Prospectus
CORPUS CHRISTI COLLEGE Murdoch Drive, Bateman Ph: (08) 6332 2500 Fax: (08) 9310 5648 Email: info@corpus.wa.edu.au Web: www.corpus.wa.edu.au
Contents Contents 2 Welcome from the Principal 3 Our History 4 The College Mission 6 Learner Profile 8 Pastoral Care 9 The House System 12 Information, Communication and Technologies 14 Diversity and Inclusivity 15 Inspiring Academically Talented Students 16 Senior School 18 Middle School 20 Student Opportunities 23 Facilities Now and into the Future...
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Welcome from the Principal CORPUS CHRISTI COLLEGE IS PROUDLY A CATHOLIC SCHOOL WITH STRONG TIES TO THE SURROUNDING PARISHES, A SCHOOL THAT VALUES THE RELATIONSHIPS BUILT WITH THESE COMMUNITIES BEYOND GRADUATION. We motivate girls and boys both individually and collectively to achieve excellence by empowering each one of them, teaching them to work together, learning alongside one another to achieve goals that will help them to realise their potential in the future. We enjoy a reputation for academic excellence and for educating young people to serve as school and community leaders. In response to the needs of students in today’s rapidly changing world, we equip students to be life-long learners and global citizens, technologically savvy, able to meet life’s challenges due to the support they receive from their families and the education they have gained from their college.
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orpus Christi College invites you to journey through the Prospectus as a first step towards understanding the wide range of learning opportunities afforded our students, from the moment they join our community. Providing a strong academic programme, supported by teachers who prepare lessons that challenge, inspire and engage students is an essential part of any good school. So, what’s different about Corpus Christi College? We inspire students to live out our College motto, Sequere Dominum, to ‘Follow the Lord’. They do this by developing a relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer, Retreat and Reflection programmes. Through the Religious Education programme, their teachers share the Catholic faith by promoting knowledge and understanding of the Gospel, and explain how followers of Christ are called to live this Gospel in today’s world. Students discover which values are absolute and deepen their understanding of these, through critical reflection and application.
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We care for students. Pastoral Care at Corpus Christi College means enhancing the dignity of each person within our faith community. It is concerned with maximising learning and growth to enable all to become inner directed, contributing members of God’s creation. Pastoral care infuses every part of the culture of the College – through their Homeroom teacher, the House system in which all students are involved, the Heads of Year who oversee the collective pastoral programme for students, through the psychological support offered to those who require it and the online tools available to support students who need help. We provide a well-rounded educational programme for each child. We value the individual child and understand that our role is to provide a learning environment in which the intellectual, spiritual and personal needs of our students can be catered for in our academic and pastoral programmes. We encourage our students to value the opportunities that are made available to them in pursuing not
only their academic studies, but also their interests in a range of extracurricular activities. The skills and knowledge gained from such pursuits ensure that our students are able to meet the challenges of our society with confidence. We utilise cutting edge technology to enhance our educational programmes. Lessons and teaching and learning programmes are all available online, and are made available to all students via digital devices. Our 24/7 communication to parents is made available through the parent portal and the service oriented approach of our ICT Service Team is made available to all students, staff and parents. Our aims are embodied in fundamental Catholic principles and beliefs. We encourage respect and value human dignity, challenge students to improve and contribute to the society in which they live for the betterment of all as followers of Christ, and the ability to look beyond oneself and help those in need. Corpus Christi College is proudly a Catholic school with strong ties to the surrounding parishes, a school that values the relationships built with these communities beyond graduation. These are some of the defining characteristics of the College and what makes us unique in our community. I invite you to explore our College website for further information at www.corpus.wa.edu.au OR you may wish to book a tour of the College by emailing communications@corpus. wa.edu.au or by telephoning (08) 6332 2517 to make an appointment. Mrs Caroline Payne Principal
Our History T
he College was established by the Catholic Education Commission of WA (CECWA) and officially opened on 17 April 1983 by the Archbishop of Perth, Sir Launcelot Goody and the Commonwealth Minister for Finance, Mr John Dawkins. This was seen as a landmark for Catholic education in WA as Corpus Christi College was the first non-Order owned coeducational Catholic secondary college in the Archdiocese of Perth established by the Catholic Education Commission. In 1983, the College opened its doors with 128 Year 8 students and seven teaching staff under the Principal, Father Robert McCormack. Year 7 students entered secondary schooling at the College in 2009. Over the past 30 years, the College has grown in size and reputation under the stewardship of Principals Father Robert McCormack O.Carm., Mr Tony Curtis, Mr David Heath, Mr Vaughan Sadler and current incumbant Mrs Caroline Payne, whose principalship commenced in October 2009. In the first thirty years of its history, the College has established its reputation as a leading Catholic educational secondary college in the southern suburbs. This has been highlighted by Corpus Christi’s stated mission: “We are a Catholic community committed to empowering every learner to serve and enrich our changing world”. The College currently caters for over 1300 students from Years 7 to 12.
