to download 'Faith News' 2010 - Faith Lutheran College

principally
speaking
Dear Parents, Students, Caregivers, Staff,
Old-scholars and Friends,
There is an increasing pressure on schools to deliver
government programs and to establish environments and
curriculum which address issues such as bullying, adolescent
development and cyber challenges. I believe at Faith, we
do our best to provide a broad, challenging and relevant
education in a Christian setting. An environment which
provides engaging opportunities, strengthens character
and offers a powerful alternative to the socially destructive
behaviours which our students are confronted with in their
world. Given the expectations on schools to adapt their
teaching and learning practices in light of the changing needs
of students and society, it was timely this year to reflect on
our current practice and establish our visions for the future.
In February, a consultant was engaged to help the Faith community develop the new Strategic Plan. After much
consultation, our goals were agreed upon and will focus on:
• Middle Years approaches including offering Year 7 on the Faith site,
• Senior School development, taking into account the needs of our students,
the new SACE and the Australian curriculum,
• Staff training and support,
• Enhancing Faith as a worshipping community,
• Strengthening family and community involvement in the school.
Regarding the first of these goals, the Lutheran Schools Association will undertake a study of the future provision
and structure of Lutheran Education in our region, encompassing schools in the Northern suburbs, through to
Gawler and the Barossa Valley. Changes in the education scene and predicted population growth in the region have
contributed to the need for this study. Faith Lutheran School supports this major study as the data will help inform
our aim to establish a Year 7 to 9 Middle School on the Faith campus by 2013 at the earliest.
As we look to future provision of curriculum, staffing and community needs, we must also consider our building
and facilities. In the short term, the school will undertake a major refurbishment of the Music suite and the Physical
Education area and the Master Plan will be developed in 2011.
Our community continues to celebrate our old-scholars and we encourage their ongoing interest and participation
in the life of the school. I ask families to keep the school up to date with the achievements and pursuits of their
children.
I hope this issue of Faith News finds you well and that the stories and experiences within, keep you up to date on
our journey.
Gavan