This year we have put an even bigger emphasis on the appearance of our pastoral care classrooms and we are now seeing much more flair in colour within each of them. It is a delight to walk into these classrooms and see the staff and students take such pride in their space. Positivity and respect in schools are foundational elements that contribute to a healthy and productive learning environment. We really strive to achieve that every day at Investigator College and this year the vibe in the school is quite electric.
Shrove Tuesday, Ash Wednesday, Sports Day, and Rite Journey ceremony are just some of the events held in one short week that add to this positive feel around the college. Our students step up, get involved and genuinely enjoy being at school.
Our staff contribute to that positivity with their own shared respect and involvement in all our school has to offer, as well as their relationship with our students. Positive reinforcement helps students stay motivated. When teachers praise effort, improvement, and persistence, it encourages a growth mindset, where students see challenges as opportunities to learn, rather than obstacles. Our staff also step up and get involved alongside our students and it really shows. They also strive to build trust with our students. Respect between teachers and students fosters trust, making students feel safe to ask questions, express opinions, and take academic risks. It creates a sense of belonging where students feel comfortable sharing ideas without fear of judgment. When I walk through the school, I see this in almost every setting. It really is a wonderful place to work and learn.
In the coming weeks we will have many more events for our students to engage in and I encourage you to speak with your student about what is happening for the remainder of Term 1. Harmony Day on the 21st March is just another example of a way to celebrate the diversity of this beautiful country and students will decorate pastoral care classrooms to show our respect and value of other nations.
As always we appreciate the support of our families and I hope you all enjoy the upcoming long weekend.
Secondary School Sports Day
Turn on the radio, what do you hear? It’s the sound of Banksia taking out another Secondary Sports Day in remarkable fashion! They were followed closely by Bluegum in 2nd, Waratah in 3rd and Wattle in 4th. Congratulations to Banksia House Captains Ella McFarland and Tom Anderson in leading their house to victory! It was a fantastic day for showing the talent of Investigator students in track and field events. Well done to all who participated in the day.
Rite Journey Calling and Departure
The Rite Journey program began with a meaningful and symbolic first ceremony, the Calling and Departure, held at Kent Reserve with students, their parents, and carers. This special event marked the beginning of their year-long journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Surrounded by family support, students reflected on their transition into young adulthood before embarking on their first challenge — a walk up The Bluff. This physical and symbolic journey represented the challenges they will face throughout the program, reinforcing resilience, determination, and the strength found in community. With the stunning coastal backdrop and the encouragement of loved ones, it was a fantastic morning filled with reflection, connection, and a sense of achievement.
SSSA 7-8 Basketball Carnival
Five Investigator teams recently competed in the SSSA 7-8 Basketball carnival at Morphett Vale, with one of the girls’ teams taking out top spot, going undefeated for the day. All teams played with great enthusiasm and sportsmanship led by our outstanding senior student coaches Daisey Wilson, Jack Oxford, Mitchell Skrypek and Rafferty Nairn.
Year 7s making a difference
Recently, our Year 7s cleared the verge of Bacchus Road near the agriculture/tech fence. As part of their Environmental Studies class, students learned to safely clear vegetation, raked up leaf litter, and gathered hard rubbish for collection by City of Victor Harbor. In the process they built new skills, while ensuring safe access to and from the school. Following their excellent clean-up effort, their services are in demand – not least by the chickens, who had the time of their life picking through the leaf litter for bugs.
Cricketing news
Despite a valiant effort, the Investigator team bowed out of the Knock-out T20 Competition against Tatachilla. However, five Investigator students found the desired result in the Calaby Shield, with Ben White, Josh Leister-Mitchell, Ty Gibbett, Harry Nott and Hamish French forming part of the winning Under 15 Great Southern Cricket Association Team. Meanwhile Old Collegian Finn Hayden hit 100* to guide Adelaide Cricket Club to the win over Glenelg.
