St Barbara's Parish School
St Barbara’s Parish School is a co-educational school that closely aligns itself with the life and vision of Saint Mary MacKillop. Our school’s motto is ‘Find An Opportunity to Shine’, whereby we challenge our staff and students to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives.
The Foundation to Year 9 setting is energised by the school’s vision and has a strong culture of welcome and inclusion for all, as well as a shared responsibility for student learning and wellbeing. With a focus on the strategic pillars of Curriculum & Co-Constructed Learning Design; Student Agency, Identity, Learning and Leadership; Community Engagement the school:
- Employs evidence-based pedagogical practices to achieve the highest possible learning outcomes for all students. This is grounded in explicit instruction and moving student knowledge from short-term to long-term memory.
- Fosters whole school culture in teaching and learning that articulates accountability for improved school outcomes together. This includes a focus on using data to inform teaching and learning priorities.
- Supports both students and staff to maximise growth in learning, using evidence-based Engagement Norms and a coaching model that promotes an ongoing professional learning community that prioritises collaboration and student and staff learning.
- Fosters opportunities for students to demonstrate agency in their learning, including goal setting and student-led conferences to empower students to articulate next steps in learning.
- Employs Leadership and preventative mental health education programs that support students and teachers to understand leadership and their psychological system; promoting a community of learners with a common understanding of the relationship between learning and wellbeing.
