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The most powerful learning happens just outside our comfort zone, with effort, support and courage.

Learning does not always feel easy—and that’s a good thing. Research shows that students learn best when they are challenged to think, apply their skills and persist, rather than only completing tasks that feel comfortable or automatic.

The Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) explains that students learn more deeply when they are given appropriately challenging tasks that stretch their thinking, rather than simply repeating what they already know. When learning always feels easy, students can remain in their comfort zone and miss opportunities for real growth.

Feeling confused or “stuck” is a normal and important part of learning. This stage, often called productive struggle, is where understanding is built. It is not a sign of failure—rather, it shows that students are thinking, trying new strategies and working towards deeper learning with support.

When students feel safe and supported, they are more willing to step outside their comfort zone. Encouraging students to keep trying, even when learning feels difficult, helps build courage and confidence in their ability to learn and improve.

Parents and teachers play a key role in this process. Children benefit when adults set high expectations, value effort and persistence, and support students through challenge rather than removing it too quickly. These experiences help develop resilience and long‑term learning skills.

Importantly, struggle does not mean learning alone. Students are encouraged to try and persist, and to ask for help when needed. Asking questions, seeking clarification and requesting support are all positive and valued learning behaviours. Learning is strongest when effort is combined with guidance and feedback.

Encouraging children to have a go, stick with challenge and ask for help when needed supports them to become confident, resilient and independent learners—at school and beyond.

Term 2 Foundations for Inflaming Hearts & Minds in Christ: Courage

The Foundation for Inflaming Hearts & Minds in Christ focus for Term 2 is Courage. The document provides a scaffold that students are challenged to act upon. Engaging with this scaffold supports students to take learning risks, persist through challenges and develop confidence as learners.

Following this scaffold sets students up for a successful Term 2. Families are encouraged to revisit the Foundations document with their child during the term to reflect on progress and discuss how their learning and confidence are growing.

Together in faith.

Joyce Ison

Assistant Principal – Student Achievement