TEACHING & LEARNING
Students at St Vincent’s College benefit from a long and fine tradition of learning and teaching success.
TEACHING & LEARNING
Students at St Vincent’s College benefit from a long and fine tradition of learning and teaching success.
TEACHING & LEARNING
Students at St Vincent’s College benefit from a long and fine tradition of learning and teaching success.
TEACHING & LEARNING
Students at St Vincent’s College benefit from a long and fine tradition of learning and teaching success.
TEACHING & LEARNING
Students at St Vincent’s College benefit from a long and fine tradition of learning and teaching success.
TEACHING & LEARNING
Students at St Vincent’s College benefit from a long and fine tradition of learning and teaching success.
Developing Personal Excellence
Our educational philosophy recognises the individuality and giftedness of each student and it promotes the development of her intellectual, spiritual, emotional, physical and aesthetic qualities. The modern curriculum combines the Ignatian philosophy with the best of pedagogical practices.
Personal excellence is encouraged by offering each student a diverse and challenging curriculum delivered by professional, enthusiastic and caring educators.
Years Seven and Eight (Stage 4)
Students follow a common curriculum comprising Religious Studies, English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Languages (French or Italian), Technology, Visual Arts, Music and Personal Development, Health and Physical Education.
Years Nine and Ten (Stage 5)
Students follow a core curriculum which comprises Religious Studies, English, Mathematics, Science, Australian History, Australian Geography, Civics and Citizenship and Personal Development, Health and Physical Education. Additional studies reflecting the students’ abilities and interests are chosen from Commerce, Dance, Design and Technology, Drama, Geography, History, Italian, Music, Photography and Digital Media, Physical Activity and Sports Studies, Textiles Technology, Food Technology and Visual Arts.
Years Eleven and Twelve (Stage 6)
All students must undertake courses in Studies of Religion and English.
Additional studies offered at St Vincent’s College are:
English Advanced (2U), English Standard (2U), English Extension 1 (1U), English Extension 2, General Mathematics (2U), Mathematics (2U), Mathematics Extension 1 (1U), Physics (2U), Chemistry (2U), Biology (2U), Design & Technology (2U), Food Technology (2U), Economics, Textiles Technology (2U), Earth & Environmental Science (2U), Society & Culture (2U), Studies of Religion (1U), Studies of Religion (2U), Ancient History (2U), Modern History (2U), Geography (2U), Business Studies (2U), Legal Studies (2U), French Continuers (2U), Drama (2U), Dance (2U), PDHPE (2U), Community and Family Studies (2U), Visual Arts (2U), Music Course 1 (2U), Music Course 2 (2U), TAFE Delivered VET courses (2U), Hospitality Curriculum Framework TAFE delivered (2U)
Year Twelve
Additional extension courses are offered to Year 12 students including:
Mathematics Extension 2 (1U), English Extension 2 (1U), History Extension (1U), French Extension (1U) and Music Extension (1U).
Learning Framework
A St Vincent’s College graduate is a courageous woman of action empowered to be independent in thought, compassionate in attitude and confident to act.
Learning Support
At St Vincent’s College we recognise that each child is unique and each child has different gifts, abilities, interests and styles of learning. Academic Care is central in the education of the girls at St Vincent’s and involves enhancing student learning, well-being and resilience through academic processes and practices which are sympathetic to student needs. The Diverse Learning Team works in collaboration with staff across the College to ensure the whole range of student abilities and needs is catered for so that each girl has the opportunity to achieve her personal best.
As St Vincent's College is not academically selective we are ready and able to support students requiring extension or extra support in all or some of their subjects.
St Vincent’s College offers students from Year 7 to 12 the opportunity to complete their homework and study in a supervised environment at the College. The Extended Day study time will be held in the library with a teacher. There are two distinct sessions for girls to attend. The first being 3:45pm to 6:00pm and the second is 7:00pm to 8:00pm. Students can attend the first session only and be collected at 6:00pm. Alternatively, students can stay until 8:00pm and share a meal (free of charge) in the Dining Room with the supervising teacher.
Contact the Director of Teaching and Learning:
Mrs Jasmin Mano
English
The aim of English at St Vincent’s College is to inspire a life-long love of reading, writing and communicating in our shared culture as engaged citizens.
English courses are based on the principle that growth in language use is essential for intellectual, social and emotional development
At St Vincent’s, knowledge, understanding, skills, values and attitudes acquired in English are central to developing confident communicators, critical and imaginative thinkers, life-long learners and informed, active participants in Australian society. The study of English supports the development and expression of a system of personal values, based on students’ understanding of moral and ethical matters, and gives expression to their hopes and ideals.