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The College Mission ‘For a school to be Catholic, it must first be a good school. Otherwise it will be unable to fulfil its mission’ (Mandate Letter 19)
At Corpus Christi College, we have earned a strong reputation in the community focused on providing the very best Catholic education directed to the growth of the whole person for young men and women since 1983, and highlighted by our stated mission: ‘We are a Catholic community committed to empowering every learnerto serve and enrich our changing world’. Corpus Christi College is one body made up of many parts. In ‘Following the Lord’ as our motto challenges us, we support parents in guiding students to live life in the Catholic tradition, working towards developing a culture of excellence through a quality teaching and learning culture within a supportive, inclusive and pastoral environment for the young men and women in our community.
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Teachers are learners too. In continuing to develop all teachers in the College, we want to provide an educational programme that ensures the possibility of high achievement for all our students. In empowering students to live the Catholic faith in the spirit of Jesus Christ, we are guided by the values the College espouses, namely: • • • • • •
Nurturing a living faith Promoting justice and service to others Striving for excellence in all we do Fostering joy in learning Respecting the dignity of each person Creating and maintaining a caring and inclusive College community.
In building a culture of continuous improvement, these values have become guiding principles that are reflected in the educational programmes developed for students.
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he Celtic cross was specially chosen because it does not carry the figure of the crucified Christ, but rather symbolises the risen Christ, our source of joy and celebration.
THE COLLEGE CREST
The white field surrounded by the blue circle symbolises the Eucharist, in which we celebrate the risen Christ and give thanks for the sacrifice of His life for us. This symbolism is emphasised by the words “CORPUS CHRISTI” (Body of Christ) from which the College derived its name. The colour burgundy reminds us of the red wine consecrated in the Eucharistic celebration to become the blood of Christ, a symbol of sacrifice and community celebration. The colour blue reminds us of the humanity of Christ through His mother, Mary. The motto “SEQUERE DOMINUM” (Follow the Lord) incorporates the ideal and challenge of following Our Lord, Jesus Christ.
CORPUS CHRISTI … A CATHOLIC COLLEGE
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t the heart of Corpus Christi College is its Catholic ethos. The College is a place of evangelisation, committed to promoting a Catholic ethos among our students. All students are provided with faith experiences through our formal Religious Education programme for students from Year 7 to Year 12. The Senior School Religion and Life programme is offered as a university entry level course or a general course for graduation purposes.
The rich liturgical and sacramental experiences offered are supported by our surrounding Parish Priests. All students are required to undertake Christian Service Learning programmes and participate in Retreat and Reflection Days. These programmes encourage the development of individuals by fostering a sense of their own worth, the value and dignity of human life, and of responsibility for and service to others.
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Learner Profile CORPUS CHRISTI COLLEGE
LEARNER PROFILE YEARS 7-12 Staff will strive towards having students develop the following attributes:
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Christlike
Empathetic, Compassionate, Respectful, Just, Ethical, Moral, Service-oriented, Counter-cultural, Charitable, Caring, Accepting, Inclusive, Fair, Tolerant, Trusting, Forgiving, Honest, Responsible.
Resilient
Patient, Confident, Courageous, Accountable, Resourceful, Learn from mistakes, Positive, Active participants, Risk taker, Emotional strength, Perseverance, Adaptable, Self-motivated.
Communicator
Active participant, Active listener, eSmart, Articulate, Literate, Numerate, Questioner, Collaborative, Expressive, Inclusive, Adaptable, Thoughtful, Reasoned, Appropriate user of technology.
Global Citizen
Open-minded, eSmart, Tolerant, Aware, Collaborative, Proactive, Informed, Responsible, Curious, Inclusive, Ethical, Sustainable.
Thinker
Critical thinker, Curious, Creative, Innovative, Adaptable, Open-minded, Problem solver, Strategic, Logical, Investigator, Independent, Appropriate user of technology.
Excellence
Engaged, Knowledgeable, Motivated, Organised, Confidence, Ambitious, Informed, Perseverance, Risk taker, Passion for learning, Work ethic, Prepared, Goal-oriented, Curious.
Balanced
Between: Intellectual, Physical, Social, Emotional, Spiritual, Creative, Well-rounded.
Reflective
Analytical, Solutions-oriented, Improvement-oriented, Self-aware, Adaptable, Flexible, Measured.
