UNCOVER YOUR POTENTIAL West Moreton Anglican College
PROSPECTUS
Principal’s Message
Welcome to WestMAC On behalf of the school community, I welcome you
students with a peaceful and safe learning
to West Moreton Anglican College (WestMAC)
environment, as well as convenient access to the
and invite you to discover how we can instil a love
amenities of this increasingly dynamic, growing
of learning in your child so that they can explore
regional centre. Additionally, dedicated bus
their potential.
services make the College easily accessible to Brisbane’s western suburbs; enrolment trends
West Moreton Anglican College, or WestMAC as
indicate that WestMAC is increasingly attractive
it is affectionately known, is a dynamic Prep to
to families in this corridor. The College campus
Year 12 co-educational Independent school that
includes three sub-schools: Junior (Prep to Year
promotes a balanced schooling experience. Our
6); Middle (Years 7 to 9); and Senior (Years 10 to
innovative teachers challenge students to actively
12). A community C&K Kindergarten is also located
engage in their own learning; become critical,
on campus.
creative and entrepreneurial thinkers; and to develop emotionally, socially and spiritually. We
At the heart of the College community is faith and
strive to instil a love of learning in our students so
service – both based on Anglican beliefs. Students
they can uncover their full potential.
are encouraged to value themselves and to be proud of their own and each other’s achievements.
Students also have access to and are encouraged to participate in an extensive range of enriching
Please take some time to read through this
learning activities, both within and beyond
prospectus and discover how WestMAC can
the classroom.
uncover your child’s potential so they can flourish as 21st Century Leaders.
The unique location of the College offers many advantages. WestMAC is set on a naturally
Geoff McLay
beautiful 38-hectare semi-rural campus less than
Principal
10 minutes from Ipswich’s CBD. This provides
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West Moreton Anglican College Prospectus
FAITH KNOWLEDGE SERVICE At WestMAC we provide a holistic and integrated philosophy of education, based on a Christian way of life in accordance with the principles and traditions of the Anglican Church of Australia. WestMAC grew from the vision of Reverend Canon Gavin Ott and the desire of the parishioners of St Paul’s Church to offer the families of the Ipswich region a co-educational Anglican school. All families are welcome at WestMAC regardless of religious affiliations. Faith is an integral part of everyday at WestMAC. The Chapel of the Good Shepherd is at the heart of the College, both figuratively and literally. Weekly Chapel services are held for staff and students of all year levels, and are a time for reflection, learning and celebration. Our weekly worship service for the broader community is held each Sunday during school terms. We are blessed to have a full-time Anglican Chaplain and a Chaplaincy Support Officer who provide spiritual and pastoral leadership within the College and to the broader community. Students are encouraged and expected to uphold the Anglican ethos of the College and participate in Religious and Values Education (RAVE) classes that examine the historical development, values and beliefs of Christianity – as well as contemporary social and philosophical issues – in an intellectual and reflective manner.
“But those who trust the LORD will find new strength. They will be strong like eagles soaring upward on wings; they will walk and run without getting tired. Isaiah 40:31 (Contemporary English Version)
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FAITH KNOWLEDGE SERVICE WestMAC students are challenged to become
to reach their academic potential and to be
independent learners, confident and creative
responsible for their personal learning journey.
thinkers, and informed and responsible
WestMAC expects that all staff and students will
global citizens. The College seeks to create a
be actively engaged and contribute positively to
connected learning community by nurturing
our learning community. There is a high level of
positive attitudes and relationships through the
integration across subject disciplines, year levels,
appropriate use of contemporary information and
and between our academic and extra-curricular
communication technologies.
programs, ensuring that students have the opportunity to uncover their potential.
The College provides a comprehensive Prep to Year 12 academic program which follows the
SpiritED is a strengths-based wellbeing education
Australian Curriculum and Queensland Curriculum
program unique to WestMAC. The program reflects
and Assessment Authority guidelines.
the understanding of the College that lifelong learning involves mind, body and spirit. We focus
Our academic program is carefully sequenced,
on developing the capacity of our students, staff
ensuring that each student is engaged in learning
and community to flourish in the rapidly changing
through developmentally appropriate content,
21st Century.
assessment and grading. The College promotes learning as a meaningful experience through
The six pillars of SpiritED are: success; physical
decision making, problem solving, invention,
health; immersion; responding positively;
experimental inquiry, investigation, and system
interconnectedness; and, transcendence. The
analysis. These higher-order thinking skills are
timetabled lessons are at a common time
developed in students at all year levels.
across the College to allow for collaboration throughout sub-schools, building relationships and
WestMAC offers broad academic and vocational
strengthening the WestMAC community. Students
education and training (VET) programs which
are encouraged to value themselves and to be
allow students to select pathways that motivate
proud of their own and each other’s achievements.
and inspire them to achieve their best. The Junior, Middle and Senior Schools promote an Our curriculum has been collaboratively developed
innovative and enterprising curriculum combined
by our academic staff to ensure that high quality
with high quality pastoral care, fostering a strong
teaching is focused on inspiring each student
sense of community and belonging.