Our teaching practice ensures students can become confident, articulate and independent learners with a strong awareness of their own potential. Our English teachers aim to foster a love of literature in the girls while drawing out personal responses and expressions of individual creativity. A number of our teachers are highly experienced HSC markers.
We use a variety of assessment tools including self-assessment, peer assessment and personal goal setting. Every day we work on inspiring the girls to be critical thinkers, to have a disciplined approach to study and to develop a life-long love of learning, reading, writing and communicating with confidence and clarity.
Years 7 - 10 (Stages 4 and 5)
In Years 7-10 the role of the teacher varies across those of initiator, facilitator, model, instructor and guide.
Our overall aim is to enable students to use, understand, experience, reflect on and enjoy the English language. We want students at St Vincent’s to be able to shape meaning in ways that are imaginative, interpretive, critical and powerful – always within a Catholic Christian framework.
We study older as well as contemporary texts while the range includes Indigenous and Asian literature and includes multi-media. As the students analyse writing, our teachers put emphasis on individual and personal responses to encourage the girls to become thoughtful and empathic.
In all cases extension work is provided for the more able and more structured work is given where appropriate.
Not surprisingly, throughout the English Department, we use technology as a learning aid to help students produce work that is more effective and more polished.
The English Department is active in offering a range of enrichment activities.
- We invite published authors to speak to and work with students.
- We hold an annual public speaking competition.
- We run annual creative writing and poetry competitions.
- We encourage girls to enter relevant external competitions, including ICAS competitions
Years 11 - 12 (Stage 6)
In Years 11 and 12 all students study either the Standard 2 Unit course or the Advanced 2 Unit Course.
We offer English Extension Courses to students who wish to study three units of English in their Preliminary year and three or four units in their HSC year. Our experienced English teachers carefully provide thoughtful guidance to the students when they are making decisions about the course that best suits their interests and abilities.
In all our English programs, our aim always is to:
- enable students to speak and listen effectively,
- read and view texts with a critical appreciation, and
- write analytically and clearly.
The English Department is comprised of:
- Ms Monica Jarman - Head of Department
- Ms Leigh Bedbrook
- Ms Siobhan Devaney
- Ms Alexandra Hunter
- Ms Sue Kennedy
- Ms Helen Marshall - Career Adviser
- Ms Anita Playoust
- Ms Josie Rune
Contact the English Department:
Ms Monica Jarman
Mathematics
Following the tradition of the Sisters of Charity, students graduating from St Vincent's College are highly confident, skilled and independent students of Mathematics, ready to use the knowledge and problem solving skills acquired through its study to serve their families and community in hope, justice and generosity.
Two stated aims form part of this vision:
Expectation of Excellence: That all students have the opportunity to test themselves at the highest level at which they are capable and to gain the highest results possible.
Positive Attitudes: That all students have a positive overall attitude towards their Mathematics by experiencing both challenge and success in their learning and assessment.
Access for All Students to Experience Success
The Mathematics Department is focused upon the needs of each individual student. We understand that each girl is on her own journey in the learning of Mathematics. We provide learning opportunities tailored to suit the particular point in that journey that she has reached. These include: revision activities that consolidate learning already achieved; new learning goals set to allow success in the next step of the journey and access to challenges that provide points of interest and enrichment along the way.
The most important experiences students have with learning mathematics are with their mathematics teacher. Mathematics teachers at St Vincent’s College have as their primary goal, the care for each individual student. We are skilled and experienced in structuring lessons so that all students are engaged, experience success and are given opportunities to extend themselves. Our Maths teachers go the extra mile for their students: voluntarily helping outside normal class times, communicating with parents to keep them informed of progress and guiding the girls in how to become successful independent students of Mathematics.
Maths Help and Other Support
At some point in their learning in Mathematics, students will need some extra help. Whether it is merely a tricky question from homework or a need to catch up after being absent, “Maths Help” is the place to get the assistance needed. Every lunch time, one of the Mathematics teachers is in Room A22 to help whoever comes. On Thursdays, senior students are also present as part of the SRC Mentoring program.
Some students need more focused support and this is provided in conjunction with the Diverse Learning department. Support staff may assist students in class or some small groups may be withdrawn to provide a numeracy course targeting students’ needs.
The Thinking Club and Other Enrichment
Each week, The Thinking Club provides an opportunity for students interested in learning new ways to think and solve problems. Here, they discover that solving problems is a social activity, that with the support of their peers they can rise to the challenge presented by puzzles and logic problems. They learn that through persistence, systematic thinking and problem solving strategies, they can solve problems they at first thought were beyond them.
