Pedagogy and Academic Leadership

Strengthening Our Community: Peer-Led Learning at Loreto

This week, we come full circle with our academic session time - a part of the school day intentionally carved out to deepen understanding, spark curiosity, and give students the tools to take ownership of their learning. Over the past ten weeks, our students have immersed themselves in a rich and varied program led by our passionate staff. They have explored texts beyond the syllabus in wide reading sessions, strengthened their critical thinking through research and AI workshops, and revisited key concepts to fill knowledge gaps across varied subjects. In language workshops, they have refined their communication skills, while religious reflection sessions have provided space for thoughtful discussion and personal growth. Skills sessions in mathematics, science, and digital technology have encouraged inquiry and problem-solving, giving students opportunities to deep dive into external investigations and apply their understanding in new and creative ways. These sessions have not only reinforced content but have fostered independence, curiosity, and a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom. 

In the spirit of giving back, next week, our Year 12 student executive will lead an academic advice session for our Year 11 students. As they prepare for their final years of schooling, Year 11 students will benefit from the insights and experiences of those who have walked this path before them.

The Year 12 team has been meeting to reflect on the strategies, habits, and mindset shifts that made a difference in their own learning journey. From managing workload and making the most of feedback to handling setbacks, building consistent study patterns and staying motivated, they are curating the kind of practical advice they wish they had known a year ago. This peer-led session will not only provide valuable guidance but also reinforce the culture of support and mentorship that characterise our Loreto leaders and community.

At Loreto, learning goes beyond individual achievement; it’s about sharing knowledge, uplifting others, and fostering our collective growth. We look forward to witnessing the wisdom and generosity of our Year 12 student executive in action as they pass on their insights to the next generation of senior learners during our final academic session of Term One.

Mel Pedavoli

Assistant Principal Pedagogy and Academic Leadership