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West Moreton Anglican College Prospectus
FAITH KNOWLEDGE SERVICE
Counsellors provide social support for problems that students may experience both at school and in their personal lives, such as providing comfort during times of loss and assisting them to find solutions for problems. Our Learning Support Counsellors assist students
Service to ourselves, our families and our
to fulfil their potential through various initiatives,
communities is a vital part of WestMAC’s culture.
including organisational skill development,
We are reminded in Micah 6:8 (Contemporary
language and numeracy support, guidance with
English Version) of what God wants for us:
assignments, and developing technology skills.
“see that justice is done, let mercy be your first concern and humbly obey ... [him]”. It is our prayer
Assisting students to identify their unique gifts,
at WestMAC that our community might be a place
interests and abilities are our Career Counsellors,
that reflects this call.
who also investigate the many possible career options that are available. Graduates seeking
Social justice activities are one of the significant
post-school tertiary pathways routinely attain first
ways that our community connects with the
preference offers from universities.
Christian faith principle of compassion in action. Each year, students participate in a range of
WestMAC’s Respect and Responsibility Program
activities in House groups and sub-schools to
nurtures, encourages and rewards students for
raise funds and create awareness for community
exceptional behaviour, commitment to the College
projects or charities. Past activities have included
and service to the community. Students are offered
Justice Jam day, Leukaemia Foundation Shave for
a variety of opportunities, activities and support
a Cure, Ipswich Hospital Foundation Park2Park,
mechanisms to challenge them to explore their
Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea, Valentine’s
full potential.
Day Roses and hundreds of volunteering hours. WestMAC’s pastoral care system is woven into the fabric of school life. A team of specialists are available to support students across all year levels through their schooling journey.
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“It is important that the early years of a child’s education provide a solid foundation not only academically, but also in developing the traits of resilience, persistence and compassion. Kirsten Mullan, Head of Junior School.
Junior School – Prep to Year 6 The Junior School has built a reputation for caring
and make their own assumptions. Students who
and innovative teaching. Learning is fostered in
have been exposed to critical thinking are more
an environment that encourages creative, critical
inquisitive, judicious and confident in reasoning,
thinking and where students are encouraged to
as well as open minded and analytical in
take responsibility for their learning.
their thinking.
Our Prep Program is one of the longest running
Students who are achieving beyond their age
programs in Queensland. It provides a balanced
are challenged to extend their thinking through
approach to learning by weaving play into more
a variety of enrichment tasks that recognise
formal learning experiences.
different learning styles and the existence of multiple intelligences. Students who require more
Our committed and passionate teaching and
support to reach their potential are catered for
support staff have a well-earned reputation
through a variety of intervention methods and
as dedicated, caring professionals. The Junior
dedicated specialists.
School’s educational programs place emphasis on mastering academic and physical skills in an
Junior School class teachers lead learning in
environment where student wellbeing is strongly
English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography,
promoted and supported.
Digital Technologies/Design and Technologies, Religious and Values Education (RAVE)/SpiritED
We recognise literacy and numeracy as the keys to
and Art.
academic success. Critical thinking is also a major element of the Junior School program across
Dedicated specialist teachers immerse students
all year levels. It underlies all basic elements of
in Chinese, Music (including a Year 3 String
communication and allows students to distinguish
Immersion Program and a Years 5 and 6 Band
between fact and opinion, to ask questions, make
Immersion Program), and Physical Education (PE).
detailed observations, uncover assumptions
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West Moreton Anglican College Prospectus
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“Our Middle School delivers a holistic educational program that is relevant, responsive and empowering to the developmental needs of our students. We specialise in adolescence, creating multiple opportunities for our students to experience success and flourish. John O’Sullivan Williams, Head of Middle School.
