Education Matters

By Tim Bowden, Head Master

I have been thinking a lot recently about apologies, and what makes a good apology.

Topics: Parenting tips, Raising boys, Adolescence, Christianity, Boys learning

During the primary years, Trinity adopts the International Baccalaureate’s (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), which aims to develop students who are internationally minded. Year 6 students are encouraged to consider a variety of perspectives in exploring some of our society’s biggest issues through the PYP Exhibition. This collaborative experience between students, teachers, the school and wider community is designed to celebrate the transition of learners from primary school into secondary school. The PYP Exhibition is an opportunity for each Year 6 boy to demonstrate the way he has grown as a learner throughout his time in primary school.

Topics: Boys learning, Education, Junior School, Students

By Matthew De Belle, Year 9

The Trinity Field Studies experience is quite unique. It is an opportunity we would not get to be part of anywhere else. It is a valuable experience for everyone who takes part in the Field Studies programme. There is a lot to learn and new things to try for all. There is much to say about my time spent at Field Studies, I had my fair share of challenges and highlights like everybody. There was also much fun to be had during our four-week stay.

Topics: Outdoor education, Trinity difference, Raising boys, Risk-taking, Academic excellence, Improve learning, Boys learning, Education, Students

In today’s technology-based world children can become heavily exposed to digital technology. Research shows that the more time that children spend interacting with technology, the less time they spend outdoors. It is thought that children today spend just 10 percent of their time outdoors, compared to their parents who spent at least 40 percent of their time outside. The implications of reduced outdoor exposure can be significant, especially in terms of health and wellbeing. The mental health benefits of outdoor education are particularly meaningful.

Topics: Outdoor education, Trinity difference, Risk-taking, Boys learning, Education, Mental health

By Tim Bowden, Head Master

Pithy little sayings encapsulating helpful wisdom are not hard to find. Sometimes they appear in social media feeds, sometimes in books, and sometimes they are transmitted in conversation with others. The problem is not so much in finding them, but remembering them and putting them into practice.

Topics: Boys learning, Study tips, Education

Digital technology, which includes computers, smartphones and tablets, as well as social media and other mobile apps and digital software, is pervasive in a boy’s personal life. However, digital literacy is important in education as it is a proven tool for enhancing learning experiences. Boys already have access to and familiarity with a range of digital tools — parents can encourage the utilisation of these tools to make for a more effective learning experience. Here are just some of the ways digital technology can support learning:

Topics: Academic excellence, Improve learning, Technology, Boys learning

While many independent schools in Australia have an affiliation to a specific religion, many seek to ensure their community is diverse and represents the mix of religions, races, and cultures, found in our ever-increasing multi-cultural society. Whether in primary or secondary education, religious diversity strengthens the school community and helps students to gain a wider perspective, while developing empathy and an appreciation of others’ viewpoints.

Topics: Trinity difference, Raising boys, Pastoral care, Christianity, Religious education, Boys learning, Diversity

By Tim Bowden, Head Master

I recently came across the saying “If you can’t get out of it, you might as well get into it.” I think it is a brilliantly pithy articulation of a significant truth, which has particular relevance to our boys but has an equally pertinent application to all of us.

Topics: Parenting tips, Fathering, Raising boys, Boys learning, Education

With the ubiquitous nature of technology, it is clear that we live in a visual age. Central to this is a visual arts education. Although the practical skills taught in visual arts aren’t typically measured with tests or exams, these qualities are relevant and applicable in the workforce. As Elliot Eisner, Professor Emeritus of Child Education at Stanford University says, “We want our children to have basic skills. But they will also need sophisticated cognition, and they can learn that through the visual arts.”

Topics: Boys' education, Creative empowerment, Arts, Boys learning, Creative arts

By Bradley Barr, Deputy Head Master

How do you raise boys to become good men? How do you make sure they learn the ‘right’ lessons (and) find (the ‘right’) path to follow? How do you ensure they’ll be OK? - Celia Lashlie

Topics: Parenting tips, Boys' education, All boys education, Fathering, Trinity difference, Raising boys, Pastoral care, Boys learning, Diversity