Learner Profile OUR LEARNING PHILOSOPHY
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he College operates as two sub-schools, the Middle School (Years 7 to 9) and the Senior School (Years 10 to 12) which serve the different learning needs of adolescents. We are committed to providing a holistic, rigorous and global curriculum that seeks to create independent learners. According to the learning philosophy developed by all stakeholders at the College, students who graduate from Corpus Christi College have
been provided with educational programmes that reflect development in eight learning attributes, which together, form the Corpus Christi College Learner Profile. The Learner Profile is the College mission statement translated into a set of learning outcomes applicable for the 21st century and our longterm vision for educating each child. The Learner Profile is a set of ideals that can inspire, motivate and focus the work of students, parents
and teachers, uniting them in a common purpose. It describes a list of attributes that promote academic rigour and the establishing of a personal value system leading to a more moral and ethical, service oriented, peaceful and sustainable globalised approach. Our pastoral care system maximises the opportunity for a graduating student to reflect these attributes.
LEARNER PROFILE YEARS 7-12 •
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The Corpus Christi College Learner Profile is made up of eight attributes or common outcomes which are deemed to be essential for success in the 21st century and for an everchanging world
to live and breathe the learner profile – any student, in any class, at any time, - it is an ethos •
The Corpus Christi College Learner Profile identifies the type of student that we wish to graduate from the College after Year 12 The Corpus Christi College Learner Profile supports the Catholic ethos of the College and its holistic approach to the individual in and beyond the classroom The Corpus Christi College Learner Profile describes eight attributes to guide the work and daily life of students and teachers uniting them in a common purpose. We all aim
The Corpus Christi College Learner Profile is designed to enhance the teaching and learning programme by guiding the College community. The eight attributes are characteristics which are deemed desirable in our students. The Corpus Christi College Learner Profile will inform what the curriculum will look like for our students
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The eight attributes will determine the strategies implemented in developing the Learner Profile. When decisions are made in the future regarding curriculum and other areas, they will address the Corpus Christi College Learner Profile attributes
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The Corpus Christi College Learner Profile is designed
so that students can become successful learners, confident and creative individuals, and active and informed citizens •
The Corpus Christi College Learner Profile attributes will specify how students can become effective contributors to the local, national and global society
“In the 21st century, Australia’s capacity to provide a high quality of life for all will depend on the ability to compete in the global economy on knowledge and innovation. Education equips young people with the knowledge, understanding, skills and values to take advantage of opportunity and to face the challenges of this era with confidence.” Source: National Declaration on the Educational Goals for Young Australians.
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Pastoral Care
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orpus Christi College is known for its strong pastoral care of students.
A wonderful pastoral image from the scriptures is that of God as “shepherd” leading and caring for His flock – the people of God. In John’s Gospel, Jesus describes himself as “I am the good shepherd”. (Jn 10:11). In our Australian culture of sheep stations, this is not so meaningful, but in Israel you can still see shepherds guiding and caring for their flock of perhaps fifty sheep, leading them to green pastures and water to refresh them. That is, guiding them to life giving experiences. Our Pastoral Care at Corpus Christi College is inspired by this image, where we focus our energies towards the realisation of the potential of each person in our College community. Pastoral Care brings together the various dimensions of College life to enrich the lives of everyone in the College. We know that when students are known and recognised as individuals in a safe and supportive learning environment, they have a greater chance of unleashing their potential for learning. This is the challenge that the staff at Corpus Christi College undertake.
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Age appropriate pastoral care programmes are offered at e Year level as part of the holistic education programme for students, overseen by Heads of Year. In addition, student leadership opportunities as House leaders and leadership in ministry, the Arts and sport are also offered at every Year level as part of the pastoral care programme.
The House System • • • •
Together, reflect the lives of Catholic saints and patrons who provide a model for leading a Catholic way of life Promotes school spirit and unity amongst the student body Enriches student school life through participation in a range of faith-based speaking and cultural activities Provides a focus for participation in the full range of College activities for students at all levels.
HOW THE HOUSE SYSTEM WORKS Structure The Corpus Christi College House system organises the whole school into eight Houses, each having a distinguishing colour: Chisholm: de Vialar: MacKillop: Merici:
Blue Gold Pale Blue Red
Pallotti: Romero: Salvado: Xavier:
Silver Purple Green Black
Each of the House colours is matched with white, signifying the unifying symbol of the Eucharist which is central to our College charism – Corpus Christi.
BACKGROUND
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arly in its history, Corpus Christi College developed a House system as part of its organising structure. The primary purpose of that House system was to provide a means of organising and promoting the College’s sporting activities. The original system was made up of four Houses, named after prominent West Australians, John Bateman, Sir John Forrest, Sir Walter Logie Forbes Murdoch and Sir John Winthrop Hackett. Four House Coordinators were appointed to: • •
Promote and strengthen the House system Coordinate and organise House activities.
CURRENT HOUSE SYSTEM In 2010, the College investigated House patron names for a new House system which was introduced in 2011 with eight Houses in total. Each of the Catholic House Patrons, four female and four male demonstrate: • • • • •
Commitment to Faith and spiritual development Christian Service Courageous living out of faith in line with College motto FOLLOW THE LORD Gender balance Local and international significance.
