Curriculum
Sally Sparke, Heather Burke
Sally Sparke, Heather Burke
Welcome to Term 1
As we begin the academic year, the focus of the Curriculum team is high expectations for every student, every lesson. Our teaching teams are building a strong academic culture by showing students what quality looks like through models of high-quality work and clear learning goals. Teachers will continue to build students’ subject vocabulary, strengthen their understanding of what they are learning and why it matters, and provide clear feedback so students understand how they are progressing: where they are now, where they need to go next, and how to improve. Through structured support and consistent routines, we are developing curious, engaged and increasingly independent learners who take ownership of their progress and drive their learning forward. Our goal is to support every student to achieve personal excellence.
Families play an important role in helping students develop the habits that lead to growth and success. Working alongside the College, help students build consistent routines that promote independence and readiness for learning each day, including packing school bags and charging computers each evening. Provide a quiet, distraction-free space where they can focus on completing homework tasks.
Take an active interest in their learning by asking questions such as:
- If you could teach me one thing you learned today, what would it be?
- What was the most challenging task you worked on, and how did you approach it?
What goal are you working towards, and what steps are you taking to improve?
Together, by fostering reflection, responsibility and curiosity, we create the conditions for students to meet high expectations and experience success.
NAPLAN
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is an annual assessment for students in Years 7, and 9 across Australia. It provides information on essential skills in reading, writing, language conventions (spelling, grammar, and punctuation), and numeracy. This information helps teachers in identifying areas for growth and ways we can effectively support student learning.
This year NAPLAN will be held from Wednesday, 11 March to Friday 23rd March. During this time, students will complete short assessments covering reading, writing, language skills, and numeracy.
How Can Parents Support Students for NAPLAN?
Parents play an important role in helping their children feel confident and prepared for NAPLAN. Here are some simple ways you can support your child:
- Encourage a Positive Mindset: Talk about NAPLAN as a chance to show what they know rather than something to worry about.
- Familiarise Without Pressure: If your child is curious, you can explore practice questions together on the NAP website, but there’s no need for extra tutoring or intense preparation.
- Celebrate Effort: Remind your child that NAPLAN is just one part of their learning journey. Celebrate their hard work and progress.
- Ensure their Chromebook is charged.
Yr 7 Data Collection
In week 5 Year 7 students will participate in PAT Reading and Numeracy tests which their teachers will use to identify strengths and opportunities to support students as they transition into high school.
Sally Sparke
Assistant Principal - Curriculum
Heather Burke
Leader of Pedagogy/Curriculum
hburke1@arm.catholic.edu.au