This week, teachers have been busy preparing for the new academic year. However, as well as looking forwards, we have also taken time to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2022. There are only forty-eight students in the state who achieved the highest possible ATAR of 99.95, and we are thrilled that three of these students were Meriden girls. Adele Dang, Eunice Thi and Shirley Wang each studied a different selection of subjects, reinforcing the message that students should choose the subjects they enjoy. The Top Achievers list and the overall results show that Meriden students are successful across all faculty areas. This depth is captured in the Academic Highlights brochure. I trust you have enjoyed browsing it.

ChatGPT

This AI app has generated much discussion in the media over the last few weeks. At the Heads of Department meeting, we talked about how we might utilise this new technology, whilst still ensuring reliable assessment for our students. Educational researchers are urging teachers to refrain from ‘demonising’ the technology in favour of discovering how it might promote learning. Click here to view Dr Cooney Horvath’s explanation of ChatGPT’s features and limitations. Importantly, the Heads of Department will ensure that our assessments are designed to evaluate student progress authentically. This means that we are assessing what the student has learned and what she needs to do next.

Professional Learning Focus 2023

Each year teachers focus on refining particular strategies to promote learning and improve their practice. This year we are considering the way we ask students to transfer a skill to a new context. Take writing – if a student can write a paragraph on Romeo and Juliet, can she write about another play? Can she write an essay? What do we need to do to make these skills more transferable? Over time you might notice that your daughter becomes more confident approaching new tasks.

I look forward to meeting you at the Welcome to Meriden Evening.