It has been a privilege this term to work alongside Brenda in the Class 10 Epic Poetry Main Lesson. Both Nathalie Ross and I have shared this learning space with Brenda. I am an Economist by trade — writing with numbers in my sentences and referencing graphs is where I am most comfortable. Adjectives, verbose and intense language, and the use of art to communicate is not something in which I am well practised. I was in this class to provide extra support to the students, to support students with their writing, help set goals and facilitate discussion. I could help with lifting expectations of the students and keep them focused.
This week, I shared with the Class 10s what I gained and what they taught me – on a personal level, and a pedagogical level. As well as written pieces, students were asked to prepare a visual representation of a scene from of The Odyssey. I was impressed by their ability to plan their visual project — impressed by the variety of ways they approached the task and the flexibility they showed with solving problems, and with the connections they made between the artistic tools they chose and the concepts studied. I was impressed with their collaboration and desire to complete the task. And finally, I left with a new and fresh understanding of different ways for students to share their understanding. This is where Orana excels.
Learning at Orana is not a one way street; teachers too are learners for life. Learning alongside students is one of the best parts of coming to work here each day.
Susan Pascoe — Acting Deputy Principal High School and Senior College
