Dear Students, Parents, and Staff,

Concentration, at home and at school is the secret to successful schooling.

Recently whilst I was listening to the podcast “All in the Mind”, Neuropsychologist Dr Emma Fitzgerald, stated that the modern world is a very stressful place and, as a result, it is very hard to pay attention. She tells us the level of distraction is having an impact on behaviour and educational attainment – the world is a place where impatience is very common. Phones are a major distraction and combine this with a laptop, a television and indeed human beings. The age of multitasking is here and we need, as a society, and a school, to address this issue. Pope Francis also pointed out the value of the mobile phone and social media for creating and supporting communities. He also stated that they could entrap us and prevent the growth and  education of the youth of the world. St Aloysius is putting in measures to help students develop habits to limit the impact of technology and to reduce distractions, thereby encouraging academic success. The aim of many of these policies and procedures is to help maintain concentration.

Concentration is the cornerstone of effective learning. In the fast-paced and often distracting environment of a school, maintaining focus can be a significant challenge for students. Whether it's the buzz of conversation, the lure of technology, or the internal pressures of academic performance, distractions are everywhere. Together with the partnership of student, parent and teacher, we can work together to create an environment where concentration improves and therefore learning improves.

Here at St Aloysius we as educators strive to:

Create a Structured School Environment
We look to set clear routines and expectations to help minimize distractions.

Incorporate Active Learning
We seek to engage students with discussions, group work, and hands-on activities. 

Break Lessons into Chunks
We aim to divide content into manageable segments, with varied activities.

Use Visual Aids and Technology Wisely
We seek to use interactive technology to break up and engage the learner.

Check for Understanding Regularly
We regularly ask questions or use quick assessments to keep students engaged and ensure they are following the material.

Model Focused Behavior
We strive to maintain attentiveness and enthusiasm in our teaching.

The Home Environment
At home we would like children and parents to work together on the following to support both teaching and learning;

Set Clear Goals
Encourage your child to set goals and targets for each lesson; this will prevent daydreaming.

Practice Mindfulness
Are there any breathing techniques or prayers which could calm the mind and help your child to remain focussed? The Examen is one method which certainly helps me.

Limit Digital Distractions
Have you considered limiting the use of phones, watches, laptops, televisions, or even “detox” from these distractions?

Take Regular Breaks
Ask your child to work for a specific set time at home (25 minutes) and then give them a break, and celebrate the work that has been completed!

Stay Organised
Get the study area at home organised. Have a desk tidy and reduce any opportunities to stop working on homework or revision.

Get Enough Sleep and Nutrition
A well-rested brain functions better. Balanced meals and proper hydration also play a role in cognitive performance. Encourage early nights and, if you can, remove all electronic distractions from the bedroom.

Let’s all work together to establish the correct environment for improved concentration and excellent educational attainment.