Through the guidance and management of the House Coordinators, in conjunction with all staff, this system provides a first class framework which:
A House consists of students across Years 7-12. Students are organised into Houses which are subsequently broken into smaller groups called Homerooms. On entry to the College, each student is allocated to one of the Houses. Siblings are allocated to the same House as an older sister/brother or parent who is a staff member. Staff members are also allocated to one of these Houses. The House provides: • • • •
Guidance, care and support A vehicle for communication with the school (Year/ House notices/discussions with the Head of Year/ House Coordinator or Homeroom teacher) Opportunities for organisational and leadership roles An identity and opportunity to belong to a smaller community within the larger community of the College.
Corpus Christi College holds an Athletics Carnival, Swimming Carnival and a Cross Country Carnival each year, whereby Houses vie for the honour of winning on the day. Each House is also involved in a range of faith-based activities, including raising funds for Catholic charities and celebrating their House Patron’s Feast Day. Inter-House sports provide students with the opportunity to compete against each other in a spirit of camaraderie. There are also House cultural events such as the InterHouse Arts competition. Students are also involved in a range of pastoral activities in their Homeroom, including commencing each morning with prayer.
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The House System CHISHOLM HOUSE Patron: Motto: Feast Day: House Colour:
Caroline Chisholm “Open Hands, Open Hearts” Caroline Chisholm does not have a Feast Day. Her birthday is 30 May Dark Blue
Social reformer, Caroline Chisholm (1808 - 1877), is known as 'the emigrant's friend' for her work with poor migrants to Australia during the19th Century. After arriving in Australia from the UK, Caroline saw a need to assist the conditions of immigrants, particularly unemployed young women and then to find them jobs. She opened a Female Immigrants' Home that assisted many. She is considered one of Australia’s most outstanding women.
de VIALAR HOUSE Saint: St Emilie de Vialar Motto: “Devotion and Compassion” Feast Day: 17 June House Colour: Yellow St Emilie de Vialar (1797 - 1856) founded the Sisters of St Joseph of the Apparition in France. She spent fifteen years devoting her life to the care of children neglected by their parents and to the help of the poor before seeking to form a religious community. Her mission was to pursue “all works of charity”, in particular the instruction of children and the care of the sick in hospitals and in prisons.
MACKILLOP HOUSE Saint: Motto: Feast Day: House Colour:
St Mary of the Cross (Mary MacKillop) “See Need, Evoke Change” 8 August Sky Blue
St Mary of the Cross MacKillop (1842 - 1909) established the religious order of nuns known as the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart in Australia. Her Sisters conducted schools, refuge centres and orphanages to serve the children of the poor, and many who were suffering and neglected. Mary MacKillop was known for her kindness and encouragement to others and as someone who always sought unity.
MERICI HOUSE Saint: St Angela Merici Motto: “Act, Strive, Believe” Feast Day: 27 January House Colour: Red St Angela Merici (1474 - 1540) was one of the first to grasp the changing role of women in a society that was transformed by the Renaissance. In 1535, she gathered a group of girl students and began what would become the Institute of Saint Ursula (the Ursuline Sisters). Angela wanted her followers to teach young girls first within their own family, hoping to improve social conditions. She thought "disorder in society is the result of disorder in the family." In a time when seclusion was promoted for women, Angela considered life consecrated to God not as one enclosed within the walls of a cloister, but rather as a life immersed in the social web so that there would be more direct contact with the world’s material and spiritual needs, making her quite progressive for her time. If we learn from Angela to bear witness to the Gospel we will transform society. St Angela is the patron saint of disabled and sick people. 10
The House System PALLOTTI HOUSE Saint: Motto: Feast Day: House Colour:
St Vincent Pallotti “Serve and Do” 27 January Silver
St Vincent Pallotti (1795 - 1850) was a priest who founded the Society of the Catholic Apostolate (SAC). He sought to involve all in participating in the mission of the Church for the common purpose of living and spreading the Good News. He sought to encourage lay people to actively participate in the Church’s mission. He had particular devotion to Mary under the title of Mary, Help of Christians. Pallottine Brothers and Priests have ministered to the Aboriginal people in Western Australia since 1901. Pallottine communities in Rossmoyne and Riverton have assisted in the faith life of the College since 1983, also providing boarding facilities for children from the Kimberley region, some of whom attended the College in its early years.
ROMERO HOUSE Patron: Motto: Feast Day: House Colour:
Archbishop Oscar Romero “Aspire to be More” Oscar Romero does not have a Feast Day. His birthday is 15 August. Purple
Archbishop Oscar Romero was the Catholic Archbishop in El Salvador during the 1960s and 1970s, who spoke out on behalf of the poor and the victims of his country’s civil war, after witnessing violations of human rights. His life was an expression of heroic faithfulness to his vocation, and that faith and justice are meant to go hand in hand. In 1997, Pope John Paul II bestowed upon him the title of Servant of God.
