Inside & Outside the Classroom
In developmentally responsive middle grades schools, curriculum encompasses every planned aspect of the educational program
— AMLE 2010 p.17
Inside the classroom
The Australian Curriculum, understood within a Biblical framework, is delivered in a manner designed to engage and excite young adolescents. The Middle School is a dynamic learning environment that caters for the specific development needs of the young adolescent. Developmentally appropriate learning activities integrate learning from various fields of learning in order to connect it with life outside of school. Lessons are hands on, designed to meet the needs of the Middle Years student and extend the learning environment beyond the four walls of the classroom. Students grow in confidence, in their knowledge of the God of the Bible and in their understanding of themselves through the Life Skills and Christian Living programs.
Years 7 and 8 students remain in close contact with their class and class mentor for the year, ensuring close connections and a smooth transition into the Middle Years program. 'The Rite Journey’ is a program of discovery and growing independence. The program specifically targets leadership gifts and includes activities that invite students to transition from childhood to adulthood.
Outside the classroom
To ensure the education of the whole child, we acknowledge that students must be exposed to the world outside the classroom. A generous number of sporting, musical and cultural opportunities are available to students before and after school. Winter and Summer fixtures of interschool sports, athletics, cross country and swimming carnivals are held in order to select representatives for district, regional and state competitions. Musical students can choose from a broad range of musical instruments and voice to continue or commence study. Many opportunities for musical performances exist at school during and after school, in local community events and in the Bundaberg Eisteddfod. Students also have access to an extensive Hoof ‘n’ Hook program in which students learn to work closely with cattle to prepare and show them throughout South East Queensland.
The progression of authentic, consequential learning opportunities also exists in the growing outdoor program. Embedded in an intentionally designed program is the opportunity for students to grow their character, competence, and their connections with community and creation. The outdoor program includes a variety of compulsory outdoor programs involving overnight camping, hiking, canoeing, ropes courses and more.