Course Selections
St Francis offers a diverse array of course selections to cater to the varied interests and academic pursuits of our students. With dedicated faculty and modern facilities, we strive to ensure that every student finds their passion and receives the necessary support to excel in their chosen subjects.
Curriculum
The curriculum at St. Francis is designed around Key Learning Areas essential for comprehensive education. These include Religious Education, English, Mathematics, Science, and more. Mandatory courses for Years 7-10 are aligned with the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), ensuring a robust foundation for all students. From Year 9 onwards, students can select elective subjects tailored to their interests and career aspirations.
Curriculum and Electives
In Years 7 and 8, all students complete mandatory core subjects. In Years 9 and 10, students must take Religion, English, Mathematics, Science, and HSIE courses. Still, they can choose electives from the remaining KLAs.
Students and parents receive Course Information Booklets at the end of Year 8 and Year 10, and the school hosts Information Evenings. These events provide the necessary information for selecting elective classes for Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10) and Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12). Students are encouraged to speak with teachers for advice and support in making their decisions.
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
VET courses at SFC equip students with practical, industry-specific skills through NESA-developed or endorsed programs. These courses lead to nationally recognised qualifications and often include work placements, enhancing real-world experience in business services, hospitality, construction, and information technology.
Laptop Program
Students receive a new laptop at the start of Year 7 and Year 10. While students are responsible for the care and safety of their laptops, our on-site IT team provides suppport for the maintenance of the devices during the school day.
Phone Usage Policy
The school maintains a balanced approach to personal digital devices. A phone usage policy guides students in restricting phones in class to minimise distraction and misuse.
Learning Support
Inclusive and Diverse Learning
Our Inclusive and Diverse Learning Leader oversees our inclusive education initiatives. We ensure that students who require specific support are identified and assisted through government funding initiatives when eligible. Our learning support staff monitor their progress, develop personalised plans, communicate with parents or carers, and provide the necessary documentation for medical or external support services.
Focus on Years 7 and 8
Special attention is given to Year 7 and 8 students to ensure they start secondary schooling with a strong foundation. Programs such as Quicksmart provide targeted support to individual students, while MacqLit focuses on groups of Year 8 students. Accelerated Reader sessions are conducted for all Year 8 students, fostering a love for reading and improving literacy skills.
Comprehensive Assessment and Data-Driven Support
We conduct annual assessments using Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) for all Years 7-10 students. These assessments help us plan effective programs and provide targeted support based on collected data. Our classroom instructions emphasise specific writing practices to strengthen literacy and numeracy foundations further.
Programs and Initiatives
- Quicksmart: Targeted support for individual students needing additional help.
- MacqLit: Group support for Year 8 students to improve literacy skills.
- Accelerated Reader: Sessions for all Year 8 students to enhance reading proficiency.
- Progressive Achievement Tests: Annual assessments to monitor progress and inform program planning.
Careers, Pathways & Transition
Career Pathways and Programs
At St. Francis, Mrs Wood oversees several career pathways, including programs like “Girls Can Too” and “Futures are Us,” and coordinates learning opportunities through TAFE NSW. We offer Year 11 and 12 students the non-ATAR Work Studies subject, designed to prepare them for the workforce.
Work Experience and Further Education
Mrs Wood organises the annual Year 10 Work Experience program, providing students hands-on experience in their chosen careers. She also guides senior students on education opportunities beyond secondary school, including guest speakers and university excursions. Additionally, Year 12 students receive assistance with the early entry application process.
For more information, visit the Careers Website or contact Mrs Wood directly at woodm@ww.catholic.edu.au.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Sporting Opportunities
The College hosts Swimming, Athletics, and Cross Country carnivals each year, providing students with opportunities to excel and progress to state-level events. Our college teams, coached by teachers, compete locally against other schools, enriching our community spirit through sportsmanship and teamwork.
Creative Opportunities
The college is very proud to offer various creative opportunities for our students, including one-on-one private music tuition, where students can develop their musical talents under expert guidance. Students also have the chance to present their artwork, dramatic talents, dance performances, and musical skills at school events such
as our annual Showcase supported by students in the Sound and Lighting crew.
Quiet Activities and Intellectual Pursuits
Quiet Activities and Intellectual Pursuits Our library hosts events like board game competitions and offers a wide selection of reading material and information resources for borrowing. The library also serves as a quiet space where students can catch up on homework or work on assessments during lunch breaks. Additionally, our school boasts a lively Chess Club where students engage in friendly competition and participate in tournaments against other schools.