SALVADO HOUSE Patron: Motto: Feast Day: House Colour:
Bishop Salvado “Perseverance and Stewardship” Rosendo Salvado does not have a Feast Day. His birthday is 1 March Green
Bishop Rosendo Salvado arrived in Australia from Spain in 1846 as a Benedictine Monk and devoted himself to his work in the new colony, developing the Mission at New Norcia, and was consecrated Bishop in 1849. Salvado displayed uncommon courtesy to the Aborigines in his work of educating them. Characteristic of his efforts in all areas was Salvado’s physical endurance, courage and considerable resourcefulness. One occasion he walked 130 kilometres to Perth alone, eating whatever he could find (lizards, worms, opossums) to petition Bishop Brady for funds for the mission. Upon being turned down, Rosendo Salvado, still dirty and tattered from his marathon, organised and performed a piano recital to raise the necessary money.
XAVIER HOUSE Saint: St Francis Xavier Motto: “Empowered to Achieve” Feast Day: 3 December House Colour: Black St Francis Xavier (1506 - 1552) was a priest and devoted disciple of St Ignatius Loyola from Spain, whose life exemplified an absolute detachment from material things and the social institutions of the time. He was sent to mission in India and later continued to the Far East as far as the Moluccas and Japan. He left behind a flourishing church wherever he went and is the patron saint of Australia.
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Information Communication and Technologies 21ST CENTURY LEARNING
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orpus Christi College is a 21st century learning environment connecting teachers, students and the community to the wealth of knowledge that exists in the world, and providing opportunities for them to create, reinvent and redefine ideas, knowledge and information in a respectful and compassionate way. The Colleges’ Vision, Mission and Values are achieved by incorporating an agile teaching and learning environment with innovative and progressive technologies and support. Our Teachers are transitioning from the primary role as a dispenser of information to orchestrator of learning, helping students turn information into knowledge, knowledge into wisdom and ideas to new creations. Our Students in the past were young people who came to school, spent
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specified amounts of time in certain courses, received passing grades and graduated. Today, we must see our students in new contexts: •
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Maintaining student interest by helping them to see how and what they are learning prepares them for life in the world beyond school Instilling student curiosity which is fundamental to lifelong learning Being flexible in how teachers create learning opportunities in their classes Exciting all learners to become even more resourceful so they will continue to learn outside the formal school day and beyond graduation.
The various learning technologies available to students enhance student learning and achievement as they provide students with:
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Engaging, authentic and relevant learning experiences Access to ‘just in time’ information at point of need Opportunities to interact with real world problems Readily and ongoing feedback and support from teachers.
The numerous technological tools and platforms also allow teachers to cater for the different student learning styles and abilities through curriculum differentiation at the content, process and product level. Success in the 21st century requires knowing how to learn. Our current students will likely have several career changes in their lifetime. They will have opportunities to develop the five essential skills of the 21st century: creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, communication and compassion in order to be successful in an increasingly fluid, interconnected and complex world.
THE NUMEROUS TECHNOLOGICAL TOOLS AND PLATFORMS ALSO ALLOW TEACHERS TO CATER FOR THE DIFFERENT STUDENT LEARNING STYLES AND ABILITIES THROUGH CURRICULUM DIFFERENTIATION AT THE CONTENT, PROCESS AND PRODUCT LEVEL.
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Diversity and Inclusivity A
s an inclusive community where every student is valued and fully participates in a quality educational programme as an equal member of the school community, Corpus Christi College has developed two programmes to support students with learning needs. One is administered through the Education Support
Centre for students with disabilities and another through the Learning Centre which supports students who require literacy, numeracy and/or organisational support in mainstream classes, so as to fully participate in the senior secondary graduation courses.
The values that underpin these programmes are the same for all students at the College, challenging them to use their God given talents to strive for excellence in all that they do, aiming to identify, reduce or eliminate barriers which limit students’ educational participation and achievement.
THE LEARNING CENTRE
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he Learning Centre coordinates information on students with diagnosed learning difficulties and non-diagnosed learning challenges in the mainstream programme with a focus on the middle years. Meeting the diverse learning needs of students at Corpus Christi College is achieved with the effective support of the Learning Centre, which has specialist staff in teaching literacy and numeracy, focused on providing programmes and extra support to students, ensuring they are able to work towards reaching their full learning potential. The HeadStart programme for Year 10 students assists them to prepare for successful vocational programmes in the Senior School. In Years 11 and 12, students select courses according to their academic needs and interests, subjects which are often vocational in nature. The Learning Centre is comprised of two classrooms. It has an open door policy with individualised tutoring and small group sessions for literacy, and organisational support for students to access support at the point of need. It also enables parents and the community to access information to support students with learning difficulties. The staff in the Learning Centre develop ‘learner profiles’ of students with parents and stakeholders, and from these profiles, create plans and programmes to support a student through their learning journey.