Middle School – Years 7 to 9 At WestMAC, we acknowledge that the transition to adolescence represents a time of rapid and significant development. Our award-winning Middle School offers a safe and nurturing environment, enabling students in Years 7 to 9 to make decisions and solve problems with the guidance of specialist teachers. Our staff teach and encourage our students to form a positive sense of identity, image and self‑worth. Middle Schooling fosters the growth of greater independence and self-reliance. Students are encouraged to be flexible, responsive to change, and have an aptitude for continuous improvement. We strive to instil in our students passion and enthusiasm, a need for social connectedness and independence, a curious and inquiring mindset along with a strong sense of justice. We know that the combination of a rigorous academic program and a comprehensive pastoral care system provides the basis for excellent schooling experiences that ensure the personal development of each student.
Structure for success To facilitate a positive transition from Junior to Senior School, students entering the Middle School in Years 7 and 8 will be placed into groups based around their core subjects (Maths, Science, English and Social Science). The composition of each class is based on a variety of factors such as social, emotional and academic ability with emphasis on creating a learning environment where each student can flourish. In Years 7 and 8 students have two core teachers (Maths/Science and English/Social Science) whereas in Year 9, the student experience is more akin to their Senior School counterparts. Each year level is led by a Head of Year who progresses with their assigned cohort through Years 7 to 9. It is the responsibility of the Head of Year to support the wellbeing of all students in their care. The Middle School has its own Student Wellbeing Coordinator who is responsible for the development and coordination of an effective and sustainable wellbeing program. Based on positive education research, this program provides students with a set of strategies to flourish no matter the circumstances.
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West Moreton Anglican College Prospectus
All students are placed into one of five Houses for
It is our priority to provide a contemporary
the duration of their schooling. The Houses provide
education underpinned by the principles of a
an effective avenue to build a whole of Middle
Middle School philosophy. These principles are:
School community and House spirit, a sense of belonging and healthy competition. These Houses are led by House Patrons who oversee House meetings and Interhouse activities.
• holistic learning that is student centred • teaching for understanding and higher order thinking • responsive, integrated, differentiated and
Leadership learning The leadership program encompasses all year levels within the Middle School but culminates in Year 9. All students are encouraged to develop leadership abilities through a highly strategic and targeted leadership program. The formal process of leadership begins in Year 8 where the students begin to experience leadership activities and training before undergoing the rigorous multi‑stage year-long selection process. Our Year 9 student leaders each have specific responsibilities such as academics, faith and service, the environment and cultural awareness, but are collectively responsible for achieving a student vision for the Middle School through chosen projects and activities.
negotiated curriculum • relevant, appropriate, flexible and challenging tasks • empowering students to take charge of their own learning • collaborative learning and teaching • multiple opportunities for students to experience success and to develop competence • encouraging, acknowledging and valuing student voice • strong sense of community with a relational focus • safe and supportive learning environments conducive to responsible risk-taking • seamless transitions.
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Senior School – Years 10 to 12 In the Senior School, students are starting to
are acknowledged, encouraged and affirmed.
look beyond their school years towards possible
A comprehensive pastoral program, based on
careers and post-school options. Accordingly, our
respect for the individual, is embedded throughout
focus in the Senior School is to equip students
the Senior School. The Head and Deputy Head
with the knowledge and skills to transition from
of Senior School, and Senior House Coordinators
adolescence to adulthood.
maintain an ‘open door policy’ for students and parents.
Supportive schooling
The Senior School also offers a number of
Our community shares a set of common values.
programs that address areas such as social and
Our staff teach and encourage our students to be
emotional intelligence, healthy relationships,
courteous at all times, and to respect themselves,
careers education and study skills which prepare
others, and the broader community. We encourage
students for internal and external assessment.
our students to draw inspiration from our Christian ethos and to uphold these values every day. We believe these values provide our students with a
Flexible learning
moral framework that will help them reach their
The Senior School offers a broad and diverse
full potential.
curriculum with a flexible approach to studies, particularly in Years 11 and 12. Our staff are
At WestMAC, we recognise each individual
dedicated to challenging students as well as
student, ensuring that their interests and abilities
supporting them in their endeavours.
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West Moreton Anglican College Prospectus
Students are challenged to become the best version of themselves in a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment. Paul Alcorn, Head of Senior School.
We understand that our students have a vast array of educational and personal interests that are met via our Senior School offerings. The Senior School strives to offer students a variety of high-quality pathways to facilitate the transition to further education, training or employment. Irrespective of the chosen pathway, each student is encouraged to become an independent, creative and critical thinker, possessing an enquiring mind. Year 10 students undertake the core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science and Social Science (at an extension, mainstream or support level) as well as Health and Physical Education (HPE), Religious and Values Education (RAVE) and SpiritED. They also have a number of interesting and diverse elective subjects from which to choose.
