Parent-Teacher Interviews and Term 3 Reports

Thank you to parents who took the time to book parent-teacher interviews. Engaging in positive and meaningful conversation about your child’s progress at school is an important aspect of the learning process.

During the holidays, Term 3 reports will be published. School reports can stir up a mix of emotions, for children and parents alike. Whether the achievement levels are glowing or show room for growth, the way parents respond can shape a child’s confidence, motivation, and attitude toward learning. Here are a few tips to consider:

1. Start with a Conversation, Not a Critique

Instead of diving straight into marks and comments, begin with a simple question: “How do you feel about your report?” This opens the door for your child to share their perspective. Maybe they are proud, disappointed, or confused. Listening first helps you understand their emotional landscape before offering your own thoughts.

2. Focus on Effort Over Outcome

Academic performance is just one piece of the puzzle. Praise the effort, persistence, and progress, even if the grades aren’t perfect. Try saying:

• “I noticed you worked really hard in Maths this term.”
• “You’ve improved a lot in reading—well done for sticking with it.”

This reinforces a growth mindset, teaching children that learning is a journey, not a race.

3. Set Goals Together

If the report highlights areas for improvement, frame them as opportunities. Collaborate on realistic goals for the next term. For example:

• “Let’s aim for more consistent homework habits.”
• “How about we find a fun way to practice spelling together?”

When children help set their own goals, they’re more likely to stay motivated and accountable.

4. Offer Support, Not Pressure

If your child is struggling, resist the urge to jump into fix-it mode. Instead, ask what kind of support they need. Maybe it’s a quiet study space, or just more encouragement. Your role is to be their ally, not their taskmaster.

5. Celebrate the Whole Child

School reports don’t capture everything. A child’s kindness, creativity, resilience, and sense of humour matter just as much. Make sure they know they’re valued for who they are—not just what they achieve.

6. Keep Perspective

One report doesn’t define your child’s future. It’s a snapshot, not a verdict. Stay calm, stay curious, and remember: your response can either fuel their self-belief or chip away at it. Choose words that build them up.

Your child’s school report is a chance to connect, reflect, and grow together. With empathy, encouragement, and a dash of perspective, you can turn even the toughest feedback into a stepping stone toward confidence and success.

2026 Class Requests

Junior School teachers will soon begin the thoughtful and thorough process of allocating students to classes for 2026. This is a task we approach with great care, ensuring each class is balanced both socially and academically to support the best possible learning environment for every child.

As part of this process, students complete a survey at school to nominate peers they consider to be ‘good learning friends.’ These nominations are carefully considered to help ensure students are placed with peers who positively support their learning and wellbeing.

If there is a specific factor you would like to be considered as part of this process, this may be emailed to kmullan@wmac.com.au by Friday 24 October. While these requests will be considered as part of the process, not all requests are able to be met.

We appreciate your understanding that class placement is a complex undertaking, involving many factors. While we do our utmost to accommodate individual needs, our overarching goal is to create cohesive, inclusive, and well-balanced classes for all.

Kirsten Mullan 

Head of Junior School