It is hard to believe we are into Term 2 already. I hope all the boys had a wonderful and safe break – they looked sleepy-eyed on Monday morning as they adjusted to school sleeping patterns again.

Term 2 is always interesting in the academic sphere. And for our 10s and 11s, they must keep their feet firmly planted in the present while lifting to their eyes to next year. Let me explain.

At the beginning of Term 3, we commence the 2026 subject selections and timetable construction process. In this window of students considering subject choices and facing the reality of eligibility to enter, we draw predominantly from Semester 1 data. The criteria sets are layered and logical. Grades. Application. Punctuality. Attendance. Behaviour. What history tells us is that these data sets generally work cohesively. The more a student behaves, arrives on time, and applies himself, the more likely his grades will increase. Now, what does this have to do with Term 2?

Throughout Term 1, students would have begun receiving assignments and teacher feedback. This data would have given them insight into where they stand concerning the Achievement or Performance standard (grades), and other feedback would have touched on the learner's disposition (Application, Punctuality, Behaviour). This data gives insight into what pathways are opening or closing by 2026. Therefore, Term 2 is the chance to address any of the shadows or issues in the data. If attendance waned in Term 1, well, Term 2 is where you show the trend is improving. If your Term 1 grades reflect inconsistency in study habits and effort, you guessed it, Term 2 is the chance to rectify.

When the College considers student promotion and eligibility for Senior subjects, I assure you that we draw on firm data. We don’t draw on the timeless promise of 'I will try hard next year'. Students only have nine weeks left of Term 2 to show what doors they want open come the close of Semester 1. Like I wrote, Term 2 is always interesting in the academic sphere.

Just looking ahead, please note the following key upcoming Senior Campus Events:

Week 2

• Wednesday 7 May – Edmund Rice Day
• Friday 9 May – Year 10 Career Expo

Week 3

• Monday 12 May – PUPIL FREE DAY – Parent/Teacher Interviews

Dr Lee Del Col
Deputy Principal – Head of Senior Campus

CBC Long Lunch Tickets: events.humanitix.com/cbc-long-lunch