How Padua College and Families Partner to Nurture Learning & Teaching
Today's students are facing exciting yet complex challenges, from technological advancements to social and environmental changes. These opportunities require creative, innovative, and resilient learners, prepared to lead and contribute to the future. While schools play a pivotal role in shaping these learners, families are equally essential in supporting and reinforcing education. Together, Padua College and its families form a strong partnership that focuses on teaching, learning, and student wellbeing. By doing what they do best—educating and nurturing students—Padua College, with the support of families, is helping students build a strong foundation for the future.
1. Adapting to Technological Advancements
Challenge: With rapid developments in artificial intelligence, digital tools, and automation, students need to be prepared for a future where technology is at the forefront of most industries.
Focus on Learning and Teaching: Padua College has integrated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) programs that offer students hands-on learning experiences in coding, robotics, and digital design. Through innovative programs like STEM MAD (Make a Difference), students are encouraged to develop problem-solving skills by designing projects that address real-world issues using technology. These opportunities build critical and creative thinking skills, essential for modern learners. Families can support this by fostering curiosity and engagement with technology at home, allowing students to extend their learning beyond the classroom.
2. Climate Change and Sustainability
Challenge: As climate change becomes an urgent global issue, students need to understand the importance of sustainability and be prepared to take action to protect the environment.
Focus on Learning and Teaching: Padua College promotes environmental stewardship through its Sustainability Leaders program, where students take the lead in environmental initiatives such as recycling drives, energy conservation projects, and tree planting. These initiatives are aligned with cross-curriculum priorities that link sustainability to all subjects, ensuring students understand the broader impact of environmental issues. Families can reinforce these lessons at home by adopting sustainable practices and supporting students in their efforts.
3. Navigating Globalisation and Cultural Diversity
Challenge: In an increasingly interconnected world, students require a strong sense of intercultural awareness and the ability to engage with diverse perspectives. These skills are essential for understanding global issues and fostering empathy across cultures.
Focus on Learning and Teaching: Padua College is committed to equipping students with the skills to navigate globalisation and cultural diversity through a range of initiatives and curriculum integration.
Intercultural and global themes are embedded in subjects such as English, Humanities, and Ethics, allowing students to explore topics like migration, global citizenship, and the impact of various cultures on Australian society. This comprehensive approach deepens students' understanding of diversity and promotes critical thinking about global issues. Additionally, the College offers Languages Other Than English (LOTE) programs, which help students appreciate and understand different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. This initiative strengthens their intercultural competence and global awareness.
These elements reflect a holistic approach to navigating globalisation and cultural diversity, aligning with the Victorian Curriculum’s aims to prepare students for a globally interconnected world. By incorporating intercultural learning into various aspects of the curriculum, students gain a deeper understanding of diversity, an essential skill for the modern world. Families play a vital role in reinforcing this learning by fostering discussions about culture, identity, and diversity at home, contributing to a more inclusive and understanding community.
4. Mental Health and Wellbeing
Challenge: As students face increasing pressures, managing mental health and wellbeing becomes a crucial aspect of their ability to succeed in learning.
Focus on Learning and Teaching: An integral part of the learning environment, is the promotion of emotional and social development alongside academic growth. One of the standout programs in this space is the new partnership with the Hopeful Institute. Through workshops and mentorship, students, are encouraged to develop leadership skills, resilience, and a hopeful outlook on life. The Hopeful Institute empowers students to cultivate optimism, face challenges with positivity, and reflect on their future pathways. Earlier this term, our Year 12 students were captivated by positivity and motivational storytelling. Students were engaged on topics that are essential in today’s world, including grit, emotional intelligence, empathy, and hope. Through this lens, the goal is to help students build a vision for their future and take decisive action towards their academic and career goals. Students left the session feeling empowered, motivated, and equipped with the tools they need to excel both in their studies and future endeavours (see student feedback below). In the lead-up to the final examinations and certifications in the coming months, students were reminded and encouraged to understand their purpose and go for it. Families are invited to support this holistic approach to student wellbeing, reinforcing these positive attitudes at home and working together with the College to create a nurturing environment.
5. Preparing for Future Careers Through Applied Learning
Challenge: As career paths evolve, students need to develop practical skills that will prepare them for the workforce of tomorrow.
Focus on Learning and Teaching: Padua College’s Careers, Applied Learning, and VET Program connects students with practical experiences and pathways to a variety of careers. Through the VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) and VET courses, students explore hands-on learning while gaining qualifications that prepare them for industry. Applied learning opportunities such as the Mindshop Excellence Workshop, where students worked with the Village Glen Nursing Home to address volunteer shortages, develop essential problem-solving skills. Families can support these initiatives by encouraging students to explore diverse career options and work experiences.
6. Developing Leadership and Social Responsibility
Challenge: Students must be equipped with leadership skills and a sense of social responsibility to make positive contributions to their communities and the world.