The Gifted and Talented Coordinator, Ms Cheryl McArthur, runs programs to identify and satisfy the needs of gifted students. In junior years, students with gifts and talents in several subject areas are offered withdrawal programs and opportunities for across-curriculum learning. In addition, Year 9 and 10 students with particular interest or abilities in Mathematics partake in a Mathematics Enrichment Class. In this class, students explore mathematical concepts outside the main curriculum.
Extension and Acceleration
Extension is offered in all classes, where teachers offer extra learning to any student who are ready. These activities extend the student beyond the program set for the class but not in a way that takes them out of step with future lessons. The extension provides deeper understanding of a concept, or further and more complex applications. In Stage 5, this may involve some students in the 5.2 stream being given 5.3 content, and students in the 5.3 stream being given a taste of some concepts that prepares them for Stage 6 courses.
Acceleration is only offered to students who will benefit from moving ahead of their cohort in order to start a future stage a year earlier than normal. Currently, Year 9 students identified as suitable are grouped in a class that covers both years of the Stage 5.3 course in one year. Hence they will be ready to start the HSC Preliminary course when in Year 10 and can complete the HSC Mathematics course in Year 11. This allows them to focus on the rest of their HSC program when in Year 12, including on Mathematics Extension 1 and 2.
Independent Mathematics Students
Students have access to all levels of Mathematics as they complete their final years at St Vincent’s College, from Mathematics Life Skills to Mathematics Extension 2. More importantly, at whatever level, all students are taught how to be independent students of Mathematics. This is achieved in three ways:
- development of positive attitudes through enjoyable activities, experience with challenge and achievement of success
- development of general learning skills such as questioning, organisation, effective revision and exam techniques, and
- development of self-reflection, allowing students to reflect on their achievement, set goals and become confident in their ability to learn any new mathematics they desire.
An example of how we achieve this is the Reflection tasks that students complete after each formal assessment task in junior years. Based on the Ignatian pedagogical technique of reflection on experience and action taking, these tasks teach junior students how to reflect on their achievements and how to identify areas of strength and areas that require improvement. More importantly, they then give students concrete options for what actions to take to work towards improvement.
As they develop these independent learning skills through the junior years, students become confident in their ability to overcome challenges as they are met. They leave the College confident in the knowledge that, even if faced with a problem that they haven’t seen before, they have the skills and persistence required to learn the desired mathematics and solve the problem successfully.
The Mathematics Department is comprised of:
- Mr Nicholas Garben - Head of Department
- Ms Jane Ashcroft
- Mr Robert Bielinko
- Ms Annemaree Butter
- Ms Paula Chan
- Ms Tali Melman
- Ms Maryanne O'Donoghue - Boarding Coordinator
- Ms Jacqueline Robins
- Ms Jo Tardo - Head of Houses
Contact the Mathematics Department:
Mr Nicholas Garben
Science
Fostering the development of strong female scientists at school is essential to tackle the many challenges that our society faces. Genetic engineering, fuel and water shortages and climate change are amongst the many scientific issues that confront us daily in the media. These require a sound understanding of Science to better inform our evidence-based decisions.
Science also instills a sense of intrigue and triggers curiosity amongst many students. It is a fascinating, fast moving area. Science can answer many questions. Why do I see lightning before I hear thunder? What is there on the surface of Mars? What is the Universe made of? How hot will the Greenhouse world be?
Science for Years 7 to 10
Science is a mandatory subject in Years 7 to 10, with students undertaking the study of a range of meaningful and relevant modules created specifically to interest our students. In Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8) students develop their laboratory skills, and gain a solid grounding in the Living, Chemical and Physical World. These areas are developed in Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10) with further exploration of the impacts of Science in the fields of disease, genetics and space research
Science for Years 11 and 12
The Stage 6 Science courses offered by the College include Biology, Chemistry, Earth & Environmental Science and Physics. Students may choose to study up to three of these courses for the Higher School Certificate
Co-curricular Opportunities
Students also have much opportunity to engage in Science outside of the curriculum. Application is encouraged for Immersion programs such as The National Youth Science Forum and ‘Science Experience’ workshops. Students can qualify for the University of Sydney Gifted and Talented Program. The ICAS Science and the National Titration Competitions are popular annual activities in which students can excel
Real World Experiences and Technology
At St Vincent’s College, students are offered a diverse range of scientific experiences within the classroom and in the field. They investigate explanations for the biological, physical and chemical world. Opportunities are provided to think critically and problem solve individually and in teams. Students use data probes, analyse data, plan investigations and draw valid conclusions. Opportunities, using oral and written methods as well as technology, are given to communicate their acquired knowledge.
