It was wonderful recognition to be listed as ‘Finalists’ in the Australian Education Awards in two categories, our Teaching & Learning Framework and Professional Learning Program. 

As Principal Michelle Carroll commented, “To be listed as ‘Finalists’ in the Australian Education Awards is an impressive and significant recognition of our collective work on a national scale and reflective of the careful deliberations and innovation in design of both programs.”  

The development of both programs has required considerable research and consultation. We are proud to have implemented bespoke programs in teaching and learning for students and teachers, aligned to our Towards 2025 Strategic Intents of Academic Achievement through our Teaching for Thinking Agenda and the Development of Exemplary Staff. We value and nurture our students and teachers through our frameworks, strategies, and programs. A key priority is evidence-based programs where we visibly see the positive outcomes for students and staff. 

Our Teaching and Learning Framework delivers innovation in curriculum design integrated into student and teacher learning and programs. This year all Senior School teachers are learning in cross Faculty Professional Learning Teams (PLTs) led by a trained teacher coach.  

These professional collaborations with colleagues have led to a supportive environment where teachers are working on their Reflective Practice Portfolio to develop curriculum that is focused on our Learner Competencies and Character Dispositions, articulated in our Teaching & Learning Framework (see below). Teachers select a Learner Competency such as Inquiry or Collaboration to develop Resilience and Creativity in their students. The purposeful alignment of our Professional Learning Program to our Thinking Agenda has improved the academic achievement of all our students. 

Nominated as a Finalist for our Teaching and Learning Framework implemented in 2022

Thinking Classroom – Year 9 Signature Programs 

Our Framework underpins all the learning programs we develop for our students. Over the last three years we have implemented some highly innovative and signature programs for our students. A highlight has been the Year 9 Signature Programs offered to students, which is being expanded in 2023. 

Our Academic Programs in Year 9 foster partnerships with Alumnae mentors, tertiary institutions, and industry leaders to further explore and build on our Year 9 students’ capabilities and career interests. Our Harkness-inspired discussion lessons across Humanities classes capture the intellectual endeavour, critical thinking, and curiosity within our Year 9 students. Details on some of our 2023 subject signature programs are: 

English: Students are examining the theme of ‘inequality’ through engaging with a range of texts that raise awareness of the conditions that give rise to inequality across history and places. 

Science: Students are completing an extended scientific investigation using inquiry-based science. 

Mathematics: Students are learning how to use the graphics calculator (basic steps, strategies, tips, shortcuts). This has created engagement and confidence by providing creative workshops that expose ways to use the graphics calculator outside of the standard classroom setting. 

Year 9 Critical Conversations Program

Humanities: The Harkness-inspired Critical Conversations Program in Geography and History continues this year. The use of the Harkness round tables to encourage conversation and discussion continues to work as the architectural centerpieces of the learning spaces for the Year 9 Humanities classes. 

Outcomes for Students  

• Embedding a Thinking Classroom culture across all subjects and creating programs that align with the social, emotional, and cognitive skills students need in learning and life. 
• Developing our student learning dispositions of being Bold, Independent, Creative, and Resilient. 
• Focusing on enhanced student knowledge and skills in Collaboration, Inquiry, and Agency. 
• Increasing engagement and interest in subjects at Year 9 and future pathways for students.  
• Expanding the capacity of students to analyse, reflect and review their thinking and learning creatively and critically. 

Recently I asked Flora Du, our 2023 School Co-Captain, what has been the impact of St Catherine’s School on her learning.  

“St Catherine’s has shaped my learning, not only in the way that I approach studying, but also in the subjects I am currently doing. I’m so thankful that we offer a wide range of electives, and that in the younger Years our students can select a specific pathway they desire. I think that many of my current academic strengths are attributed to how I could tailor my path based on my interests from quite a young age, allowing me more time to develop my abilities with more depth and confidence.” Flora Du Year 12 Co-Captain

It is a privilege to work in partnership with the students and teachers at St Catherine’s to develop and implement our innovative Teaching and Learning Framework and student academic programs.