Upping the ante in academics

Last week we received the School’s 2017 NAPLAN results. (Parents of Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 boys will receive their son’s individual results soon and can click here for an information sheet regarding results). We particularly focus on the progress that individual cohorts make across two years, from Year 3 to Year 5, Year 5 to Year 7 and Year 7 to Year 9.

Overall, we are pleased with our 2017 NAPLAN results; they are another strong indicator that we are on the right track with our focus on academics. In particular:

• Our Year 5 students have made outstanding progress since they were in Year 3 (in 2015).
• Our recent focus on improving the boys’ writing skills has been validated, with excellent gains being made by both the Year 7 students (from when they were in Year 5) and the Year 9 students (from when they were in Year 7).
• The performance of the Year 9 cohort across all five NAPLAN domains was strong.

These gains validate the work we are doing. At the same time, we need to ensure all partners in our 3CP (the boys, the teachers and the parents) continue to play their part in maximising the academic potential of all boys at BGS.

There are a number of exciting stories in this week’s eNews from our Outdoor Education program. The boys have been challenged in various ways and come out the other side stronger and more resourceful – and with enduring memories. Thanks to all the staff who have helped facilitate these experiences; I am proud of the way our boys have tested themselves and supported one another.