Brighter futures Our staff understand the demands of today’s rapidly changing world and we place a great deal of importance on ensuring that our students are equipped with the knowledge, skills and attributes required to flourish in the 21st Century. Our students are well-equipped to make a positive contribution to the growth of a global economy, either as highly-skilled workers or innovative entrepreneurs. Our learners are future smart, technologically savvy, curious and adaptable. We cultivate a spirit of purpose by encouraging our students to explore and nurture their own and others’ unique, God-given gifts and talents. It is our priority that students graduate from the College with the following attributes underpinned by the principles of a Senior School philosophy: • creative, innovative and courageous thinkers
In Years 11 and 12, students are offered a wide variety of accredited Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) subjects and as
• persistent and resilient when faced with setbacks and challenges
well as Vocational Education and Training (VET)
• honed problem-solving skills
subjects. Students can choose a straight academic
• confident decision makers
path, a mixture of academic and vocational subjects or a vocational education course. Opportunities also exist to gain tertiary credit
• responsible for their actions • personal capacity; continuously thinking
points while still at school, through what the QCAA
flexibly, and working either independently or
refers to as Advanced courses. Our students are
interdependently
encouraged to take advantage of courses like these which are offered by a range of universities.
• technologically savvy • informed and productive global citizens.
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Global perspectives International Program
Short-term study opportunities
WestMAC prides itself on its internationalisation
Our short-term and study tour programs are
and cultural diversity. The College welcomes
very popular with individuals and groups seeking
students from all around the world. Our
an exciting way to improve English Language
international students’ diverse backgrounds
skills while immersing themselves in Australian
enrich the WestMAC community and provide
culture. We offer a range of study options
opportunities for our community to appreciate
including: English Language studies; immersion
different cultures.
in mainstream classes; and Australian studies and cultural experiences with excursions to theme
For international students, our balanced schooling
parks and famous tourist spots. These programs
experience offers a pathway into a rewarding
can vary from one to six weeks.
career or to complete additional study at university. We recognise that making the decision to study abroad is an important decision for an
Long-term study programs
individual and their family. As well as gaining a
WestMAC offers extended study programs from
quality education, students are challenged with
one term to one year. Programs are designed to
living in a new environment and learning about a
suit the needs and interests of individuals or study
different culture.
tour groups.
English Language Program
Homestay accommodation
The College offers an inclusive and nurturing
While studying at WestMAC, international students
learning environment with high quality pastoral
can enjoy authentic cultural immersion through our
care. The NEAS accredited ELICOS Centre
Homestay Program. The Homestay Coordinator
ensures that the College can offer an individualised
assesses all accommodation to ensure that rooms
transition from English language studies into an
are appropriately furnished, well ventilated and
academic study program.
secure. Homestay families are educated on cultural
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differences that may exist. Students are encouraged The English Language Program focuses on the
to become part of their homestay family and often
four macro skills of reading, writing, listening and
make friendships that last a lifetime.
speaking. Each language skill is assessed against the National Languages and Literacy Institute of
All host families in the Homestay Program undergo
Australia (NLLIA) ESL Band Scales.
a rigorous selection process including a national police check. This process is conducted by the Queensland Commission for Children and Young People. Host families also undergo orientation that includes an ethics document and signed acceptance of the College’s Homestay Policies.
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West Moreton Anglican College Prospectus
Living in Ipswich • Ipswich is located in South East Queensland, Australia. To the east is Queensland’s capital city, Brisbane, and to the west are the rural and
At WestMAC, international students enjoy: • Government accredited English Language courses
agricultural areas of the Brisbane, Lockyer and Fassifern Valleys. The city is ideally positioned
• Experienced and culturally-sensitive
on the national road network – approximately
postgraduate qualified specialist
40 minutes’ drive from Brisbane, one hour drive
TESOL teachers
from the Gold Coast and 60 minutes’ drive from
• Smaller and flexible ESL classes to address
domestic and international air and sea ports. • Ipswich has a population of 180,000 people,
individual student needs • Tutors and academic counsellors providing
enjoys a subtropical climate, and is a safe,
assistance with and advice on subject selection
friendly and multicultural city. Residents come
and academic progress
from 115 different ethnic backgrounds, speaking 84 languages.
• Individualised timetables to suit each student • A managed Homestay Program providing quality accommodation and pastoral care • On-campus Health Centre and Registered Nurses during school hours • Preparation for and assistance with university entrance • Dedicated International Student Support Services staff.
