LEARNING AND TEACHING

Our Curriculum

Learning &
Teaching

At St Patrick’s School, we believe that every student is capable of thriving when empowered through purposeful, student-centered learning. Our vision for instruction, learning, and teaching is grounded in the belief that education should foster lifelong learning, personal growth, and the holistic well-being of every child.

We are committed to cultivating a learning environment where students are active participants in their education. We strive to build learners who are curious, resilient, reflective and students who confidently take ownership of their learning, engage meaningfully with the world around them, and respond positively to challenges.

Our approach to teaching is informed by current research and best practices. We prioritize evidence-based instruction, with a strong focus on explicit teaching, to ensure clarity, consistency, and high expectations across all classrooms. This approach supports all students, including those who require additional assistance, by making learning visible and achievable.

At the core of our curriculum are strong foundations in literacy and mathematics. We deliver structured, sequential programs that build essential skills in reading, writing, and numeracy. High-impact teaching strategies, including systematic phonics and targeted number instruction, are embedded to ensure every student develops the confidence and capability to access all areas of learning.

Education in Faith

At St Patrick’s School, our Education in Faith program is central to our identity as a Catholic community. We are committed to nurturing the spiritual development of every student by embedding Gospel values throughout our curriculum and daily life. Our faith-based education supports students in building a personal relationship with God, living out the teachings of Jesus, and contributing positively to the wider world.

Our curriculum is aligned with the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools Education Framework and supports students in exploring scripture, prayer, Church traditions, social justice, and the liturgical year. We foster a faith-filled environment where students are encouraged to ask questions, reflect on their beliefs, and grow as compassionate and active members of the Church.

Sacramental Program

The sacramental journey is an important part of faith formation at St Patrick’s and is undertaken in partnership with families and the parish community.

Sacrament of Reconciliation
Typically celebrated in Year 3, students prepare through a focused unit that explores God’s forgiveness, the importance of saying sorry, and making right choices. Preparation includes classroom learning, prayer, a family workshop and retreat day.
Sacrament of First Eucharist
Usually celebrated in Year 4, students deepen their understanding of the Mass, the Last Supper, and the significance of receiving Jesus in the Eucharist. Preparation includes classroom learning, prayer, a family workshop and retreat day.
Sacrament of Confirmation
Celebrated in Year 6, this sacrament completes the initiation into the Catholic Church. Students learn about the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit, the lives of the saints, and how they are called to live as witnesses of faith in the world. The program includes a retreat day, parish involvement, and reflection on personal responsibility in living out their faith.

Throughout all year levels, students engage in regular prayer, liturgies, class Masses, and whole-school celebrations that reflect the liturgical calendar. Social justice initiatives and service learning are also key aspects of our faith education, helping students to live out their faith through action.

English

At St Patrick’s School, we are committed to building strong foundations in literacy to ensure every student becomes a confident and capable communicator. Literacy is central to all learning and is taught through a structured, evidence-based approach that supports students in developing essential skills in phonics, reading, writing, and spelling.

Phonics and Spelling

We implement a systematic and sequential phonics program from the early years, ensuring students develop a deep understanding of letter-sound relationships. This approach lays the groundwork for accurate reading and fluent spelling. Explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, and morphology is embedded in daily practice to support students at all stages of development.

Reading

Reading instruction at St Patrick’s focuses on both decoding and comprehension. Students engage with a variety of texts and are taught strategies to understand, interpret, and respond to what they read. Guided reading, shared reading, and independent reading experiences are all part of our balanced literacy approach. Assessment tools are used regularly to monitor progress and guide targeted instruction.

Writing

Students are taught to write for a range of purposes and audiences, developing skills in planning, drafting, editing, and publishing. A strong focus is placed on sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary, with explicit teaching to support students in expressing themselves clearly and creatively.

Speaking and Listening

Oral language is a vital part of our literacy program. Students are provided with opportunities to develop their speaking and listening skills through class discussions, presentations, collaborative learning, and participation in liturgical and school events. These experiences build confidence, clarity, and respectful communication.

Our literacy curriculum is differentiated to meet the needs of all learners, and support is provided through intervention programs and enrichment opportunities. Through a consistent and high-quality approach, we aim to equip every student with the literacy skills needed for lifelong learning.

Mathematics

At St Patrick’s School, our Mathematics program is designed to develop confident, capable, and curious learners who can apply mathematical thinking to everyday life. We provide a structured, evidence-based mathematics curriculum that promotes deep understanding, fluency, problem-solving, and reasoning.

Our approach to teaching mathematics is both explicit and purposeful. Concepts are introduced in a clear, sequential manner, building from concrete experiences to abstract thinking. Lessons are designed to be engaging and inclusive, catering to the diverse needs of all students through differentiation and targeted support.

