Message from the Head of School - April 2025
Educational landscape at All Saints Grammar
The Australian educational landscape is evolving, with significant changes underway. In response to the Australian Curriculum, the New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA) has conducted a comprehensive review of the syllabus documents for all courses taught in NSW schools (NESA, 2020).
At the heart of this review is the goal to strengthen all courses by creating syllabuses that provide a knowledge-rich curriculum. This reform also emphasises the importance of an effective, evidence-based teaching and learning approach in every classroom, with a particular focus on explicit instruction – a proven pedagogy that enhances learning outcomes for all students. Research clearly demonstrates that when explicit teaching strategies are used, learning gains improve (Centre for Education Statistics and Evaluation, What Works Best Insights, 2020).
At All Saints Grammar, the contextualisation of these reforms has been an affirming process. Over the past decade, our school has been deeply engaged in developing and implementing an evidence-based learning and teaching framework, incorporating all the effective strategies of explicit instruction. This commitment has led to consistent improvements in our NAPLAN and HSC results over recent years.
The graph below illustrates the steady progress observed in our HSC data over the last five years, as reported by Academic Assessment Services:
Such consistent improvement has been made possible by the high levels of professional practice demonstrated by our teachers. Well-regarded educational research highlights the critical importance of building teacher professional capacity to increase the collective efficacy of our ASG team. The evidence is clear: collective efficacy has the greatest effect size (1.57) in enhancing student learning (Hattie, 2023). At All Saints Grammar, we continually invest in our teachers to ensure they deliver exceptional teaching in every classroom.
We remain deeply committed to fostering a holistic education for every student at our school. Our focus continues to be on delivering high standards of academic excellence, creating a safe and happy learning environment, and providing the resources necessary for students to flourish. We will also continue to emphasise the importance of character development, strong community connections, and our faith.
In this time of significant change, All Saints Grammar is well-positioned to continue offering an education that equips every student to become not only a better learner but also a better person.
Easter wishes
As we prepare to celebrate Greek Orthodox Easter, I extend my heartfelt wishes to you and your families for a blessed and joyful Pascha. May this sacred season bring peace, hope, and renewal to your hearts and homes.
I would also like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude for your ongoing support and partnership. Your involvement in our school community truly makes a difference, and we are deeply appreciative of your continued dedication.
Looking ahead to Term 2, please note that students will be required to wear their winter uniforms. Thank you in advance for your attention to this as we transition into the cooler months.
Capital works
We are also excited to share some wonderful news about our capital works:
Modular classrooms
Our new Modular classrooms at the Secondary Campus will be ready for use at the commencement of Term 2, marking an important milestone in enhancing our learning environment.
Playground equipment
Our Infants Playground will soon be opening, offering our youngest learners a vibrant and engaging space to play and grow.
Meet the Evzones
Members of the Hellenic Presidential Guard, known as the Evzones will be visiting from Greece in Term 2:
30 April – Secondary Campus
This is a tremendous honour, and we look forward to our students experiencing this unique cultural and historical tradition first-hand.
4 May – All Saints Church
The Evzones will also attend All Saints Church service on Sunday 4 May, providing another special opportunity for our school and parish community to come together.
Thank you once again for your unwavering support. We look forward to a productive and enriching Term 2, full of memorable learning experiences and community spirit.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful, safe, and blessed Easter!