Our central city location places stimulating learning venues within easy reach such as the Observatory, Australian and Maritime Museums, Sydney and New South Wales Universities and Sydney Harbour.
The Science Department is comprised of:
- Dr Chris Reynolds - Head of Department
- Ms Vanessa Brown
- Ms Kate Buddle
- Mr Robert Graham - DPSC
- Ms Edelle McCrudden
- Ms Penny Radford - Head of O'Brien House
- Ms Jacqueline Robins
- Ms Sophie Robson
- Ms Gemma Thompson
- Mr Yukai Wang - Science Lab Tech
- Contact the Science Department:
Dr Chris Reynolds
Religious Studies
Our College is Catholic and the College community is committed to the gospel values of Jesus and charism of Mary Aikenhead Ministries. Knowledge of the world illumined by the light of faith is a basic principle of our College philosophy, as the motto states 'Scientia cum Religione' (Religion and Knowledge united).
Religious Studies strives to relate all learning to the Gospel of Jesus so that students develop sensitivity to each other, expressed in service and social justice. The worth and dignity of each person are recognised in the responsibility each has to one another.
The Religious Studies Department seeks to mentor students in their faith, providing opportunities for knowledge about the Christian story within the context of the Catholic tradition and the Religious Sisters of Charity.
Curriculum
Years 7-10
Religious Education programs follow the rationale, aims, objectives and outcomes of the Sydney Archdiocese Religious Education curriculum. Essentially students build on their previous religious education and realise the expectations of what being a follower of Jesus Christ entails. Ignatian Pedagogy underpins all classroom learning activities and assessments. Students complete a range of common assessment tasks and experience various methods of prayer but in particular prayer steeped in the tradition of St Ignatius of Loyola.
Years 11-12
In Years 11 and 12 students undertake the Studies of Religion [1 and 2 Unit] Higher School Certificate course as mandated by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA).
The Preliminary Course in Year 11 is a foundational study of World Religions, Religion in Australian Society pre 1945 and Religions of Ancient Origin.
The Higher School Certificate Course in Year 12 is a consolidation and extension of the Preliminary course. Students study specific aspects of Religious Traditions, Religion in Australia post 1945, Religion and Peace, Religion and Non-Religion.
IGNATIAN PEDAGOGY
Ignatian pedagogy underpins every aspect of learning at the College. Context, Experience, Reflection and Action, guide all lessons, programs, excursions and prayer at the College. In the tradition of St Ignatius we aspire to find God in all things and reflect on all experiences in light of this.
The Religious Studies Department is comprised of:
- Ms Tina De Souza - Head of Department
- Mr Bob Anderson
- Mr Mark Bradley
- Ms Cath Davies
- Mrs Jo Kenderes
- Ms Simone Lock
- Mr Jasmin Mano
- Mrs Jenny McCarthy
- Ms Nicole Rizk
- Mr Nicholas Schroeder
- Mr Robert Weaver
Contact the Religious Studies Department:
Ms Tina De Souza
HSIE
This key learning area encompasses the subjects History, Geography, Commerce, Ancient History, Business Studies, Economics, Legal Studies, Modern History and Society and Culture across Years 7–12.
Geography
This is one subject that spans Years 7–12. It builds on students’ prior learning and experience to enable them to explain patterns, evaluate consequences and contribute to the management of environments. As a mandatory study in Years 7-10, students love the emphasis on field and practical work, involving them in collaborative learning, research in texts, online and daily newspapers and magazines. The outcomes of their learning is presented using multimedia as well as more traditional written texts.
History
Similarly, the study of history takes place from Year 7-12. It involves a process of inquiry which develops the skills of research, analysis, evaluation and synthesis and which will enable them to be independent learners for the rest of their lives.
Both Elective GEOGRAPHY and HISTORY (Year 9 and 10) are current areas of study that are very popular at St Vincent’s College.
Commerce
Is an elective subject for study in Years 9-10 which introduces students to the world of commerce, business, law, employment and industrial relations. Students appreciate the opportunities it provides to consider real-life applications for their learning. A highlight is their Market Day held at the end of their studies.
Stage 6 HSIE Electives
In Stage 6 the HSIE Department provides a choice of 8 electives:
Ancient History (2 Unit)
The Preliminary Ancient History course begins by offering students the chance to examine the methods used by Historians and Archaeologists to investigate the past, and consider the impact of Science on these disciplines and the ethical issues which arise. Case Studies then include Ancient Human Remains, The Celts in Europe, Boudicca: Resistance to Roman Rule and Roman Britain. Students also undertake their own Historical Investigation. The Ancient History HSC course has a core study which is an investigation of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Students then study Ancient Societies such as the Ancient Society of Sparta, the Personality of Agrippina the Younger and The Historical Period of the Augustan Age.
