MACS Flourishing Learners - Vision for Instruction

Exciting Learning Initiatives Across Our School

At St Mark’s, we continue to be committed to providing the best possible learning experiences for every child. This year, we have a range of exciting projects and professional learning opportunities underway to ensure students receive high-quality, evidence-based instruction.

School-Wide Focus on Comprehension:

As we continue to enhance learning and focus on comprehension across the school, our teachers are implementing strategies of ‘master teachers’, that have been proven in controlled trials to deliver the best outcomes for students. We are thrilled to once again be working with Dr. Nathaniel Swain, a highly respected expert in the science of learning and whole-school improvement. Throughout the year, he will be supporting staff through presentations and in-class demonstrations.

Year 3 to 6: Exploring the Ochre Literature Units

Our Year 3–6 teachers are improving literacy for all by delving into a structured, evidence-based approach that develops reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension skills systematically.They will be using the Ochre Literature Units, a rich resource designed to enhance students' reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.

Year 3 and 4: MACS Teach Well Masterclass

All Year 3 and 4 teachers are participating in the highly sought-after Teach Well Masterclass, provided by Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS). This professional learning opportunity will further equip teachers with effective strategies to support student learning.

Year 1 and 2: The Writing Revolution (TWR)

Our entire Year 1 and 2 teaching team along with our year 3-6 intervention teacher are undergoing training in The Writing Revolution (TWR). This program is designed to help all students become proficient writers, readers, and critical thinkers. Using the Hochman Method©, an explicit set of evidence-based strategies for teaching expository writing, our teachers will be well-equipped to support students in developing strong literacy skills. The method builds from sentences to compositions and is embedded in curricula across all content areas and year levels. The implementation brings consistency across the level and throughout the school and a common, coherent approach to writing instruction.

Foundation: Story Champs

Our Foundation teachers have been asking about exploring Story Champs, a fun and engaging program that promotes academic language development. This program helps young learners tell stories with confidence, build social skills, and develop essential literacy foundations through diverse and interactive activities.

Across St Mark's, these initiatives and conversations reflect the rich dialogue and growth that teachers continually seek and are designed to create engaging, high-impact learning experiences, ensuring that your child is supported in reaching their full potential. We look forward to an exciting year of learning and growth!

Carolyn Hunter

Literacy Leader