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THE EDUCATION SUPPORT CENTRE
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tudents with disabilities may require particular considerations and special arrangements, higher levels of support, differentiated curriculum and/or specialist assistance in order to achieve these goals. A strong partnership is formed with parents to form the individualised learning plans in the context of the programmes offered by the College. The College has a purpose built Education Support Centre (ESC) catering for up to 40 students with disabilities from Years 7 to 12, each following an individualised education or transition plan. Students requiring significant teaching and learning adjustments to the mainstream programme, and those with a diagnosed disability will undertake classes primarily in the Centre. Where possible, students are grouped according to age in the ESC
and integrated into specialist mainstream subjects and Year appropriate classes. This strong partnership with the mainstream classes provides an opportunity for students in the Centre to develop wider friendship groups and to be involved in extracurricular College activities.
Inspiring Academically Talented Students
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n invitation to the Corpus Christi College Academic Excellence Programme is offered to students in Years 7-9 who are identified as being academically able. The invitation is made to students based on testing which occurs within the first month of the school year. On accepting this invitation, students are able to participate in the full range of opportunities within the Saints Ambrose and Catherine Programme, including possible activities organised outside of normal school hours. It should be noted that although the Gifted and Talented programme is available to selected students, there are many extension opportunities made available to all students. For an instance, the College offers an accelerated programme in Mathematics from Year 7. It is important to recognise that academically able students often
require educational intervention to enable them to fulfil their academic potential. In particular, students with high IQ’s require an understanding that their emotional, social and academic needs are often significantly different to their peers. The College response is for individualised education plans to be developed in partnership with parents to address their needs.
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Train academically able students to be more self-aware of the attitudes, responses and approaches to learning
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Ensure academically able students continue to be motivated at school
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The Corpus Christi College Academic Excellence Programme aims to:
Ensure selected students work towards excellence in the attributes identified in the Corpus Christi College Learner Profile
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Support students, as necessary, in their overall academic programme.
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Ensure that academically able students are provided with positive, supportive learning environments as a result of being involved in unique opportunities
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Cater for academically able students who are often selfdirected learners
Based on academic results, Senior School students are invited to join the Excelsis Club designed to promote and reward academic excellence through supportive measures, providing them with activities and events that will empower them to strive for excellence and achieve their academic goals. 15
Senior School S
tudents in Years 10, 11 and 12 are offered an extensive academic programme, a stimulating learning environment and leadership opportunities to prepare them for the future. The curriculum is distinctive
in its breadth and academic rigour with modules and courses designed to stimulate the student’s intellectual development. It also prepares them for progress to the next level after graduation, be it tertiary education,
CURRICULUM
In Years 11 and 12, students select courses to study. These must include Religion and Life and an English course. Students in Years 11 and 12 select six courses in total in each year.
YEARS 11 AND 12
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he College provides a wide range of WACE Courses which span the nine learning areas of the College: Religious Education, English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Languages, Arts, Health and Physical Education, and Technology and Enterprise. Please browse our College website on: www.corpus.wa.edu.au for further information on the subjects offered in each individual Learning Area.
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YEAR 10 In Year 10, students select subjects and can begin to specialise. Compulsory subjects in Year 10 are Religious Education, English and Mathematics. The Year 10 curriculum is semesterised to increase student choice.
vocational education and training or employment. Approximately three quarters of a cohort of students study university entry level (ATAR) courses.
Senior School ENRICHMENT AND EXTENSION
The College caters for students via a range of group and individual programmes. In Year 10, the College selects students into the Cambridge IGCSE Science course. In many Learning Areas, extension programmes and competitions are offered to students as an extension to the existing curriculum. Students in Year 10 are able to access ATAR courses normally only available to Year 11 students. Students in Year 10 are invited to participate in these courses, based on their academic performance in Year 9.
EXCELSIS CLUB The aim of the Club is to promote and reward academic excellence in the Senior School and provide a mentored supportive approach. One of the key goals of the Excelsis Club, is to encourage students to strive for excellence in everything students do at school, whilst also equipping them with skills and knowledge to
THE COLLEGE PROVIDES A WIDE RANGE OF WACE COURSES WHICH SPAN THE NINE LEARNING AREAS OF THE COLLEGE: RELIGIOUS EDUCATION, ENGLISH, MATHEMATICS, SCIENCE, HUMANITIES, LANGUAGES, ARTS, HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION, AND TECHNOLOGY AND ENTERPRISE. be utilised beyond the secondary environment. Students in Years 11 and 12 are eligible for membership should they meet the eligibility criteria. Eligibility for membership is determined after the successful completion of each semester’s report. Students who meet the criteria are invited to become members of the Excelsis Club.