Business Studies (2 Unit)
This course is aimed at students who will be seeking a career in the business world, whether it is after completing the HSC or further tertiary studies. The course looks into the activities of business and how a business is organised. HSC topics include: Operations, Marketing, Human Resources and Finance. A credit for the subject is granted in some TAFE courses and it is a useful introduction to Business or Commerce at University.
Economics (2 Unit)
This is an interesting and challenging course and one that gives valuable information to students about current economic problems and possible solutions. This is particularly pertinent in view of the fact that all students will soon be of voting age and will be asked to make a critical assessment of present government policies. Thus this subject is relevant to all students wishing to study economics, journalism, accountancy or business degrees at College and Universities.
Extension History (1 Unit)
At the end of Year 11 students are given the opportunity to undertake a further unit of History called History Extension. These students undertake a major historical Project into a topic of their own choosing. They also study the nature of History and how and why interpretations change over time.
Geography (2 Unit)
Geography is a popular elective for students in Years 11-12. At this level students are engaged in contemporary social, physical and political global issues which prepares them to pursue tertiary studies in a wide range of disciplines. Areas of study include Urban Places, Ecosystems at Risk and People and Economic Activity. In each year compulsory geographical fieldwork takes place.
Legal Studies (2 Unit)
This course is designed to assist students to understand the way the legal system works; to understand how the law operates to resolve conflicts and regulate social behaviour; and to appreciate the role of the law in every aspect of our lives. These skills will form an excellent foundation preparing students for University or College courses in law, commerce, journalism, real estate, social work, criminology, information technology or arts.
Modern History (2 Unit)
The Preliminary Modern History Course has at least two case studies which may include: the Decline and Fall of the Romanov Dynasty in Russia, Bismarck and Unification of the German States and Meiji Japan. The core study is the World at the Beginning of the Twentieth Century. Students also undertake their own Historical Investigation. The Modern History HSC Course has a core study which is a source-based study of World War I with special focus on the War on the Western Front and The Home Fronts of Britain and Germany. Modern History Students currently study Germany 1918-1939, Leni Riefenstahl and the Conflict in the Pacific 1937-1951 but these topics may vary from year to year.
Society and Culture (2 Unit)
The central concern of this subject is the interaction of persons, societies, cultures, environments and time. Society and Culture draws on cross-disciplinary concepts and social research methodologies from anthropology, communication, cultural studies, media studies, philosophy, psychology, social ecology and sociology. This subject has direct relevance to the immediate needs of students and to their future lives by enabling students to develop understanding of: themselves, their own society and culture and, the societies and cultures of others. In the HSC, Society and Culture all students complete a Personal Interest Project which is 40% of the final HSC mark.
Each of our subjects titles indicate the broad area of study yet each has its own specialities which appeal to students for their relevance to the contemporary and dynamic society in which they live. Therefore, it is not uncommon that a student may study a variety of our subjects consecutively.
The St Vincent’s HSIE teachers are passionate about their discipline. They relish the opportunities to engage the students in new and diverse teaching and learning practices which excite and challenge them to gain maximum benefit and enjoyment from these subjects.
The HSIE Department is comprised of:
- Ms Lynne Hamilton - Head of Department
- Ms Mary Crotty
- Ms Maria Geracitano
- Mr Joseph Hekeik - Assistant HOD
- Mr Michael Latham
- Ms Simone Lock
- Mr James Mann
- Ms Jenny McCarthy
- Ms Caroline McKenna
- Ms Nicole Rizk
- Mr Nicholas Schroeder
- Mr David Woolbank
Contact the HSIE Department:
Ms Lynne Hamilton
Technological and Applied Studies (TAS)
Promoting creativity and quality in design
St Vincent's College in accepting a special responsibility for the education of girls has committed itself to the holistic education of women. Consistent with this understanding is the requirement to provide girls with opportunities to develop their confidence and competencies in the KLA of Technological and Applied Studies. Technology is recognised as a significant component of modern western society and it is an essential part of a quality education for girls to enable them to fulfil their potential and participate fully in society.
The fundamental notion of meeting our needs and the needs of other is seen to be a motivation for creativity and quality in design processes. It is through this reflective awareness of our own needs and a respectful openness to the needs of others that the Department addresses the Christian values of the College.
Within the curriculum Design and Technology offers students experience of aspects of contemporary design practice. Programming strives to offer authentic design situations that require informed and realistic solutions. Each student is encouraged to reach her full potential in a safe but challenging environment. The Department has a commitment to the use of digital and graphic technologies in the communication of design ideas and solutions.
Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) Courses at St Vincent’s College:
- Stage 4 - Mandatory Technology to all students in Years 7 and 8
- Stage 5 - Design and Technology, Textiles Technology and Food Technology elective courses are offered in Years 9 and 10
- Stage 6 - Design and Technology and Textiles Technology are offered in Years 11 and 12.
The Visual Arts, Technology and Design Department is comprised of:
- Mr Graeme Colman - Head of Department
- Ms Kaliopi Aldridge
- Ms Sana Issa
- Ms Priscilla Laliotis - TAS
- Ms Emma Palmer
- Ms Juliana Roque - Food Tech
- Ms Tanya Schneider
- Mr Steven Taylor
Contact the Visual Arts, Technology and Design Department:
Mr Graeme Colman
Languages
Language learning has always been a valued endeavor at St Vincent’s College, not only by the school, but by students and parents
The growing number of language offerings for students electing to study languages at the College is testament to this.
At St Vincent's College we offer studies in French and Italian. In addition, students wishing to study a language not taught at the college can apply to the Open High School and, if successful, will be supervised by our Languages Staff. Students undertake a mandatory 100 hours of studies in languages in Stage 4 (Year 8).
In Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10) currently French and Italian are the elective courses offered from which students can choose from to further nurture their linguistic interests. Many students chose to continue their language studies during their senior years at St Vincent's College. French and Italian are currently offered as preliminary, HSC continuers courses.
- French K-10 Syllabus
- Italian K-10 Syllabus
- French Continuers Stage 6 Syllabus
- Italian Continuers Stage 6 Syllabus
Teaching and Learning
The teaching of languages focuses on the development of four macro skills: Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. At St Vincent's, we endeavour to engage students in active language learning. We seek to create a dynamic classroom environment in which all student contributions and achievements are valued and celebrated. We take a communicative approach to language learning; from the outset, girls are encouraged to use the target language in realistic spoken and written contexts.
At St Vincent's College we are lucky to have a multitude of language-learning resources available to staff and Students. Technology is an integral part of teaching and learning at the College, and the languages classroom environment is enriched by the use of a range of digital media. Students of languages across all years are exposed to interactive computer programs and online activities, developing a variety of authentic learning strategies and using the language in realistic scenarios.
All students of languages are encouraged and supported to reach their full potential. We endeavour to extend gifted linguists and those with significant prior knowledge of the languages offered by providing extension materials, including independent project-based use of technology.
Students at St Vincent's College also have the opportunity to engage in language learning across the curriculum and becoming “leaders” in Languages. For example, students in years 9 to 11 have the opportunity to become Language Ambassadors, and promote the importance of multi-lingualism as global citizens.
Why study languages?
While studying French or Italian at St Vincent's College not only do you learn to communicate in a foreign language, but you can also learn how languages work. Learning a language opens the path towards new ways of thinking and gives you different insights into your own culture and language. By speaking another language you may even discover new sides of your personality!
At St Vincent's College, we hope to inspire lifelong learners with a passion for languages. Many students continue their language studies beyond their school years, as many universities are offering an increasing number of courses requiring one year's overseas study in a foreign language. Language skills are a valuable asset in many career paths.
Events
Language Study Tours
A highlight for many students is a trip to the country of their studied language. St Vincent's College runs a study tour to France and Italy every second year, open to students in Years 9 to 11.
Eurovinnies
A highlight for students is the annual Eurovinnies song and video competition. Language Students from years 7 to 11 choreograph routines, learn the words and film a pop song in their language of study. The competition is fierce and everyone is keen to be amongst the nominees for a range of categories from “Best Lip-Synching” to “Best Overall Video”.
Language Day
The Languages Day for Year 8 students, captures the enthusiasm and excitements of the whole college community, especially when the waffles, crepes and gelato is offered at lunch time, raising money for The School of St Jude’s in Tanzania. Students are also involved in an array of cultural and linguistic activities, such as cooking, trivia, cultural games and dancing.
Weblinks & Apps - online resources
The internet brings authentic Language Learning to your fingertips - read the headlines in French or look up the weather in Rome! It is also a great tool for independent study. Many websites offer self-correcting interactive activities. We have used the following websites in class and encourage students to practice and explore at home:
- www.languagesonline.org.uk: Click on the specific language to the left of the screen
- www.education.vic.gov.au/languagesonline/ Great resource for Year 7-10 for building initial vocabulary and grammar
- www.quia.com/shared: Over 2000 exercises for all languages = try one a day!
- www.kerboodle.com: A comprehensive senior languages online learning resource that we currently use for senior classes in German and French. You are able to trial this for 30 days free.