Focus on Learning and Teaching: Leadership development is embedded in the Learning and Teaching process through programs like the Student Representative Council (SRC) and Respectful Relationships. These programs foster a sense of responsibility, encouraging students to lead initiatives that promote equality and respect within the College community. The College’s involvement in the United Nations Evatt Trophy Competition allows students to engage with global issues through simulated diplomatic debates, further honing their critical thinking and leadership skills. Last Saturday, Padua College competed in the semi-finals, held at St Hilda's College. This prestigious event, which simulates the workings of the United Nations Security Council, offered students an invaluable opportunity to develop leadership skills and a deep sense of social responsibility. Throughout the competition, students engaged in high-level debates on global issues, refining their critical thinking, negotiation, and public speaking abilities. Participation in the Evatt Trophy is an important way for students to gain an understanding of international relations while working collaboratively to address complex challenges. This experience plays a significant role in shaping future leaders who are equipped to make ethical and socially responsible decisions.
Additionally, Padua encourages students to participate in the Spirit of ANZAC Prize, an annual competition for Victorian students in Years 9-12 that fosters reflection on the values of courage, mateship, and sacrifice. This provides an important opportunity for students to connect historical lessons with their own sense of social responsibility. Families play a crucial role by supporting students in their leadership roles both in and outside of the College.
7. Managing Information Overload and Media Literacy
Challenge: In the digital age, students must be able to critically evaluate the vast amount of information they encounter daily.
Focus on Learning and Teaching: The College integrates media literacy into its teaching, helping students develop the skills to assess the reliability of information, understand media bias, and engage responsibly with digital platforms. Through participation in debating, students enhance their critical thinking and public speaking skills, essential for engaging with media critically. The College also supports the development of expressive skills through its involvement in the RSL Rosebud Poetry Competition, where students explore themes of remembrance and identity through writing.
Families can extend this learning by encouraging discussions about current events and helping students navigate digital content responsibly.
8. Fostering Creativity and Innovation
Challenge: To succeed in an increasingly complex world, students need to think creatively and develop innovative solutions to challenges.
Focus on Learning and Teaching: Creativity is central to learning at Padua College, with students excelling in VCE Music, VCE VET Music, and VCE Design, regularly receiving awards for their talents. The Southern Independent Schools Catholic Arts Festival is a major event which aligns our holistic approach to education, incorporating creative arts and student engagement. These festivals often feature visual arts, music, drama, and multimedia performances from students and the experiences they gain are memorable and are provided opportunities to shine. Recently, the College held the annual spectacular Music Gala event, showcasing the rich and vibrant talents of our students across a range of musical genres. The evening was a true celebration of creativity and skill, with students delivering captivating performances. A special mention goes to our staff who spearhead the event with dedication and vision, as well as our supportive peripatetic staff, whose guidance and expertise were instrumental in bringing the performances to life. It was an unforgettable event that highlighted the extraordinary talent within our College community.
The Role of Families in Supporting Learning and Teaching
Families play a crucial role in supporting Padua College’s Learning and Teaching initiatives. When families actively engage with their child’s education, students benefit from a consistent, supportive learning environment that extends beyond the classroom. Parents and guardians can:
Communicate regularly with teachers and stay informed about their child’s progress.
Encourage good study habits and foster a positive attitude towards learning at home.
Participate in College activities and events, strengthening the partnership between home and College.
Reinforce the College’s values, helping students see the relevance of what they learn in both academic and personal contexts.
How Colleges and Families Can Work Together
Personalised Learning: Padua College prioritises personalised learning paths, catering to the unique strengths and needs of each student. Families can contribute by providing input and support, ensuring that students stay motivated and engaged.
Collaboration and Teamwork: The College promotes collaborative learning, encouraging students to work together. Families can reinforce teamwork by encouraging cooperative activities at home.
Student Agency and Voice: Padua empowers students to take ownership of their education. Families can foster this by allowing students to make decisions about their learning and future goals.
By focusing on Learning and Teaching, Padua College and its families are creating an environment where students are empowered to navigate the challenges of today and build a bright future. Through creativity, leadership, resilience, and a passion for learning, Padua students are well-equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Mindshop Excellence Program
The Mindshop Excellence program challenges a group of students to solve a real-world problem within a week. Padua College students Jorja Stylianou, Melody Wood-Swords, George Eslick and Harper Ross participated in this program and were tasked with finding a solution for Village Glen Aged Care's volunteer shortage. Before COVID-19, the aged care facility had over 30 volunteers, but this number has since dropped to just four, largely due to a cumbersome 23-page application form.
Throughout the week, we collaborated using five problem-solving strategies taught to us by James and Julie (Mindshop Mentors). These strategies included RCB (Readiness, Capability, Belief), mind mapping, force field analysis, the Pareto principle, a one-page plan, and the Now, Where, How framework. As a team, we identified the key issues: the lengthy application process and the lack of marketing, which left potential volunteers unaware of the need.
Our proposed solutions were to streamline the application process by removing non-essential paperwork, enhance marketing efforts through the website and social media, and introduce a weekly recognition lunch for volunteers to show appreciation.