PROVISION FOR STUDENT NEEDS The College has an excellent track record of students achieving outstanding results in WACE Examinations and therefore,
successfully securing a place at university, TAFE or starting on the career paths of their choice. The College offers a wide range of courses in Senior School for students on ATAR and General pathways. These courses lead to entry to tertiary institutions, TAFE and employment. The College also offers an extensive VET programme, including Workplace Learning, as well as a range of TAFE Certificate courses. Careers counselling is provided for all students to guide their decision regarding their post-secondary options.
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Middle School In the Middle School, the philosophy and action is focused on providing students with the tools to learn how to learn. The staff in the Middle School are committed to working together to ensure that all students have the opportunity to achieve to the very best of their abilities. Learning support programmes cater for those students requiring specific teaching and learning adjustments. The coordination of the Learning Support has great success at meeting the needs of the individual, including mainstream support and in smaller more focused groups. Academically, more able students are exposed to opportunities which aim to cater for the unique attributes of students requiring greater depth and breadth of the Year level curriculum offerings. The Saints Ambrose and Catherine Academic Development Programme for gifted and talented students has been implemented with the following philosophy: ‘All students regardless of race, age or gender, by virtue of their dignity as human persons, have a right to an education that is suited to their particular needs and is adapted to this ability.’ GRAVISSIMUM EDUCATIONIIS NL, 1965.(Declaration on Christian Education), POPE PAUL VI Corpus Christi College has also implemented an initiative to cater
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for the most able Mathematics students. Many boys and girls come into secondary school with a mathematical understanding beyond the scope of the programme being offered the general Year 7 cohort. It is our belief that these students, with the proper guidance, would benefit from undertaking an accelerated programme which focuses on the Year 8 Australian Curriculum. This acceleration will continue into the senior years. In addition, individualised programmes are also provided to students who require literacy or numeracy support. In summary, in the Middle School, we focus on enabling our students to be: •
Independent and interdependent learners
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Confident learners
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Resilient
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Committed in their approach to achieving their potential
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Interculturally aware
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Involved in a broad range of learning opportunities inside and outside the classroom.
The College takes pride in ensuring that all students have the opportunity to shine and give of their talents in many ways, be it ministry, service to
others, cultural pursuits (language, dance, drama, music) and sport. Students embrace with both hands the opportunities to enjoy, grow and contribute to College events. Outside of the classroom, it is almost impossible to keep up with the many and varied activities offered to students. The Year 9 Personal Project is an example of a substantial opportunity to empower every learner. Over the course of the year, after determining a project of their choice and with the guidance from their mentor, the students have the overall responsibility to complete
THE STAFF SHOW OUTSTANDING DEDICATION TO THE STUDENTS AND PARENTS OF CORPUS CHRISTI COLLEGE. THE MIDDLE SCHOOL CLASSROOMS ARE EXEMPLARY EXAMPLES OF BEST PRACTICE AND COLLABORATION.
this valuable lesson for life. This contributes enormously to the provision of an outstanding learning opportunity for our students. The staff show outstanding dedication to the students and parents of Corpus Christi College. The Middle School classrooms are exemplary examples of best practice and collaboration. Schleicher (2011) argues that: “. . . the quality of an education system cannot exceed the quality of its teachers”. The constant aim of promoting effective teaching and learning is to be commended and celebrated. We are a College that focuses on teaching practices that improve learning. Explicit emphasis is given on the learning progress of every student. We encourage professional collaboration, such as teacher observation or team teaching which helps teachers to develop new or improved approaches and reinforces change through peer feedback.
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Student Opportunities DEVELOPING SKILLS, LEADERSHIP AND CREATIVITY INDIVIDUALLY OR AS A TEAM’.
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Sport E
very student is given the opportunity to participate in and enjoy a wide range of sports played at competitive and recreational levels. Professional coaches and outstanding facilities are provided to support students as they develop their individual skills, teamwork and overall contribution to the school environment. Corpus Christi College students have long standing successes at local, State and National level in a broad range of sports such as football, netball, sailing, swimming and athletics. Team sport is a major focus and the College also has long standing success on the soccer pitch, basketball court and the cricket oval. The College is a member of the Associated and Catholic Colleges (ACC) and competes in three major Carnivals – Swimming, Cross-Country and Athletics. Middle School students also compete in the Southern Associated Schools Junior Competition. The Health and Physical Education programme also focuses on developing a student’s fitness and creating a positive attitude towards physical activity for a long and healthy life. Non-competitive activities include aerobics, dance, running club, recreational swimming and strength circuits. All students participate in regular House Sport competitions with the focus on teamwork, peer support and fun. Student Leaders manage the House teams. Students are encouraged to prove they are passionate in sport through demonstrating commitment to training, respect for their coaches and pride in their sporting achievements.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION
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ur Outdoor Education programme gives students the chance to excel in both practical and VET endorsed Certificate courses. Catering for all students with the availability of a variety of outdoor activities, it develops awareness in pursuits such as canoeing, fishing, orienteering, First Aid and living and working with others on camps and excursions. The programme promotes self-confidence, teamwork, community living and appreciation of our natural environment, and awareness of environmental concerns.
