Leader of Pedagogy

Welcome to 2026!

A Strong Start to Learning in 2026

As we begin the 2026 academic year, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to our students, families and staff. The start of a new year is always an important time to set shared expectations around student learning and I’m looking forward to working with our community of learners for the next year.

Year 7 PAT Testing

In the first few weeks of term, Year 7 students will be completing PAT Testing (Progressive Achievement Tests) in both Reading and Mathematics. Whilst these assessments are not exams and do not require any additional study, we are completing them in exam style conditions to practiuce what this will look like as students progress to the HSC. For teachers, these assessments will provide valuable diagnostic information that will help us understand each student’s current skill level and learning needs. 

PAT data supports: 

• Targeted teaching and differentiation
• Informed class grouping and intervention planning
• Monitoring of student learning growth over time

Most importantly, PAT Testing helps us meet students where they are at, ensuring that learning is appropriately challenging and supportive from the very start of secondary school. If you have any questions surrounding these tests, please don’t hesitate to contact me on nmellows@arm.catholic.edu.au. 

Being Prepared for Learning

Being prepared for a day of learning goes beyond just gaving the right equipment for the day. It includes: 

• Arriving on time and being engaged
• Maintaining consistent routines
• Demonstrating consistent effort and persistence

When students are prepared, they position themselves better to make progress, take risks in their learning and build confidence. 

Our Pedagogical Focus

In 2026, our pedagogical focus is grounded in Empowering Every Learner. This means using evidence-informed teaching practices, meaningful data, and timely feedback to ensure learning is accessible, challenging and responsive for all students. 

Teachers will continue to work collaboratively to design learning experiences that recognise individual student strengths, address learning needs, and promote growth. By empowering students to be learners, we are able to support them in developing their skills, confidence and indpendence needed to engage on a deeper level with their learning. 

Thank you in advance for your continued support as we begin another year of learning together. 

Ms. Natalie Mellowship

Leader of Pedagogy