 30 students who have not only the skills and knowledge, but the passion to mentor the children at playtime.
The criteria for this role includes:
- Perform at least one duty per week.
- Be prepared to go on the roster with any other peer mediator (not just who they choose)
- The highest rated students will be asked first but they have the right to decline the offer. Then offers will be made to others if the quota is not filled.
- Be reliable around timing for duty and collaborating with their partner.
- Record their duties as this is what their certificates and badge are awarded on.
Children will know what rating they have earned as the training is finished. The role of peer mediator (Bridge Builder) is not particularly easy but rewarding when they embrace it. Those who accept the offer will be expected to begin the role from Week 2 of the school year. Later, they will undertake a one day training session specifically for mediation skills, in school time in Term 1. This training takes place at school and the cost is paid out of the Positive Behaviour for Learning action plan. Participation in this training means they are committing to the role for the 12 months.
They will bring home documentation by next Wednesday. If this form can be returned before the start of the holidays, that would be appreciated. If not, early in Week 1 of 2022 would also work.