Academic

Strathcona’s proven academic program has been finely tuned to develop the critical thinker in every girl. Curiosity and healthy scepticism are vital ingredients in developing deeper understandings that go beyond the classroom.

Our teachers often remark that they are lucky to have a vocation which allows them to share in the excitement of discovery that is learning. The spirit of teamwork existing between student and teacher is genuine. Our teachers are in tune with each student’s potential in order to bring out her best. Such a partnership is only possible because of our commitment to small class sizes—another key factor in the success of Strathcona over the years.

The dynamics of a small class ensure that we can assess individual differences in abilities and learning styles. With a very clear understanding of each girl’s academic potential, we are able to cater for her specific needs throughout her school life. The learning journey begins in our new Junior School which opened in 2005. The new site, just a minute’s walk from the original campus in Canterbury, offers our Prep to Grade 6 students innovative facilities yet retains the family style environment which has been such a strong feature of the original school. An integrated, structured approach to the teaching of literacy and numeracy and a wide range of specialist programs provide a firm foundation for learning at the secondary level.

The transition to Year 7 is a significant step for all our girls—a very exciting time when new friends are made and new challenges taken up. Our Nautilus and Starburst Programs at Years 7 and 8 are designed to develop students’ multiple intelligences and their individual learning styles.

When the girls enter Year 9 and move to our Hawthorn campus for the unique 12 month Tay Creggan experience, independent inquiry in project based learning is emphasised. On returning to the Senior campus, the girls continue to develop their abilities as creative and critical thinkers, with an additional focus in Year 10 on skills for the workplace and life beyond school. The girls continue to be supported in their senior years across a wide range of subjects by dedicated staff. The new Senior Centre and Information resource Centre also contribute to their success. Naturally, the ultimate indicator of the effectiveness of our academic program is the exceptional results our VCE students achieve each year.