The staff at St. Joseph’s are committed to the following non-negotiables of learning and teaching:
Wellbeing
- Positive and trusting relationships with students lead directly to a strong sense of wellbeing in all learners.
- A culture is inclusiveness and respect is built and nurtured.
- Teachers take time to know the students in their care.
- Concerns and problems are listened to and acted upon.
- Physical, spiritual, emotional, creative elements of students are developed and nurtured.
- Individual differences are respected and understood.
- Student work is valued and celebrated.
- School rules are based on rights and responsibilities.
- School rules and routines are clearly understood.
Assessment
- Effective and ongoing assessment empowers teachers to drive high quality learning and teaching.
- Assessment drives planning.
- Assessment is both formative and summative.
- Assessment includes self and peer assessment.
- Students are taught how to set learning goals.
- Assessment data is analysed and used.
- Records and evidence are kept.
- Assessment results are shared with students and parents in ‘user friendly language’.
- Timely feedback is given to students.
Classroom Management
- The teachers are well planned and organised, creating a learning environment where all students experience success.
- Parents are welcomed into classrooms as helpers.
- Teachers model professionalism: their dress, behaviours, work programs and record keeping are of a high standard.
- The learning space is clean, tidy and inviting.
- Students see teachers as life long learners.
Engagement
- A strong belief is held by teachers and students that all learners can experience success given enough time and support.
- Tasks are set at the appropriate level (zone of proximal development).
- Students are ‘on task’.
- Students can articulate the ‘what’ and ‘why’ of their learning.
- Contemporary tools are integral in the learning process.