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The Arts
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he Arts continue our desire and commitment to building community within the College, encompassing all disciplines. This is achieved having introduced a number of projects, such as the Inter-House play competition, Senior School Arts Week, The Visual Art Exhibition, the Dance Showcase and Arts Camp. Many of these events offer students an opportunity to understand how all art forms are in some way connected.
The Arts form an essential element of the curriculum across all Year levels. It is divided into four main areas Dance, Drama, Music and Visual Art. Our facilities are soon to be generously extended with a new Performing Arts Centre. Currently, The James Nestor Auditorium, stage and lighting facilities area are a strong centre piece to Corpus Christi's successful Arts programme. Many National Awards are won every year as students take part in exhibitions and performances. Students who are identified as naturally gifted are nurtured, so that they can practice and extend their talents by our superb team of practicing artists, performers and musicians. The connection between disciplines, alongside the promotion of events helps us to develop students’ knowledge and awareness in a variety of cultural experiences. 22
Facilities Now and into the Future...
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he College covers seven hectares of spacious grounds with excellent educational facilities, surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens. Visitors will often refer to the peaceful ambience as they enter the campus. The current capital development programme will see the College undertake a new building programme balanced with a revitalisation of current facilities, whilst maintaining an affordable Catholic education for families from surrounding parish communities.
The Mater Christi Centre opened in 2014 and reflects not only the alignment between the building of new facilities and our mission, but the optimism surrounding the future of the College. The Cafeteria is a 21st century facility which provides modern healthy meals and beverages for students and staff. It has two entry points, one for Years 7 to 9 students and the other for our senior students. This makes for a quicker self-serve style for purchase/s which may be made with the use of the student’s SmartRider card. The Precinct provides for outdoor eating and the adjacent lawn an ideal space for audiences to enjoy performances held on the staged area, whilst the central avenue provides outdoor learning spaces. Education experiences are enhanced with the entire College now covered by wireless.
The upper floor of the Mater Christi Centre houses the Religious Education and Ministry Centre offices for staff and students. Other aspects of this project included the Memorial Reflection Area which adjoins the College Library. This is a prayerful and reflective space to remember former students who have passed away whilst enrolled at the College. The new Entrance to the College displays and honours our House Patrons. Current projects underway include construction of 11 new classrooms, six new hard courts and a new double-court Sports Centre, adjacent to the Sadler Centre. The Sports Centre will include a Fitness Centre, toilets and change rooms which will allow the current gymnasium to be rebuilt as a Performing Arts Centre. Future projects involve building specialist facilities such as Foods and Textiles, and Visual Arts classrooms, as well as a Senior Learning Centre, an indoor Aquatic Centre and a College Chapel. The College commissioned local glass artist Elizabeth Mavrick to produce the Mater Christi glass artwork which hangs in the ground floor foyer of the Mater Christi Centre. While it is not unusual to have Mater Christi “Mother of Christ” represented by Mary, the image that the community, especially the students now have, is the image of mother with the qualities we celebrate, those
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THE MATER CHRISTI CENTRE OPENED IN 2014 AND REFLECTS NOT ONLY THE ALIGNMENT BETWEEN THE BUILDING OF NEW FACILITIES AND OUR MISSION, BUT THE OPTIMISM SURROUNDING THE FUTURE OF THE COLLEGE.
of a gentle, loving and nurturing woman with the child Jesus in her arms. Mary is warmly looking up to the Religious Education and Ministry Centre offices with an inviting and pastoral gaze. The image of Mary is set in this great southern land with the Southern Cross above her. Her robes are blue as these are her traditionally recognised colours. The baby Jesus is in her arms, cradled in a way that depicts her love for her child and through Him, to us all. Mary’s saintliness is evident with the gentle stars of the Southern Cross, placed in the blue sky above that form a halo around her head. 24
Mary is set in a recognisable Western Australian landscape, the Kimberley region being the most easily identifiable of these. She is depicted above the footsteps of our Indigenous people who have walked these lands for 40,000 years. The colour, stillness and peace felt when walking along a billabong or river blank, or travelling on a long red dirt road in the Pilbara and Kimberley regions, or the desert country north of the Goldfields where the vastness, openness and diversity of the country and its people are represented, in the spiritual landscapes, depicts the Mother of Christ as walking softly through. The geological
formations and trees dotted through the landscape complete the picture of Mary ever present throughout the world, and in our own Great Southern Land. Corpus Christi College was built on land that was once a swamp and more than likely had our Indigenous people found water there, and hence, the inclusion of a water source was appropriate.
CORPUS CHRISTI COLLEGE Murdoch Drive, Bateman PO BOX 279 Willetton 6955 Western Australia Ph: (08) 6332 2500 Fax: (08) 9310 5648 Email: info@corpus.wa.edu.au Web: www.corpus.wa.edu.au