In the last Newsletter I discussed the findings of APPA research on the increasing incidence of anxious behaviour in our students across the nation. Since then Executive have been working with psychologist Michael Hawton in developing a pilot Professional Learning activity. Vice Presidents Rob Walker and Trish Peters have worked extensively with Michael to develop this pilot which aims at giving a good background in anxious behaviours and importantly some practical approaches leaders and teachers can utilise in working with children.

The pilot is based on Michael’s popular “No Scaredy Cats” Parent Program, but modified to ensure it gives leaders & teachers practical methods of dealing with anxious behaviours.

We are now seeking sponsorship for the pilot and will again contact our Minister for support. We have an up-coming meeting with the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women Bronnie Taylor seeking support as well.

Film By

The Film by Festival showcases the visual literacy and film making talents of students and teachers in NSW public schools. The aim of the Film by Festival is to promote the teaching of visual literacy and film making through the creation of high quality, entertaining, informative short films that use the NSW English, Creative Arts and PDHPE Syllabuses as the foundation for collaborative and creative work. The focus of the Film by Festival Series is on student learning and engagement to produce films of a high quality that show technical knowledge and understanding of film making.

Film By Project Officer Glen Carter (glen.carter@det.nsw.edu.au) has been a keen supporter of this project. One of the Films “Vanishing” from Tweed Heads South PS was a highlight of this week’s Education Week :