Learning - Overview of Learning at SFdS
The teaching and learning at St Francis De Sales Regional College is driven by the principles espoused in the Framework for Learning (Diocese of Wagga Wagga, 2010). In an attempt to support an effective learning environment, we encourage the core beliefs that a community of learners:
- builds capacity which develops and refines sustainable skills for learning.
- promotes a curriculum which inspires, informs and engages students in their learning.
- develops their community, sharing values, attitudes, interests and goals.
- facilitates collaboration by working together to achieve a common goal of learning growth and wellbeing.
- creates connection through forming trusting relationships.
Students at St Francis College, as participants of communities of faith, learning, care, service and stewardship, are encouraged to become:
- faith filled, ethical and compassionate individuals.
- active and informed citizens.
- confident, creative and successful learners.
St Francis De Sales Regional College strives to provide a curriculum which promotes excellence and extends students through a challenging and values laden curriculum. The College structures, such as the patterns of study, the timetable and the range of extra-curricular activities, aims to support this. We provide a diverse curriculum and learning environment that is relevant to the needs of our students thus promoting the developmental process of learning, training and practising. Learning and Teaching at St Francis College places emphasis on fostering the intellectual and pastoral development of our students.
The College aims to meet the needs of a range of students who bring with them diverse abilities and interests. Creative thinking is valued and encouraged. The delivery of the school curriculum aims to foster self-motivated and independent learners who are capable of success beyond the school environment. It is therefore necessary that the school recognises the importance of students undertaking a broad range of courses. As well as a commitment to the traditional subjects, the College supports the role of practical subjects. These encourage the development of important and valued skills and serve to broaden the students’ horizons. In keeping with this philosophy, student choice largely determines the elective curriculum.
The College’s assessment and reporting policies are based on a standards reference approach that emphasises individual strengths and areas for development rather than focusing on performance comparisons between students.
Students are always encouraged to compete against themselves rather than against each other. Students are offered a range of diverse experiences that offer a snapshot of their academic performance at that time.
The College aims to extend gifted and talented students through programmes which include Mock Trial, Tournament of Minds, Chess Club, Debating, Public Speaking, Showcase performances/ art exhibitions, Boarders Got Talent Show and Eisteddfods. Students also participate in a variety of externally run and sponsored competitions.
In order to reinforce classroom learning experiences, teachers offer a range of relevant field trips and excursions. Extra-curricular activities are valued for the enrichment and extension they provide and are integral in the development of individual excellence, leadership and responsible citizenship.
The College strongly supports the importance of a well-rounded education and values the involvement of students in sport, cultural, spiritual, social and community activities. Sport is an integral part of the curriculum and students are encouraged to participate in whole school carnivals, competitions and recreational sport. Students have the opportunity to excel in sport to the highest level of which they are capable. Students are encouraged to develop individual and teamwork skills with the aim of striving to do one’s best, rather than simply on winning.