In recent times the evolving landscape of education has changed dramatically, the skills needed for success in the 21st century require future-focused and human-centric learning. In order to equip students to thrive beyond school, educators need to understand every student is unique, and provide tailored opportunities which open up individualised pathways for exploration and growth.
Leaders and staff at St Philip’s Christian College in Port Stephens have been working collaboratively with students to understand their unique interests, aspirations and goals in the development of tailored pathways which are helping students to expand their learning journey. By involving students in the learning process, the College has created a dynamic and enriching schooling experience tailored to the students’ individual needs.
Leaning into the unique benefits of the surrounding environment, the College has established real-life application courses such as Marine Studies. Students have the opportunity to venture out into the waters off Port Stephens and work alongside the Coastguard and Marine Biologists out in the local ecosystem in tandem with lessons on the College grounds in the purpose-built aquarium space. This real-world application of the learnt theory is helping learning come to life for the students.
Industry partnerships like the one with Collins Aerospace is also opening the students’ eyes to the possibilities of how learning can come alive in the classroom. SPCC Port Stephens has partnered with Aerospace to increase engagement with STEM subjects through work placements, mentoring opportunities and Space Day hosted at the College.
As part of the work experience program, four students were hosted by Collins Aerospace in Sydney. In preparation the students were interviewed by the Collins Aerospace team and each student had a personalised project to work on over the week.
“The most valuable part of the week was being surrounded by like-minded people. As young children we were obsessed with space and we still are. Getting the opportunity to work in an aerospace industry was a dream come true. The time at Collins Aerospace has confirmed our future aspirations in this field.” – SPCC Student
The primary objective at St Philip’s is to offer a comprehensive and transformative educational experience and Principal Mr Martin Telfer believes these tailored pathways are helping to support this endeavour.
‘Our desire at St Philip’s is to provide an educational journey which goes beyond the mere acquisition of knowledge and skills; we aim to instil a profound appreciation for the richness of life and learning in our students. I believe our tailored pathways and our involvement of students in the learning design process are going a long way toward achieving this.’
For further information please contact:
Liz Denton, Registrar
PH: 4919 5400
E: liz.denton@spcc.nsw.edu.au | www.spcc.nsw.edu.au
