We know that feedback is one of the most effective strategies when it comes to teaching and learning. Not only is it important for teachers to give feedback to the girls about how they are progressing and what they need to do to improve, but it is essential that teachers also collect feedback from their students to assess their progress. This “cycle of feedback” is central to the way we operate in classrooms at Lowther Hall, and helps to ensure that each girl is being challenged at just the right level and that every girl is learning.

It is always exciting to return to school after a term break and in Term 4 this is especially the case with the energy that Spring brings. This week started with an inspiring day in which members of the teaching staff shared their reflections on learning they have each been doing over the year – action research regarding best practice classroom teaching, informed through peer observation, data collection and extensive reflection and reading. We are fortunate at Lowther Hall to have a committed team of professional teachers who lead the way in learning for our girls.

The end of term provides an opportunity to look back at all that has been accomplished during the last 9 weeks and to celebrate the many milestones that have been reached and goals that have been achieved.

What a wonderful evening we were treated to at the Melbourne Recital Centre last night! From the very first drum roll in the Percussion Ensemble, through to the final choral harmony, the night was filled with the very highest standard of musical performance, reflecting many hours of rehearsal and commitment by students and staff alike.

It is with a sense of excitement and great anticipation that we look forward to the Annual Music Concert next Wednesday evening. The girls and staff have been putting in many hours of practice to provide a very entertaining program of items for the School Community to enjoy.

This week, the Deputy Principals and I had the privilege of attending a seminar run by Carol Dweck, the author of Mindset. Having read her work and implemented some of her recommendations across the School, it was wonderful to hear her speak.

Last week finished with the wonderful celebration of 100 days of school for our Prep girls. It was gratifying to see each girl cross the stage to receive her certificate and to reflect on how much has been learnt in such a short time at School. There is nothing quite like hearing our youngest voices sing the School Song to send you home with a smile!