Despite facing challenges with our team size fluctuating from three to four members, we successfully completed the task. We then presented our problem-solving process and solutions to Vice Principal Learning and Teaching, Mrs Angelina Ranson, Head of Applied Learning/VET Co-ordinator, Ms Melissa Gilchrist, Careers Counsellor/Teacher Ms Claire Stipic, and Learning Support Officer, Mrs Cassandra Collier, as well as two staff members from Village Glen.
This experience was an excellent opportunity for us to build confidence and teamwork skills, and we were all proud of the rewarding outcome and sense of accomplishment.
Written by Jorja Stylianou and Melody Wood-Swords
The Hopeful Institute
Our Year 12 students were captivated by the positivity and motivational storytelling in the workshop run by The Hopeful Institute earlier this term, which you can view here:
“I’m one of the students at the school Padua College where you gave that killer presentation today. Just had to let you know how much it hit me. Honestly, I've never been so glued to a speech before. Every word you said felt like it was meant for me. Thanks a ton for the inspiration. Your talk was the best I've ever heard, and it's seriously changed how I see things.”
“Your story really connected with me. I lost faith in myself and questioned if I was good enough, but your talk reminded myself of what I can do and what I can achieve if I just give it everything. I plan on getting a vision board tomorrow to help set my mind on my goals and go tunnel vision.”
“I had the privilege of listening to your talk at Padua College. For me the way you expressed your presentation was completely and utterly moving. It has made me think on a deeper level about my future and how I can fulfill myself in ways I never thought I could. Some of the things you said really resonated with me and I feel like a weight has lifted off my shoulders that I didn't even know needed to be addressed. In the past, the fear of failure and the fear of being judged has stopped me from achieving my goals but I now know that for me to fulfil myself in any capacity of life I must pull out these weeds that are holding me back. Overall, I would just like to thank you again for your inspiring words today. They have changed my perspective on lots of things and your impact on me and Padua College was amazing and unexpected.”
“I was touched by your speech. I’ve been in a bad spot for a while and that speech helped wake me up, so I thank you for that. All the best for your organisation, family, and your continuous support to other schools all over the world.”
“You spoke to us today, and WOW! was I moved. This year at school I've been lacking a lot of motivation and commitment and your speech although it's late has made me want to give it my all and crush the exams coming up. Thank you so much!
“You came to my school Padua College today and I just want to thank you for your time. You've personally inspired me, encouraging me to instil commitment into my dreams. It was really a wake up call. Thank you once again for this incredible opportunity.”
The United Nations EVATT Trophy
In August, Padua College students competed against teams from Nossal High School and Kambrya College in the preliminary rounds of the United Nations Youth Evatt Competition where each represented a country from the 2024 United Nations Security Council. Students participated in model UN activities, debating resolutions on peacekeeping in Haiti, international poaching and environmental pollution.
Aiyana Fernandopulle, James Harris, Jakub Szadura, Ryan Healy, Fin Fowler and Asha Sansun made it through to the next round of the competition to represent the College on Saturday 7 September.
RSL Commemorative Poetry Competition
The Southern Peninsula Region RSL Commemorative Poetry Competition is spearheaded by the Rosebud RSL, and was inspired by our competition ambassadors, Jet and Eva Angus, Rosebud Campus students who each read their poems at local RSL ceremonies on Remembrance Day. This competition offers students in the Southern Peninsula the opportunity to honour the service and sacrifice of the brave Australians who have served; from the ANZACs in the First World War, through to the present day.
We are asking students to reflect on this proud history and express what it means to them in the form of a poem. They may write about any conflict, service or individual, and from any perspective. All types of poetry will be accepted and we encourage students to be creative and really think about what it means to them.
The sacrifice of the men and women who served in the First World War and all those who followed them is an important part of our nation’s identity, and will only live on if each generation asks the question: “What does it mean to me?”
There are four categories of entries:
Primary: Years 3 – 4 Primary: Years 5 - 6 Secondary: Years 7 - 9 Secondary: Years 10 – 12
In each category…
• Winners will receive $500, a family pass to the Enchanted Adventure, a family pass for Arthur’s Seat Eagle, may have their poems published in the local newspaper and be invited to read their poem at an RSL Remembrance Day Service.
• Runners Up will receive $200 and a family pass for Arthur’s Seat Eagle.
• Second Runners Up will receive $100
• Honorable Mentions will receive $50
NB: All prize winners will be published in our RSL Poetry Anthology, receive a framed certificate and be invited to an awards evening on Wednesday 30 October, where their poems will be displayed and the winners and runners up will be announced.
• Each entrant will receive a commemorative certificate as a thank you for their efforts.
Entries must be neat and legible and received by Tuesday 8 October.
Please see the website to enter & for terms & conditions.
At times, photographs or videos of our students will be published in newsletters, on the school intranet or website, or in our social media. Copies of our Standard Collection Notice and Privacy Policy are available on the College website in the Enrolments section of our Policies page. Please note that consent to use these images in this way, if provided at enrolment, may be withdrawn at any time by contacting our marketing team via email: marketing@padua.vic.edu.au .