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National English Language Teaching Accredited Scheme. English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students
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Personal growth WestMAC students have access to and are
is modified for age appropriate diversity and
encouraged to participate in, an extensive
complexity. For example, Prep students enjoy a
range of enriching extra-curricular experiences
‘Late Night at School’, Year 1 students participate
including sport, outdoor education, music, dance,
in a Sleepover, and Year 8 students camp out on
international study tours and a range of activities.
the campus grounds. Some year levels are also
These opportunities foster personal development,
involved in off-site outdoor education programs
cultivate leadership skills, enhance team-building
that are facilitated by external service providers, in
and develop effective communication.
collaboration with College staff.
It is through these opportunities that students
Outdoor education activities include, but are
can develop new friendship groups, become
not limited to: rock climbing, abseiling, mountain
involved in other areas of interest, and develop
biking, orienteering, canoeing and archery.
lifelong learning skills that prepare them for their
During their schooling, students will experience
future endeavours.
a range of different outdoor education settings such as national parks, outback adventures and
Outdoor Education
coastal environments.
The College’s Outdoor Education Program
WestMAC values outdoor education as an
encompasses the whole school community
important part our balanced schooling experience.
and focuses on leadership, problem solving
Learning beyond the classroom is important in
and personal development. Outdoor Education
each student’s journey because it: challenges
provides opportunities for students at WestMAC
individuals physically and intellectually; enhances
to uncover their full potential through a range of
decision making skills; promotes teamwork, loyalty,
outdoor experiences.
and general problem solving competencies; and stretches students to their limits. Together,
As students transition through their schooling,
these skills increase students’ ability to overcome
the nature of outdoor educational experiences
challenges and develop resilience – and, it’s fun!
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West Moreton Anglican College Prospectus
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West Moreton Anglican College Prospectus
Sport At WestMAC we encourage participation from every student in a range of sporting activities offered at the College, many of which are included in The Associated Schools (TAS) sporting competition. The College’s sporting facilities are extensive. There is a heated swimming pool, three ovals, cricket nets, turf and synthetic cricket wickets, and multi-purpose courts for tennis, basketball, netball and volleyball.
TAS Sport WestMAC is very proud to be a part of The Associated Schools (TAS) sporting competition.
In addition to weekly sport, TAS Carnivals are also scheduled to showcase swimming, cross country and athletics amongst participating schools: • Term 1: TAS Swimming Carnival
Students in Years 7 to 12 take part in the competition. TAS aims to promote and conduct various forms of interschool activities to foster a spirit of fellowship, sound educational practice and mutual support among member schools.
• Term 2: TAS Cross Country Carnival • Term 3: TAS Athletics Carnival Junior TAS Sport Students in Years 4 to 6 take part in the Junior TAS
The following sports are currently played in
competition. Participation is the focus of the sports
each Trimester:
played in this competition. The following sports are
• Trimester 1: TAS Boys’ Cricket and Volleyball, TAS Girls’ Basketball and Tennis • Trimester 2: TAS Boys’ Rugby Union and Tennis,
played in each term: • Term 1: Junior TAS Swimming, Cricket, Hockey • Term 2: Junior TAS Cross Country, Netball,
TAS Girls’ Netball and Hockey • Trimester 3: TAS Boys’ Soccer and Basketball, TAS Girls’ Volleyball and Touch Football
Rugby Union • Term 3: Junior TAS Athletics, Basketball, Soccer • Term 4: Junior TAS Tennis, Touch Football The Junior TAS competition encourages all levels of ability in students to be nurtured and developed.
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Performance Arts - Music WestMAC students can undertake weekly individual music tuition lessons in singing, most orchestral and band instruments, piano, guitar, bagpipes, and music theory. All students are encouraged to participate in an ensemble that is suited to their level of ability. Ensembles available to students include: Choral Groups
Small Instrumental Groups
Large Instrumental Groups
• Piccolo Voci
• Junior Strings
• Big Band
• Bella Voce
• WestMAC Strings
• Performance Band
• Mezzo Voce
• Cello Consort
• Symphonic Band
• Chorale
• Flute Choir
• Concert Band
• Jazz Vocal
• Guitar Ensemble
• Brass Ensemble
• Percussion Ensemble
Performance Arts - Dance
Extra-curricular Program
• Junior School Dance Crew
• Australian Air Force Cadets
• Dance Company
• Cattle Show Team
• Dance Troupe
• Chinese Club • Debating • Environmental Committee • Equestrian Team • Friends of the Farm • Public Speaking
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West Moreton Anglican College Prospectus
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Locked Bag 8004 Ipswich Qld 4305 Keswick Road Karrabin Qld 4306 T (07) 3813 4555 F (07) 3813 4566 www.wmac.com.au CRICOS: 01329M ABN: 28 410 978 058