Learning and Teaching News

Self-Efficacy and Active Participation

A key focus at SMDP this year is strengthening students’ self‑efficacy and active participation in their learning. We want every child to feel capable, confident and willing to take part, knowing that their ideas and efforts matter. Guided by the MACS Vision for Instruction, teachers are embedding consistent practices across the school — such as clear learning intentions and success criteria, regular reviews of previous learning, and opportunities to respond that encourage students to explain their thinking, take risks, and celebrate progress. By building these habits into everyday learning, we are helping students develop the belief that they can succeed and the skills to participate fully and confidently in their classroom community.

Term 1 Inquiry Focus for 

Grade 5 and 6

Our Year 5/6 students have begun their new Inquiry unit, which brings together the Victorian Curriculum 2.0 areas of History and Civics and Citizenship. 

This term, students are exploring the guiding question: How do people and events shape who we are, and how we live together in a democracy? They will investigate how identity is influenced by culture, history, community and personal experiences, and how different groups in Australia — including First Nations peoples — express identity and belonging. Students will also examine key events such as colonisation, Federation and rights movements to understand how these moments have shaped modern Australia. 

In Civics and Citizenship, they will explore how democracy works, how power is shared, and why rights and responsibilities help keep communities fair and inclusive. This week, students began by unpacking the concept of identity, getting to know one another and building a strong, respectful learning community. They created mind maps to show the many influences that shape who they are. 

Sofia Grade 6 

Akshita Grade 6 

Percy Grade 6 

Olivia Grade 6 

Welcoming our 2026 Leaders

We look forward to seeing them grow, serve and inspire in 2026. 

Kathy Blythe

Learning and Teaching Leader