Learning Areas
English
Language permeates all the Key Learning Areas of Junior School and secondary education and is fundamental to the learning process as students develop the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to talk, listen, read and write with purpose, effect and confidence.
Language is used to construct meaning and enable individuals to become effective communicators. Language skills are developed sequentially, spiralling from the real and literal to the abstract and complex. Students progress according to their ability and aptitude for learning.
Our English programme is designed to develop students' critical literacy that integrates talking, listening and critical thinking with reading and writing. The programme provides opportunities for students to develop their knowledge, understanding and appreciation of and skills in using English language and literature.
Students are given the opportunity to develop a practical understanding of the features and structures of language to inform their decisions about their own language usage. Through interaction with others students also develop independence in learning and accept ownership of learning outcomes.
Mathematics
At St Andrew’s we encourage the recognition of the need for mathematics in life experiences and to develop the students' ability to analyse information and solve problems. Our Mathematics programme is designed to develop students' favourable attitudes, confidence, knowledge, skills and sound understanding of concepts so they can work mathematically. Concepts and skills are explored sequentially, moving learning from concrete to abstract conceptualisation. Students develop appropriate language to effectively communicate mathematical ideas and experiences.
Students learn to think mathematically by estimation, gathering and recording data, drawing appropriate conclusions, applying facts and procedures and validating their answers. Students are encouraged to apply technology for problem solving and to become proficient in using IT and computing methodology. We challenge students to use mathematics creatively to express ideas and to make discoveries appropriate to their stage of development.
Science and Technology
Science and Technology is the Key Learning Area where students learn about natural and made environments by investigating, designing and making by becoming technologically proficient. Junior School Science and Technology adequately prepares students for life in the 21st century.
Our programme is designed to equip students to be active participants in our scientific and technological society. We aim to develop students' competence, confidence and responsibility for them to interact with science and technology and to enrich their lives, now and for the future.
Human Society and its Environment
Human Society and its Environment develops students' knowledge and essential understanding of themselves and others in their local and global communities. It predominantly involves the study of Australia's history and geography, the people who live within its territories and their social, cultural, economic and political lives. We seek to develop each student's academic and social skills, which enable them to acquire information, use an inquiry process and to participate in social and civic life. Students acquire a knowledge and appreciation of the City of Sydney as a learning environment. The School brings the rich resources of its heritage, history, values, location and links with the Cathedral to this Key Learning Area.
Christian Development
Christian Development is an integral part of learning at St Andrew's. We aim to provide students with an understanding of Faith that inspires their School and provides individual knowledge, skills, values and attitudes which underpin the development of the 'whole person' as part of the Spiritual development of each student.
LOTE – French
French is an introduction to a Language other than English. It is a ‘taste’ of the French language and equally importantly an insight into French culture. The main emphasis of the programme is learning about languages and learning about the world through languages. It is a means for students to make meaning within the contexts of culture and situation.
The programme incorporates a communicative approach focusing on the meaning and the context of the communication before dealing with the functional or structural components of the language.
Creative Arts - Visual Arts
The Visual Arts course enables students to understand, become accomplished in, and value the diverse nature of visual arts in society through experiences in art making, art criticism and art history. By being involved in a range of art making and studying activities including ceramics, sculpture, drawing, print making and multi-media, students also develop their imagination and creativity. Students develop powers of critical thinking, evaluation, research skills and organisation.
Creative Arts - Music
Music is a significant and integral part of St Andrew's curriculum to provide students with quality educational opportunities in an enjoyable, inclusive environment. We promote and reward effort and we encourage students to enjoy the process in their endeavour to achieve their best.
Music develops knowledge and understanding, skills, values and attitudes in performing, organising sound and listening. It is a spiral curriculum where students build on their conceptual understanding by revisiting the various concepts within a range of repertoire. Music participation and performance is encouraged on the basis that music is for everyone.
PDHPE
The PDHPE programme assists students to develop knowledge, understanding, skills, values and attitudes needed to lead healthy, active and fulfilling lives as part of their personal growth within an interactive society leading to achieving and maintaining mental, physical, social and spiritual well-being. Students are encouraged to be mindful and show concern and respect for the welfare, rights and dignity of all people. This Key Learning Area is concerned with developing the 'Whole Person'.
