Structure
To achieve their potential, a high expectation is placed on every student to encourage their aspirations in meeting learning challenges and to be supported in the development of academic resilience. In striving for personal excellence, each student should demonstrate active learning. This is supported by Secondary School teachers using data for academic improvement and effective relationships to foster strong communication between staff and students.
Secondary School caters for students through a House structure. Students are assigned to one of five Houses – Cuthbert, Durack, Florey, Hollows and Lingiari. Sporting and other competitions are held on an Inter-House basis. Students are encouraged to value the role of service through Charity Days, the positive promotion of Mental Health awareness and support of students in younger years of the School.
The House-based Tutorial Groups see students remain in the same Tutor group led by the same Head of Year and guided by the same Tutor for their six secondary years. This facilitates the development of deep understandings and positive long-term relationships between students, staff and families.
Curriculum
We provide an extensive range of academic and vocational courses using contemporary approaches to teaching which allow our students to assess and choose their most appropriate post-secondary educational destination. The delivery of the curriculum in classes is supported by weekly learning assignments and daily Tutorials. We strive to equip students with the knowledge and skills to be self-directed learners with the capacity to plan and organise their studies.
At the beginning of Year 10, students undertake an intensive careers investigation programme. They discover and reflect on what they know about themselves, as well as exploring a range of careers and post-secondary courses. They also investigate the choice of courses offered in Years 11 and 12 to help guide them in achieving their chosen pathway. Our Subject Selection handbook is designed to assist in this process.
The School encourages all students to succeed no matter which career pathway they choose. Options for Year 11 and 12 students include ATAR pathway to university and a General/VET pathway to industry. Additionally, the School offers an ECU UniPrep program allowing students to complete university course work in Year 11 and 12 to achieve direct entry into University after completion of their course. Students wishing to undertake a VET pathway are offered the opportunity to undertake a School-based apprenticeship or traineeship in their chosen industry, allowing them to gain vital industry experience.
Pastoral Care
Pastoral Care is woven through the fabric of the School. Our staff provide a high level of care and support, getting to know each student and their individual needs. Led by our Deans of Students, we have a strong and supportive Pastoral Care model that includes:
- Class and Subject Teachers/House Tutors
- Chaplains
- Counsellors
- Heads of Department
- Heads of Year
As an Anglican school, our Chaplains complement our pastoral programmes by providing spiritual guidance, leading our students towards a life of purpose.
We are committed to the care, safety and protection of all students from Pre-Kindergarten through to Year 12, through the prevention, identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect. The responsibility of the School extends beyond academic success to the intellectual, physical, social and emotional development of children and the provision of a caring and supportive learning environment. To this end, we recognise that it is essential that the safety, health, welfare and wellbeing of our students are safeguarded at all times when in the care of the School, our teachers, staff and volunteers.