Learning & Teaching

MACS Vision for Engagement

In June this year, MACS launched their system-wide roadmap to optimising classrooms and schools for learning. The existing Vision for Instruction (VfI) provides guidance on "what we teach and how we teach it" in key areas such as English and Mathematics. The Vision for Engagement (VfE) sits alongside this and outlines "the conditions essential for learning" in all learning areas. 

There are many overlapping areas of both visions. The starting point for student engagement continues to be high-quality classroom instruction for all. When we talk about engagement at St Mark's we think about;

• Cognitive engagement - students actively thinking about their learning, using strategies, and seeking deeper understanding. 
• Behavioural engagement - students actively participating in learning activities, completing assignments, and persisting through challenges. 
• Emotional engagement - students experiencing positive emotions like curiosity, joy, and a sense of belonging, as well as feeling motivated and invested in their learning. 

The MACS Vision for Engagement (VfE) is based on evidence of how students learn and thrive, and articulates six engagement practices that, when attended to in a consistent and sustained manner, create enabling learning environments and support young people to be learners. 

1. Teaching respectful behaviour
2. Fostering belonging
3. Focusing on attendance
4. Promoting mental health and wellbeing
5. Enabling motivation
6. Targeting individual learning needs

The release of the MACS Vision for Engagement (VfE) has been affirming for us at St Mark's and I am sure you will be able to identify strategies, processes and procedures that align with the above engagement practices.

Miss Claire - Deputy Principal and Learning & Teaching Leader

claire.white@smfawkner.catholic.edu.au