For the past twelve years, Cornerstone has recognised the need to assist teaching staff by having a specialist teacher dedicated to working with small groups within a year group to develop literacy and numeracy skills. With this in mind, the Learning Support Centre was created and has been very successful in its supporting role.
Co-ordinating this vital program is Mrs Lynn Chapman. Lynn holds a Bachelor of Science (BScAg Ed major) from Sydney University and Sydney Teachers College, as well as a Diploma in Ministry and Missions from Sydney Missionary and Bible College. She holds over 15 years of teaching experience – with nine of those being with us at Cornerstone. Lynn exhibits the highest levels of professionalism and is well liked and respected within the College. She has a great desire to see every student reach their utmost potential.
Lynn works collaboratively with teachers to develop individual education plans. Teachers will refer students to her for academic testing as they deem necessary. The services of the School Psychologist (through the Association of Independant Schools in WA) and a Speech Pathologist and Occupational Therapist (Naturaliste Community Health Centre) are called in to consult, assess and provide programs and suggestions for students who are at educational risk.
Lynn really loves the opportunity to work one on one and with small groups of students and watch their progress step by step. Those ‘now I get it’ moments are especially memorable for her and a highlight of her job. Lynn has a tremendous ability to encourage and build up each student she encounters and this skill is recognised and celebrated within Cornerstone. She is a dedicated and committed teacher who delivers the most remarkable program. She enjoys explaining concepts to a child who finds elements of their education difficult, and ensures that she teaches in a number of different ways to help them understand.
As well as working with students personally, she also co-ordinates a very enthusiastic team of parent helpers who are of great value to the College.
Lynn firmly believes that each student is different and valuable. The outcome she desires for each is: ‘To know that we all have different areas of ability and all have to work harder in some areas than others. To know God has created each of us with different strengths and learn the value of putting in extra effort when the going is tough’, she said.
Lynn loves learning about the different ways God has wired our brains to learn and the amazing way language learning works. She also anticipates expanding her knowledge by completing a TESOL course (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) during 2011 whilst she takes some much deserved Long Service Leave.
The College’s desire through the Learning Support Centre is to see all students reach their personal best. Under Lynn’s capable direction, there is no doubt that this goal is achievable.
