Learning and Teaching 

Building Strong Learners Through the MACS Vision for Instruction

At St Joseph's, we are committed to helping every student flourish through the MACS Vision for Instruction. This evidence informed approach recognises that every student can succeed when teaching is explicit, responsive and built on strong relationships and high expectations.

The Vision for Instruction provides a consistent approach to teaching and learning across every classroom. Teachers clearly communicate the Learning Intention (what students are learning) and Success Criteria (how students will demonstrate their learning). New knowledge and skills are explicitly taught through clear explanations, modelling, guided practice and regular checks for understanding. This allows teachers to respond to student learning in the moment, providing additional support or extension where needed. Students then have opportunities to practise independently, receive timely feedback and revisit important learning so it is retained over time.

Reading – The Foundation for Learning

One of the most important priorities within the Vision for Instruction is developing strong readers. Reading is the gateway to learning across every subject. When students become confident readers, they are better able to understand mathematics word problems, investigate scientific concepts, explore history, engage and express their ideas through writing.

At school, students participate in explicit reading instruction that develops the essential components of reading, including phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension. Teachers model reading strategies, provide guided practice and monitor student progress so that instruction meets each learner's needs. Students also have opportunities to read a variety of rich and engaging texts that build both knowledge and a love of reading.

How Families Can Support Reading at Home

Parents and carers play an important role in helping children become successful readers. Just 10–20 minutes of reading each day can make a significant difference to a child's confidence, vocabulary and overall achievement.

Here are some simple ways you can support reading at home:

• Read with your child every day, even after they can read independently.
• Encourage your child to read aloud and talk about the story, characters or information they have read.
• Ask questions such as, "What happened? Why do you think that happened? What do you think will happen next?" to build comprehension.
• Read a variety of texts together, including novels, information books, magazines, recipes, maps and newspapers.
• Make reading part of your daily routine by setting aside a quiet time free from distractions.
• Let your child see you reading. Children are more likely to value reading when they see adults enjoying books and other texts.

Reading together is about much more than practising words on a page. It builds language, strengthens thinking, develops curiosity and creates valuable opportunities for conversation and connection.

By working together, home and school can provide the best possible conditions for every child to thrive. Through the MACS Vision for Instruction and a shared commitment to reading, we are equipping our students with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to become successful learners for life.

Kind regards

Megan Barber