- www.languageperfect.com: An amazing vocabulary learning tool that hooks students into expanding their vocabulary skills in not only their language of study but all available languages on offer. Well worth a look.
Apps:
- duolingo
- babbel
The Languages Department is comprised of:
- Ms Maria Manitta - Head of Department - Acting
- Ms Joanne Anderson
- Ms Leigh Bedbrook
- Ms Agatha Khachigian
- Ms Audrey Roby
Contact the Languages Department:
Ms Maria Manitta
PDHPE
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) at St Vincent’s College is concerned with the development of the whole person and to provide all girls with the skills and knowledge to deal with the myriad of challenges faced by young people in a rapidly changing society. PDHPE aims to assist students to make informed decisions about their lifestyles, taking into account the values of the family, culture and religion to which they may belong.
Our VIsion
We have a strong focus on the development of self-confidence, resilience, physical well-being, as well as social, physical and decision-making and skills. In practical lessons there is a strong emphasis on enjoyment and embedding positive attitudes towards sport and lifelong physical activity.
Girls at St Vincent’s are encouraged to assume increasing responsibility for managing their own lifestyles and achieving optimum health. The PDHPE Programs and units are designed to cater to the differing needs and abilities of the students. Each girl is encouraged to develop genuine individuality, whilst being sensitive to the rights of others. Gospel qualities of unselfishness, tolerance, compassion, politeness, courtesy, responsibility, sensitivity, respect and consideration for the rights, needs and feelings of others are fostered and encouraged at all times.
The PDHPE Faculty provides the students of St Vincent's College a program of study from year seven to year twelve. Subject currently offered are:
Year 7-10 Personal Development, Health and Physical Education
At St. Vincent’s the Year 7-10 PDHPE course is part of the students' mandatory program of study. All students participate in both theory and practical lessons each week. This subject encourages each student to strive for, achieve and maintain the optimum level of physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being. PDHPE develops the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to understand, value and lead healthy and fulfilling lifestyles. The PDHPE Faculty’s objective is to work collaboratively with colleagues, students and their parents to produce independent young women, capable of contributing positively to our society with a thorough knowledge and skills to improve and maintain their own and their community’s health.
The current program of study for Years 7-10 PDHPE has been developed from the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), Personal development, health and physical education Years 7-10 syllabus as well as the Catholic Education Commission document Towards Wholeness. The NSW PDHPE Years 7-10 Syllabus content is divided into four strands.
Strand 1: Self and Relationships
Strand 2: Movement Skill and Performance
Strand 3: Individual and Community Health
Strand4: Lifelong Physical Activity
Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS)
Physical Activity and Sports Studies is an elective subject option open to girls in Years 9 and 10. PASS aims to provide students at St Vincent’s with opportunities to develop their movement skills and acquire new ones in a range of challenging activities different to those offered in the mainstream PDHPE course. PASS acknowledges the important role that physical activity and sport plays in society, and through participation in the subject, girls develop a broad understanding of the multifaceted nature of this influence. The students learn to appreciate the traditions and special characteristics associated with various physical activities and are exposed to a range of valuable skills in organisation, enterprise, leadership and communication.
Students who select the PASS course complete a programme of study that covers three broad areas of study in Foundations of Physical Activity, Physical Activity and Sport in Society and Enhancing Participation and Performance.
2 Unit Personal Development, Health and Physical Education
Two Unit Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) is a course that provides for the intellectual, social, emotional, physical and spiritual development of students. PDHPE students learn about promoting and maintaining active, healthy lifestyles and the impacts of a range of determinants on an individual’s health status. The subject also focuses on social and scientific understandings of sport and human movement leading to an enhanced appreciation of the importance of the health and physical activity. The syllabus also contains strong links to principles of social justice and acknowledgement of the diversity that exists in Australian society
This subject is suited to those students in Year 11 and 12 who have an active interest in PDHPE Girls who take this course may be considering pursuing further education in the areas of recreational, paramedical, movement and health sciences or have an interest in a rapidly expanding range of related career opportunities.
2 Unit Community and Family Studies
Two Unit Community and Family Studies (CAFS) is a course that aims to develop an ability to manage resources and the skills needed to take action to support individuals, groups, families and communities in modern Australian society. Through involvement in the subject, girls develop an understanding and appreciation of the complexity of human interactions and the range of influences that impact upon responsible decision-making. CAFS is an interdisciplinary course drawing upon selected components of family studies, sociology and psychology. There is also a strong focus on communication and research skills with students in HSC being required to complete an individual research project (IRP). CAFS encourages students to become proactive individuals within society who have the knowledge and skills to adapt to a range of roles and responsibilities.
