As Term 1 came to a close at the Bakhita School of Excellence, our team came together for several days of staff training, reflection, and preparation — ensuring we continue to grow as educators and as a team.
A key focus of the training was strengthening classroom practice. Our teachers participated in specialist maths training with Volunteer Teacher Trish and literacy training with Volunteer Teacher Jane, both based in Australia. These sessions provided practical strategies to continue improving student outcomes in two of our core learning areas.
We also explored how we can better extend high-performing students and support those who need additional help, while continuing to strengthen collaboration between teaching partners. A dedicated session on teaching tools, including ChatGPT, allowed staff to consider how technology can be used in a practical and relevant way within our context.
Alongside professional development, time was set aside to invest in our team culture and connection. Staff participated in a range of activities including team challenges, appreciation circles, question circles, personal shield activities, and “this or that” — all designed to build trust, communication, and understanding across the team.
We also held several important reflection and planning sessions, including:
- A review of Strengths, Opportunities and Weaknesses (SOW) during the term
- A reflection on the period while the Director was in Australia
- A review of the school menu
- A review of the team structure
- Revisiting our values and policies
- Planning for the upcoming school anniversary celebrations
Finally, the team worked together to clean, organise, and prepare the school for the term ahead — ensuring that both classrooms and shared spaces are ready to support learning from day one.
This time together is an important part of how we continue to improve — not just in what we teach, but in how we work together. As we head into Term 2, the team does so with renewed clarity, stronger skills, and a shared commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for our students.