An intensive three-day immersion program in the Diocese of Broken Bay has provided National and State education leaders the opportunity to see first-hand, innovative developments in student teaching and learning.
Hosted by Catholic Schools Broken Bay, the program included visits to classrooms in schools on the Northern Beaches, North Shore and the Central Coast by the National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC), Catholic Schools New South Wales (CSNSW), as well as Directors of Schools outside the Diocese of Broken Bay.
“We had the very welcome opportunity to see CSBB’s vision for an authentic Catholic education, forged through purposeful strategic goals,” Chief Executive Officer of CSNSW, Dallas McInnerney said.
“These occasions allow colleagues in the mission of Catholic education across the state to share perspectives in areas such as professional development and religious instruction. We left Broken Bay with many new ideas and hope for the future.”
Director of CSBB, Danny Casey, outlined to the group the pedagogical framework and practices informed by teacher knowledge which is driving explicit teaching, questioning and communicating and assessing, monitoring and providing feedback.
“Delivering enhanced student outcomes occurs in the classroom, not the board room,” Danny Casey said.
“Front line leaders and their staff are critical to the design and delivery of our goals. Student impact must be at the centre of decision making with a relentless focus on learning.
“Through our collaborative coaching framework, we aim to improve every student’s learning by building the capacity of the teacher. This committed leadership, shared vision and understanding, and data informed initiatives are driving our progress.”
NCEC Executive Director, Jacinta Collins, CSNSW Board members and Directors of Schools from the Dioceses of Lismore, Parramatta, Wilcannia Forbes, Wagga Wagga, Maitland-Newcastle, Bathurst, Wollongong and Armidale also experienced the teaching and learning presentations.
“A highlight for me was the classroom observation of the K-2 Religious Education program,” Dallas McInerney said.
“It was very affirming to witness children engage in the lesson knowing this is a strategic focus of Bishop Anthony Randazzo and CSBB.”
According to Danny Casey, the Learning Improvement Program has not only ensured a systematic delivery of Curriculum, strengthened a Catholic Culture, and encouraged teacher expertise and leadership, It has enhanced relationships between Parish, School and community.
“We have made wonderful progress in the past four years where we have aimed to deliver authentic professional Catholic education, delivered with care and compassion in our 45 schools.” Danny Casey said.
“We have made wonderful progress in the past four years where we have aimed to deliver authentic professional Catholic education, delivered with care and compassion in our 45 schools.” Danny Casey said.
“Our purpose, to inspire hearts and minds to know Christ, to love learning and encourage our students to be the best they can be, has resonated with staff, parents and caregivers
“Our vision is empowering. There is a specific purpose and we know exactly where we are going. It is an exciting time,” he said.