This subject is suited to those students in Years 11 and 12 who have an interest in a range of issues relating to the interactions of individual and groups in society. Girls who take this course may be considering pursuing further education in the areas of sociology, psychology, resource management, education, and childcare or careers in social work or research related fields.
The PDHPE Department is comprised of:
- Ms Sheenagh Doran - Head of Department
- Mr Mark Bradley
- Ms Natalie Fletcher
- Ms Jacinta Jacobs
- Ms May Mangano
- Ms Diane Williams
- Ms Elizabeth Young
Contact the PDHPE Department:
Ms Sheenagh Doran
Performing Arts
The Performing Arts at St Vincent’s College, including Dance, Drama and Music, are offered as classroom and co-curricular subjects. The College offers opportunities for students to participate in a number of Ensembles such as Choir, Orchestra, Rock Band, the Wind Ensemble, Dance Ensembles, Theatre Sports and the Shakespeare Carnival as well as the College Production.
Performing Arts students attend excursions and incursions such as Encore, Meet the Music, Open Rehearsal at the Opera House, Onstage and Callback.
Recent highlights include productions of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Venetian Twins, God a Play, Dusty, The Grinch, Narnia and Alice in Wonderland. Students perform at college community events such as Godparents and Grandparents Day, Spring Fair and Carols by Candlelight, as well as Performing Arts events such as Dance Night, the Wine and Cheese Music Night, Design Create Perform, the Performing Arts Awards Night, Snippets Film Festival, Musical Soirées and the Year 12 Drama Night.
Performing Arts students at the College have been nominated to perform at prestigious state-wide event such as Callback and Onstage.
The Performing Arts curriculum includes:
- Music stage 4
- Music stage 5
- Music stage 6
- Drama stage 5
- Drama stage 6
- Dance stage 5
- Dance stage 6
The Performing Arts Department is comprised of:
- Ms Catherine Johnson - Head of Department
- Ms Alison Coates
- Ms Julianna Ormiston
- Ms Belinda Peoples
- Ms Alana Santi
- Mr Robert Weaver
Contact the Performing Arts Department:
Ms Catherine Johnson
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Visual Arts
At St Vincent's College Visual Arts is considered as an academic discipline contributing to the complete education of the young person. The study of Visual Arts provides young women from urban and country backgrounds with opportunities to develop as confident, reflective and independent individuals.
Programming in the Visual Arts Department situates the rationale, aims, objectives and outcomes of the NSW Board of Studies Visual Arts Syllabuses within the particular Christian values expressed in the College’s Mission Statement. The pedagogical cycle of the Ignatian spirituality that underpins the Catholic ethos of the College presents us with a model of learning that moves through experience, reflection and action in a practice of education that is complementary to the aims of the syllabuses.
Art as a disciplined mode of learning is concerned with matters of quality, value and significance. Imaginative interpretations of the world and reasoned critical responses made by teachers and students foster a learning environment that is based on respect for others' points of view, shared experiences, and the individual's unique preferences. In this way the study of Visual Arts promotes a reflective sense of the self and an awareness of action underpinned by justice.
Visual Arts Courses at St Vincent’s College:
- Stage 4 - Mandatory Visual Arts is taught to all students in Years 7 and 8
- Stage 5 - Elective Visual Arts and Photographic and Digital Media are offered to students in Years 9 and 10
- Stage 6 - Visual Arts is offered to students in Years 11 and 12
All courses are structured around the teaching of conventions and techniques of making art and the exploration of materials in relation to topics and concepts that engage the student’s imagination. This firm grounding supports increasingly independent and skilful explorations of the power and pleasure of representation. Students are offered opportunities to experience the communication of ideas through the exhibition of their work. The practices of art criticism and art history assume increasing significance as students’ progress through Visual Arts courses. Their understanding of the values and beliefs which shape significance and meaning in artworks and art practice is supported by systematic teaching in the written forms through which knowledge and ideas about art are communicated.
The Visual Arts Department offers students skills and experiences in a range of forms including painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, photography, digital media and animation. The Visual Arts Department is privileged in the size of our rooms which allow for separate studio space for senior students and in our proximity to Sydney’s major art galleries.
The Visual Arts, Technology and Design Department is comprised of:
- Mr Graeme Colman - Head of Department
- Ms Kaliope Aldridge
- Ms Sana Issa
- Ms Priscilla Laliotis - TAS
- Ms Emma Palmer
- Ms Juliana Roque - Food Tech
- Ms Tanya Schneider
- Mr Steven Taylor
Contact the Visual Arts, Technology and Design Department:
Mr Graeme Colman
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