Junior Secondary Philosophy
Our philosophy is based around the provision of a seamless curriculum supported by strong, positive relationships with the stakeholders within the Springwood High community to facilitate increased opportunities and learning outcomes for students.
Our aim is to maintain student engagement and enthusiasm for learning and Strength, Tenacity, Resilience Optimism and Motivation (STORM) so that school and learning is a positive and meaningful experience for all.
Springwood State High School is committed to being a school of choice. Our parents, students and the school community have a clear understanding of our education agenda including tailoring an education experience for each student. Springwood State High School is adept at working with each student and their parents to understand the learning needs of each student throughout their schooling career. Our whole school vision is “21st Century teaching and learning within a culture of care" and our values are respect, industry, cooperation.
Springwood SHS has identified a learning focus through the implementation of our Five Platforms for success:
- Academic Excellence
- Pathways
- Sport and the Arts
- Wellbeing and
- Community
These platforms are an integral part of our Junior Secondary model and are celebrated with parents through Junior Secondary student awards.
Springwood State High School utilizes Robert Marzano's 'Art and Science of Teaching' (ASOT) as its pedagogical framework to support teaching and learning. The ASOT framework assists teachers to reflect upon, and develop, their pedagogical practice in a way that results in improved teaching and student results. Effective classroom instruction results in engaged students and improved student outcomes; to achieve this the teachers will focus on all elements of the teaching process. ASOT supports the delivery of highly innovative lessons, integrating technology and non-technology strategies with a focus on developing higher order thinking skills. Wellbeing Focus of the fortnight have been identified for our Junior Secondary students and are integrated within lessons. ASOT also supports the pedagogical practice of providing expectations about the learning intent, organising the classrooms to set up student success and clearly identifying student learning behaviours.
Our Springwood Citizens in Action program supports the pastoral care of students with specific lessons tailored to each year level and focuses on preparation for senior schooling, building the house culture, house specific activities and culminating in a community-based service activity. Students will know what it means to be a part of their house and how to have their voice heard within the school. Students will also participate in specific lessons focused on the positive behaviour focus each week, which will be embedded in every lesson.
Springwood SHS has introduced the House Academy programs where students can specialise in their field of choice. This includes students nominating and participating in a number of house led class during a Tuesday 2:30 to 3:30. The Academies include:
Writers Academy
Debating Academy
Visual Arts Academy
AFL Academy
Netball Academy
E-Sports Academy
Springwood State High School has a close alliance with our local Primary school and have strengthened these partnerships through several activities throughout each year. The partnership has strengthened student participation in Science, Sports, Under 8's days and music and assisting with a seamless transition into High School.
The Junior Secondary model clusters subjects, enabling one teacher to take two or more subjects, reducing the number of teachers that students must get to know. Along with our House Masters, House Leaders and Faculty structure we have introduced cross faculty connections similar to the year level meetings in a primary school. Our Junior Secondary precinct has been established including a refurbished air-conditioned Humanities block, designated Yr7 space during break times and toilet areas.