Welcome to St Columba's School Ballarat

Engaging

Inspiring

Empowering

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Literacy & Numeracy

How We Teach and Support Learning

At our school, we are committed to giving every student the best possible foundation for lifelong learning. Our teaching is shaped by educational research, and we use Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI) to ensure that children are taught clearly, systematically and with purpose. This approach means that students know exactly what they are learning, why it is important, and how to be successful.

A Knowledge-Rich Curriculum

We believe that knowledge builds on knowledge. Our curriculum is carefully designed so that students gain the foundational facts, skills and concepts they need in the early years, and then deepen and extend this knowledge as they move through school. Over time, they learn to make meaningful connections between ideas, and to apply their understanding in creative and practical ways.

We describe this as learning in three stages:

  • Surface Learning: Building strong foundations in essential knowledge and skills.

  • Deep Learning: Making connections between concepts, ideas and subjects.

  • Transfer: Applying learning to new, practical, and creative situations.

This progression helps our students become confident, curious and capable learners who are ready for the future.

Literacy and Numeracy

Our literacy and numeracy programs are designed to maximise every child’s success. Through structured teaching, supported practice and carefully planned lessons, students achieve at their point of need. Data is used continuously to inform teacher planning, track growth and ensure targeted support is in place.

Students are also actively involved in their learning. With the guidance of their teachers, they set personal goals, reflect on their progress and celebrate achievements. This empowers them to take ownership of their learning journey.

Supporting All Learners

We are proud to be recognised as a school that other educators visit to learn from, particularly in the areas of literacy, student goal setting and teacher-student conferencing.

We also know that every child learns differently. To support this, we provide targeted intervention and tutoring opportunities for students who need extra help. This ensures that every child, regardless of their starting point, has the opportunity to thrive.