Curriculum 5–6
At Gioia House, students are taught by expert specialist secondary teachers who are experts in both their disciplines. Learning extends across dedicated subject areas, with classes that deepen knowledge, spark curiosity and encourage higher-order thinking. This approach allows students to engage with learning in more sophisticated ways, while still being supported within a nurturing tween environment.
By accessing specialist teaching and secondary facilities, students begin to experience the rhythms and expectations of secondary schooling in a gradual, supported way. This intentional design builds confidence, independence and academic readiness, ensuring a smooth transition into secondary school.
Our Primary Religious Education course is teaching adapted from the Sydney Catholic Education program and integrated with the Dominican Charism.
English lessons feature mixed-ability classes – a differentiated program with opportunities for enrichment. Our Accendo reading program focuses on small ability groups across the grade with a strong focus on directed reading and comprehension. We promote wide reading/reading for enjoyment and library borrowing in the secondary campus library.
Our weekly Pi mathematics program takes place within small ability groups across the grade. There is a strong focus on number concepts and problem-solving strategies. Daily core Mathematics lessons see mixed ability classes, a differentiated program with opportunities for enrichment.
The study of Human Society and its Environment fosters inquiry, critical thinking and collaboration through rich concept-driven History and Geography units. It develops informed, compassionate and curious citizens who understand the interconnectedness of people, places and cultures while nururing a sens of belonging, awe and wonder about the world and the past.
Science is taught by a specialist Science teacher in the Secondary Campus Science laboratories in mixed ability classes with an emphasis on practical skills.
We provide opportunities for all students to engage actively in the design-thinking process using technology tools. In these classes, students are able to develop digital literacy skills to enable critical, creative, discerning and safe practices with digital technologies.
Students study Italian, French, Chinese and Spanish across Years 5 and 6, taught by specialist language teachers. The program builds foundations in listening, speaking, reading and writing, while fostering cultural awareness and global perspectives.
Philosophy lessons unique to Santa Sabina aim to foster the development of thought and a sense of wonder through respectful discussions. It aims to help students develop critical, creative, caring and collaborative thinking skills which are widely applicable and valuable for the rest of their lives.
Students participate in weekly classes and practical instrumental experiences delivered by specialist music teachers.
Year 5
Instrumental Program: 1 hour per week (Gioia House Strings)
Choral Singing: 30 minutes per week
Music Concepts: 45 minutes per week
Year 6
Instrumental Program: 1 hour per week (choice of Gioia House Strings or Mini Maestros: percussion, brass or woodwind)
Choral Singing: 30 minutes per week
Music Concepts: 45 minutes per week
Extra opportunities exist for Gioia House students including involvement in co-curricular activities and College productions.
Monday to Thursday: 7:45am – 4:45pm
Friday: 7:45am – 4:00pm