Key Features of Our Mathematics Program:

Number and Algebra: A strong focus on developing number sense, mental computation, and place value underpins students’ ability to work confidently with operations, patterns, and equations.
Measurement and Geometry: Students explore the properties of shapes, spatial reasoning, time, length, area, and volume through hands-on experiences and real-world applications.
Statistics and Probability: Students learn to collect, represent, and interpret data, and to understand chance and uncertainty in meaningful contexts.
Problem Solving and Mathematical Reasoning: These capabilities are embedded in all areas of learning, helping students to think critically, justify their thinking, and apply strategies to unfamiliar situations.

We use a combination of whole-class instruction, small-group work, and individualised tasks to ensure all learners are challenged and supported. Ongoing assessment, both formal and informal, guides our planning and helps identify areas for extension or intervention.

Above all, we aim to build positive attitudes toward mathematics and to equip students with the skills and confidence they need to apply mathematics in school and beyond.

Inquiry

At St Patrick’s School, Inquiry Learning is at the heart of our integrated curriculum. We believe that students learn best when they are actively involved in constructing their own understanding of the world. Through inquiry, students develop critical thinking, curiosity, and a deeper connection to their learning.

Our inquiry approach is built on big questions and real-world concepts that encourage students to explore, investigate, and reflect. Units of inquiry are designed to be purposeful and engaging, allowing students to make meaningful connections across humanities, science, sustainability, civics and citizenship, health, and the arts. Learning is structured to be developmentally appropriate, with a strong focus on student voice, choice, and ownership.

Key Features of Inquiry at St Patrick’s:

Student-Centered Learning: Students are encouraged to ask questions, wonder, and pursue answers through guided and open-ended investigations.
Integrated Curriculum: Inquiry units often combine multiple learning areas, helping students see how knowledge and skills connect and apply in real life.
Skills Development:Through inquiry, students build skills in research, collaboration, communication, analysis, and reflection.
Catholic Social Teaching: Many units integrate faith and values, encouraging students to consider issues of social justice, stewardship, and ethical action.
Assessment for Learning: Ongoing formative assessment, reflections, and project-based tasks provide opportunities for students to demonstrate understanding and for teachers to provide feedback and adjust instruction.

Physical Education

At St Patrick’s School, our Physical Education (PE) program promotes the physical, social, and emotional wellbeing of all students. We aim to develop confident, active learners who understand the importance of health, movement, and teamwork as part of a balanced lifestyle.

Our PE curriculum is aligned with the Victorian Curriculum: Health and Physical Education and is designed to cater for all abilities, encouraging participation, skill development, and a positive attitude towards physical activity.

Key Features of Our PE Program:

Foundation to Year 4 – Intensive Swimming Program: Students in Prep to Year 4 participate in an intensive swimming program, focusing on water confidence, stroke development, and water safety. These early experiences help build essential swimming skills and promote safety in aquatic environments.

Years 5 and 6 – Water Safety and Interschool Sport: Senior students continue developing their aquatic skills through a water safety program, preparing them to make safe choices in and around water. Additionally, students in Years 5 and 6 participate in interschool sport, representing St Patrick’s in a variety of team sports and building cooperation, resilience, and school spirit through competition and teamwork.

Athletics Carnival: All students have the opportunity to participate in our annual athletics carnival, a highlight of the school year. This event encourages participation, goal setting, and enjoyment of physical activity in a supportive, community-focused setting.

STEM

At St Patrick’s School, we are committed to fostering a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Our STEM program is designed to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity in students as they explore the world around them through hands-on, experimental, and inquiry-based learning.

The STEM curriculum is carefully integrated into the school’s learning framework, providing students with opportunities to engage in real-world problem solving and innovative thinking. Students learn through a blend of structured lessons, projects, and experiments that encourage them to ask questions, test ideas, and work collaboratively to find solutions.

Key Features of Our STEM Program:

Hands-On Learning: Students actively engage in building, creating, and experimenting. Whether designing simple machines, conducting science experiments, or coding, students develop problem-solving skills and an understanding of how STEM concepts apply to everyday life.

Inquiry-Based Learning: Our STEM program is driven by inquiry, allowing students to ask questions, explore hypotheses, and seek answers through investigation. This fosters a deep understanding of STEM principles while developing essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and resilience.

Experimental Learning: Students participate in experimental activities that test scientific principles and theories in real-time. These hands-on experiences help students make connections between what they learn in the classroom and how it applies to the world around them.

Collaborative Projects: Emphasis is placed on teamwork, as students work together on projects that require communication, planning, and problem-solving. Collaborative STEM projects help students learn the value of diverse perspectives and teamwork in innovation.

Art

At St Patrick’s School, we believe that creativity is an essential part of a well-rounded education. Our Art Program nurtures students' artistic expression, imagination, and appreciation for visual arts. Through hands-on learning, students are encouraged to explore different mediums, techniques, and art forms, helping them develop both their skills and their confidence as artists.

Key Features of Our Art Program:

Creative Exploration: Students from all year levels engage in a wide variety of art activities, including drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital art. The program encourages exploration of both traditional and contemporary techniques, helping students discover their individual creative styles.

