Our Teaching Philosophy
In Years 3 to 6, we develop globally competent students with a strong moral compass and desire to look after their environment – now and in the future.
We view learning in and beyond the classroom as equally important. Our students enjoy a rich tapestry of incursions, excursions, community service opportunities and camps to develop their collaboration, problem-solving, risk-taking, self-regulation and organisational skills.
Our experienced teaching staff embrace Kath Murdoch’s Inquiry-Based Learning Model, an educational approach that focuses on fostering students’ curiosity, critical thinking and active engagement in the learning process. The model encourages students to ask questions, investigate topics of interest and construct their own understanding of concepts.
Kath Murdoch’s Inquiry-Based Learning Model promotes a student-centred approach, where students take ownership of their education, develop a love for learning and acquire skills that extend beyond the classroom.
Our Years 3 to 6 students regularly undertake inquiry projects that encourage them to ask questions and delve deeper. They focus on:
- Listening skills
- Asking questions
- Summarising – explaining by telling how and why
- Helping others – by responding to their needs or doing things for themselves
- Finding out what others think – asking, listening and making sense of group members’ ideas
- Sharing knowledge and reasoning
- Being concise – communicating thinking
- Allowing everyone to contribute – sharing, listening and valuing all contributions
- Finding out if the group is ready to make a decision
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St Mary’s is all about girls discovering their best. We want our students to be engrossed in the exploration of ideas, to be self-motivated and self-directed, to delight in trying something new and to contribute positively to the community.