Refugee parents bring strengths to school community
Parents play a crucial role in supporting refugee students’ success in Australian schools, according to a study led by Sharon Wagner from Western Sydney University. Conducted in Tasmania, NSW and Victoria, the study highlights challenges faced by refugee parents and calls for tailored approaches to communication and engagement.
Wagner emphasises the need for fresh perspectives and mutual learning between educators and parents. The research advocates for equitable access to support services and a shift away from deficit perspectives towards recognising the strengths refugee parents bring to the school community.
With ongoing evaluation and cultural sensitivity training for educators, the study aims to foster effective partnerships between schools and refugee families for improved student outcomes.
Rebates for school Canberra visits extended
The federal government has announced extended rebates for 2024 under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) program. Designed to enhance students’ understanding of democracy and culture, PACER offers financial aid for Canberra excursions.
This year, schools from remote and disadvantaged areas qualify for increased rebates, building on the success of a 2023 pilot.
Find out more.
Call for teacher participants in language proficiency research project
The University of Melbourne’s Language Testing Research Centre is looking for teachers to take part in a study on language proficiency standards. This research aims to assess the adequacy of current English language test standards for teacher registration, informing future policy decisions. Participants will complete various tasks, including questionnaire responses and online evaluations, and will receive a two-hour professional learning certificate on completion.
Teachers from early childhood, primary, or secondary schools, whether Australian-born or overseas-trained, are encouraged to participate. Interested individuals can sign up via the questionnaire link.
NAPLAN testing poses unique challenges for Muslim students amid Ramadan
Experts are concerned about the added difficulty for Muslim students observing Ramadan, as the NAPLAN testing season approaches next week.
Professor Mohamad Abdalla AM, a leading researcher in Islamic studies, highlights the potential impact of fasting on students' concentration and energy levels during the rigorous exams. Calling for culturally responsive teaching, Professor Abdalla emphasises the need for schools to accommodate fasting students with flexible scheduling and supportive environments.
'Proactive measures can be taken by students, parents, schools, and government entities to mitigate these challenges and ensure that Muslim students are adequately supported in undertaking the tests while observing their religious obligations,' he said.
NAPLAN reminder: NAPLAN testing is scheduled for next week. Check out the public demonstration site for students to familiarise themselves with the online platform and tools. Parents and carers can find useful information about NAPLAN on the dedicated page.
National Science Week tackles species survival
The school theme for National Science Week in 2024 is ‘Species Survival – More than just sustainability’. The theme highlights the importance of science and innovation in ensuring the survival and thriving of different species in an ever-changing world.
Students will have a variety of topics to investigate, including disease-causing organisms, life-saving chemicals, clean water, photosynthesis, genetic screening, physics of building structures, artificial intelligence, and microplastics.
Download the free Species Survival teacher resource book and the companion student journal. There is also a flipbook version of the resource book.
Science Week grants: Schools and preschools can apply for grants up to $500 to support National Science Week activities. Criteria include impact on student learning, engagement in STEM programs, practicality of the activity, and potential community involvement. Apply by 12 April via the Australian Science Teachers Association (ASTA) website.
What’s on
Next AC+ Professional Learning session - Prayer in Schools: consider why prayer is so important in the life of a Catholic school. In this session, we will explore ways teachers can harness the value of novelty, fun, engagement, educational value and providing opportunities for students to connect with their faith meaningfully through prayer.?Guests: Anne Slingo is a teacher who also has a consulting service in Faith, Formation and Growth. Nathan Ahearne is a Lay Marist, teacher and formator of young people and Catholic educators. Laura Kings is the Australian Catholics Assistant Editor for Education and Youth. As well as facilitating the session, she will be sharing some ideas for using modern technological tools to develop prayers for the classroom. ?Date: Tuesday 19 March?Time: 4:30pm - 5:30pm (AEDT)
Find out more.
Internship opportunity for students: The annual media internship program, offered by Jesuit Communications which publishes Australian Catholics, gives Years 10 and 11 students across the country an introduction to a career in media. Applications close Friday 15 March. Find out more.
Nominate a young future shaper: CSIRO is seeking nominations for Year 5-10 students to become Young Future Shapers. Twenty-five selected students will receive personalised support to explore STEM interests and connect with experts and peers. Priority is given to underrepresented groups in STEM. Nominate now.
Local grants in Tasmania: The Inspiring Australia Tasmania Reference Group offers grants for STEM engagement events during Science Week (3-25 August). Grants support public STEM activities (up to $5000) and programs outside Greater Hobart (up to $8000). Review the guidelines before applying.
Celebrate Neurodiversity Week: From 18-24 March. Dive into 24 free online and live events featuring more than 80 speakers sharing their insights and expertise on various neurodiversity topics.