Students in Gioia House follow the NSW Curriculum with courses in English, Mathematics, Science and Technology, History, Geography, PDHPE and Creative Arts – including experiences in Music, Visual Arts, Drama and Dance. In addition to mandatory courses, students at Gioia House learn Religious Education, Languages, Philosophy, Interdisciplinary, Pastoral Care and Community. Lessons are scheduled in a fortnightly program of Week A and Week B. Drama, Italian, Music, PDHPE, Science and Visual Arts are taught by specialist teachers.
English
Gioia House English lessons feature mixed ability classes – a differentiated program with opportunities for enrichment (e.g. Speak Up writing competition). 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.
Mathematics
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 (Mathematics Challenge, Mathematics Olympiad and MANSW inquiry).
Interdisciplinary
Interdisciplinary learning provides opportunities for students to make connections between ideas and concepts across different subjects via Inquiry-based teaching and learning opportunities. It allows students to explore individual differences and helps them to develop important, transferable skills through inquiry. Opportunities for projects and collaboration across the grade, including STEM collaboration with the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).
Science
Science is taught by a specialist Science teacher in the Secondary Campus Science laboratories in mixed ability classes with an emphasis on practical skills.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
In Gioia House we provide pportunities 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.
Philosophy
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.
Music
- Instrumental program – 1 hour per week
- Choral singing – 30 minutes per week
- Music concepts – 45 minutes per week
Drama
Extra opportunities exist for Gioia House students including involvement in co-curricular activities and College productions.
Religious Education
Our Primary Religious Education course is teaching adapted from the Sydney Catholic Education program and integrated with the Dominican Charism.