Skill Development: As students progress through their years at St Patrick’s, they build on their skills, learning about composition, color theory, texture, and perspective. They are introduced to different artists and art movements, inspiring them to incorporate new ideas into their work.

Expression and Reflection: Art provides a unique opportunity for students to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Through their work, students develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Reflection and discussion on their artwork foster critical thinking and personal growth.

Student Art Show: Biannually, St Patrick’s hosts a Student Art Show, where students’ artwork is showcased in an exhibition for the entire school and community to enjoy. This biennial event celebrates the creativity of our students and allows them to share their artistic achievements with pride.

Music and Drama Program

At St Patrick’s School, we believe that music and drama provide vital opportunities for students to express themselves creatively, build confidence, and foster a sense of community. Our Music and Drama Program aims to inspire students to appreciate the arts, develop new skills, and collaborate with others in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Key Features of Our Music and Drama Program:

Music Education: Students engage in a broad range of music activities, from singing in the school choir to instrumental lessons and group performances. Our curriculum focuses on developing fundamental skills in rhythm, melody, harmony, and music theory. Students learn to play a variety of instruments and explore different musical styles.

Drama and Dance: Drama and dance are key elements of our program, encouraging students to express emotions, explore narratives, and develop public speaking, acting, and movement skills. Students engage in role-playing, improvisation, and choreographed dance routines, allowing them to build confidence, creativity, and teamwork while exploring different forms of performance.

Biannual School Concert: Every two years, St Patrick’s hosts a School Concert, where students come together to showcase their musical and dramatic talents. This highly anticipated event features performances such as choir renditions, instrumental solos, and dramatic productions.

Italian

At St Patrick’s School, we are proud to offer an Italian Language Program that immerses students in both the language and the rich cultural heritage of Italy. Our program is designed to not only teach students the fundamentals of the Italian language but also deepen their understanding of the traditions, customs, and history that shape Italian culture.

Key Features of Our Italian Program:

Language Immersion: Starting from Prep, students engage in an immersive learning environment where they are exposed to listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Italian. Interactive lessons, storytelling, songs, and practical language use are employed to help students develop their vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills in real-life contexts.

Cultural Exploration: Learning Italian goes beyond language—it’s a gateway to understanding the rich cultural landscape of Italy. Through art, music, food, history, and festivals, students experience the essence of Italian culture. This approach fosters appreciation for different cultures and helps students see the connections between language and the world.

Technology and eSafety

At St Patrick’s School, we are committed to equipping students with the skills and understanding they need to thrive in a digitally connected world. Technology is purposefully embedded throughout our curriculum to enhance learning, spark creativity, and prepare students to be informed, responsible digital citizens.

One-to-One Chromebook Program

From Year 1 to Year 6, students participate in our one-to-one Chromebook program, providing each learner with a personal device to support collaboration, inquiry, and personalised learning. Chromebooks are used across all subject areas, fostering independence, critical thinking, and engagement. This program is aligned with the Victorian Curriculum: Digital Technologies, ensuring students develop key digital skills and capabilities in a structured, progressive way.

eSafety and Digital Wellbeing

Digital safety and wellbeing are integral to our approach to technology. At St Patrick’s, students engage in a structured cyber safety and digital wellbeing program that empowers them to make safe, respectful, and informed choices online.

We proudly partner with Inform and Empower, a leading provider of eSafety education. Through their innovative and award-winning live-streamed incursions, students access expert-led, engaging content that covers critical topics such as online privacy, cyberbullying, digital balance, respectful online communication, and media literacy. These sessions are tailored to age and stage, supporting students to understand the responsibilities and risks associated with the digital world.

Our eSafety curriculum is proactive, ongoing, and responsive to the evolving digital landscape. It is supported by regular classroom learning, parent communication, and teacher professional development, ensuring a consistent and community-wide approach to online safety.

Intervention and Enrichment

At St Patrick’s School, we are committed to meeting the diverse learning needs of all students through a targeted approach to intervention and enrichment. Every child is supported and challenged to achieve their full potential, whether they require additional support or opportunities to extend their learning.

Our process begins with the systematic collection and analysis of student data, including assessment results, classroom observations, and teacher insights. This data is used to identify students who may benefit from intervention programs or enrichment opportunities. Regular monitoring ensures that supports are responsive and tailored to each student’s progress.

Intervention Support

Students who require additional help in areas such as literacy and numeracy are supported through structured, evidence-based intervention programs. These may include small-group or one-on-one sessions that focus on foundational skills. Dedicated intervention teachers work closely with classroom teachers to ensure a consistent and coordinated approach to student learning. Progress is regularly tracked to adjust instruction and celebrate growth.

Enrichment Opportunities

Students identified for enrichment are offered opportunities to deepen and extend their learning through differentiated classroom tasks, project-based learning, and participation in school-wide and external enrichment programs. These experiences are designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning.