In a quality learning environment, learning is visible and, as you walk around our classrooms, it is wonderful to see high engagement levels and a real buzz around learning. Learning is all around us - students in the garden learning about nutrition, others at the lake learning water safety skills, music permeating from the hall, crazy robotic noises from the STEM room, and a gentle hum of a reading lesson. Learning is palpable.

Learning does not happen by chance, and there are five essential insights I would like to share with you about the connection between teaching and the progression of learning:

1. Curriculum is More Than Content: Understand the "curriculum triumvirate": it's not just about content but also adaptive teaching and assessment. The dynamic relationship between these elements requires teachers to assess how well students are learning and adapt their teaching methods accordingly.
2. Critical Thinking is Essential: Students need to think hard to learn effectively. If they go through the day without engaging in challenging thinking, they won't form new memories or learn anything substantial.
3. Set Genuine High Expectations: It's not just about claiming high expectations; the quality of learning opportunities matters. Regardless of their needs, all students are provided with tasks that encourage deep thinking to progress.
4. Be the Expert in the Room: Effective teaching involves being enthusiastic about the subject. Students are less likely to engage and learn if teachers aren't passionate and knowledgeable about their education.
5. Don't Assume Understanding: Never assume students understand. Despite the emphasis on developing vocabulary, the "curse of knowledge" makes it easy to overlook whether students genuinely comprehend the material. Regularly check for understanding and know that not everyone may grasp the concepts as effortlessly as you do.

The relationship between teaching and learning is genuinely altruistic; it is carefully planned for, considered and delivered by expert teachers so that our students skip through the gate, enthusiastic about the day ahead.

Milford School Board Presentation - 6 March, 7-8 pm 

You are invited to attend a Board presentation, where we will share the 2024 Annual Plan and an overview of school finance. The evening aims to help you understand how Milford School operates.

At this event, you will find out the following;

• The 2024 Annual Implementation Plan sets targets and actions working towards our strategic goals.
• How schools are funded, and the facts and figures that influence Milford school decision-making.

In short, come find out what we have intentionally planned to drive Milford to the next level of excellence!

To help us plan, please complete the Google Form, which includes an RSVP and an opportunity to suggest items for inclusion.

Milford Board Presentation – Invitation 

Principals Morning Tea

On Friday, 1 March, at 8.30 am, pop along to an informal morning tea with the Principal in the staffroom. This is an excellent opportunity to share your wondering, ideas, feedback or ask those niggly questions. We look forward to seeing you for a coffee and chat!

Community Consultation - Phones Away for the Day 

Thank you to everyone who has participated in the consultation of the new 'Phones Away for the Day' mandate. If you missed the articles, please click here for your chance to provide feedback. 

E waka e ki noa 

Lucy Naylor
Tumuaki