By connecting to the real world of students’ lives, authentic learning enables students to become lifelong learners who contribute to society and the wider world as active and discerning citizens. Authentic learning is central to our work as Catholic educators because it promotes the continual growth and wellbeing of the whole person — spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially and physically.
School-Wide Vision for Learning: ‘Empower Every Student’
Keystone: Empowerment
Empowerment is the Keystone to learning success.
“Empowered Learners” are inspired to aim higher and strive further to achieve. They are able to make connections that are relational, diverse, contemporary and adaptive, linking their learning to the real world.
A school with a vision to ‘Empower Every Student’ aims to enable children to have the knowledge and skills to become lifelong learners.
At Fr John Therry Catholic Primary School we are committed to an Authentic Pedagogical Framework that is aligned with contemporary teaching and learning. Our School-Wide Vision for Learning is to ‘Empower Every Student’ through the following pedagogical principles:
Touchstone 1: Relational
“Relational Learners” can successfully collaborate with others and connect their learning experiences across the curriculum and in real-life situations.
In a school that focuses on ‘empowering’ relationships, learners will feel confident when interacting with others and in their ability to integrate learning experiences to achieve success in all contexts.
Touchstone 2: Diverse
“Diverse Learning” occurs when the individual needs of all learners are recognised, responded to and respected.
In a school that focuses on ‘empowering’ individuals, learning best occurs in an inclusive and challenging environment that is highly differentiated and builds upon personal strengths for student growth and development.
Touchstone 3: Contemporary
“Contemporary Learners” are immersed in authentic learning experiences reflective of the dynamic world in which they live, using contemporary practices and technologies.
In a school that focuses on ‘empowering’ learners, pedagogy needs to incorporate a contemporary approach to curriculum delivery that deepens and enriches all students and is tailored to the needs of individuals.
Touchstone 4: Adaptive
“Adaptive Learners” can respond to a variety of learning situations, in order to challenge themselves within a culture of continual improvement and reflection.
In a school that focuses on the key principle of ‘empowerment’, learners will develop resilience and be able to adapt and apply their learning to many situations and opportunities across all Key Learning Areas.
Our pedagogical framework is underpinned by our Catholic values of Faith, Justice and Trust. It connects our rich history of providing quality education from our past, to the present and into the future so that all students can be ‘Empowered’.