Tailored learning to support academic excellence
Students graduating from St Michael's Collegiate have been renowned for achieving academic excellence for over 125 years. As our involvement with the Council of International School's indicates, we are a leader in curriculum innovation on a global level and deliver the highest possible standards in international education.
At Collegiate, we provide high-quality teaching and learning programs that are rigorous, relevant and underpinned by the Australian Curriculum. All programs are developed to meet the learning needs of students at each stage of development as reflected in our tailored school structure – Early Learning Centre, Junior School (Years K to 4), Middle School (Years 5 to 8) and Senior School (Year 9 to 12).
In the Junior School, each girl is provided with a firm grounding in numeracy and literacy, as well as the traditional subjects of reading, writing and mathematics. The teaching staff aims to develop habits of steady work and achievement for all students. Opportunities are provided for problem-solving, inquiry-based learning, and creative thinking, all of which form a solid base for continuing educational growth. In the early years, the principles of Reggio Emilia are used to engage children in child-centred learning. Teachers work to develop students’ resilience and a love of learning. Interactive whiteboards and computers are used increasingly as part of this program.
The Junior School classroom program is enhanced by specialist lessons in Faith and Life, Chinese, HPE, Music, and Art. Our librarian and well-resourced library support and enrich the classroom program.
Students in Years 5 to 8 participate in the Middle School curriculum which revolves around six key learning areas: English, Mathematics and Science, Health and Physical Education, Expressive Arts, Study of Society and the Environment and Languages Other than English. The learning areas focus on making connections in order to fully engage students in learning at this transitional developmental stage. The Middle School teachers provide a learning program that aims to engage students, guide responsibility for learning and nurture a deeper understanding of what they are learning. Our integrative curriculum program, Compass, also provides opportunities for cross curricular learning. Specialist teachers are involved on a regular basis in such subjects as Physical Education, Foreign Languages, Music, Art and Drama. In addition a comprehensive co-curricular program is offered as part of the school day, with activities that range across sport, academic pursuits, and the expressive arts, debating, competitive games, environmental studies, dancing, instrumental, orchestral and choral work.
The Senior School curriculum provides the consolidation and rigor necessary to prepare our students for the future.
In Year 9 we offer a broad academic base and work to maximise opportunities by providing a lively and interesting curriculum which promotes independence and personal responsibility through flexibility, engagement and experiences outside the classroom.
In Years 10 to 12 we offer a comprehensive and rich offering of subjects which students can choose according to their interests, abilities and career pathway plans. A well-developed mind, a passion to learn, and the ability to put knowledge to work are the keys to a secure future. The Collegiate staff are committed to educational excellence and to helping students realise their goals.
