‘° The teaching and learning within our Years 5 and 6 program is designed to foster an environment where students develop the academic and personal skills, values, knowledge and attitudes necessary to thrive in their future lives.”
Our innovative secondary model is central to this idea, designed to cultivate student agency and support later success through a unique approach that mirrors a secondary school model. This program incorporates specialist teachers, interdisciplinary curriculum links, experiential learning and assessment of learning to create individualised learning for each student.
The key to success in the Year 5 and 6 model is developing student agency during these formative years. Student agency is the ability for students to take an active role in their learning, making choices and decisions that affect their educational journey. It involves students having the power to direct their own learning, develop their own ideas and take responsibility for their progress and attainment in each subject. This autonomy not only enhances engagement, but also fosters the critical thinking and problem solving skills which are essential for our young people to succeed and positively contribute to society in the future.
The role of specialist teachers within the Years 5 and 6 program is pivotal. Each teacher is a subject-specific expert, who brings deep insights and knowledge to their area of the curriculum. This expertise allows our students to gain a more comprehensive understanding of each subject; thus encouraging them to see the value in different disciplines, whilst also understanding how they interconnect.
Staff members who join our dynamic team have been selected for their specialisation in the curriculum, ensuring that each subject is taught by someone with a passion and deep knowledge of their field. This approach enriches our ²υ³Ω³ά»ε±π²Τ³Ω²υ‘― learning experience and provides them with role models who show the importance of lifelong learning.
The OECD‘―s 2030 Learning Compass outlines how specialised teaching can significantly enhance ²υ³Ω³ά»ε±π²Τ³Ω²υ‘― understanding of complex concepts and helps them to apply their knowledge in various contexts. This is especially important in Years 5 and 6, as we know this is when young people begin to form their own academic interests and strengths.
This further supports the design and implementation of interdisciplinary links across the curriculum. By integrating concepts across learning areas, we encourage students to make connections between areas of knowledge, fostering a more holistic understanding of the world. This interdisciplinary approach not only makes learning meaningful, but also reflects real life contexts where problems and solutions often span multiple disciplines.
Understanding the role of assessment for learning is crucial in developing student agency. Formative assessments are ongoing evaluations that provide specific feedback targeted to our young people about their learning progress. Assessments are not just about grades; they are tools to help our young people identify their strengths and areas for improvement, preparing them to develop personalised learning goals.
At 91·οΓωΔρ³ͺ, teachers assess learning to create individualised learning plans tailored to each student‘―s needs. This approach ensures that every student receives the support and challenges necessary to reach their full potential. By actively involving students in this assessment process, we help our young people take ownership of their learning and develop the skills needed to set and achieve personal goals. Fostering a growth mindset is fundamental for developing resilience and perseverance: key attributes for success beyond their formal education.
Experiential learning is a crucial component of our Years 5 and 6 program, offering our young people hands-on experiences that deepen their understanding of academic concepts and their applications in the real world, creating lifelong memories. Annual study groups to Sovereign Hill, Canberra and Camp Ibis provide unique opportunities to engage in immersive learning environments. At Sovereign Hill, our young people explore Australia‘―s colonial and gold rush history, also developing an understanding of the impact that this time period had on our First Nations peoples. The trip to Canberra allows our young people to experience our nation‘―s capital, connecting knowledge of government and civics with real-world institutions. Camp Ibis focuses on outdoor education, teamwork and leadership skills, fostering personal growth and resilience. These experiences not only enrich academic learning, but also help students develop a sense of independence and a deeper connection to their community and environment.
Our commitment to providing?an?education for life?is deeply embedded in our approach to learning. At 91·οΓωΔρ³ͺ, we believe that education is not just about academic achievement, but about nurturing the whole child. We strive to create an environment where students are known, nurtured and loved, ensuring that each child feels valued and supported.
By fostering a love for learning and encouraging curiosity, we prepare our students for a lifetime of exploration and growth. The deep focus of our Years 5 and 6 program equips students with the tools they need for future success, empowering them to become confident, independent learners. The combination of specialist teaching, interdisciplinary learning and our approach to assessment and reporting ensures that our young people leave our care prepared not only for the academic challenges ahead, but also for the complexities of the world beyond the classroom.
Our dedication to fostering student agency in these formative Middle School years is a testament to our belief in the potential of every student. By providing them with the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to navigate their educational journey, we set them on a path to lifelong learning and achievement. Beyond this, the Year 5 and 6 team is passionate about continuing this journey with our young people and their families, building a community of empowered and engaged learners.
By Gaya Wignarajah, Years 5 & 6 Curriculum Coordinator
