As part of Sydney Catholic Schools, we employ highly qualified and competent teachers who are accredited by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA). To continuously improve our practice, teachers also work towards the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers, from proficient teacher to lead teacher level.
The delivery of quality curriculum, pedagogy (teaching methods) and assessment is ensured by our system of schools through the provision of contemporary NESA accredited professional learning in a range of modes. Our Centres of Excellence offer online learning and external face-to-face courses, and timely, collaborative and relevant in-situ learning take place within the context of each classroom. Sydney Catholic Schools’ teachers are strongly committed to their ongoing learning, with many having completed, or are currently undertaking, postgraduate studies in areas related to curriculum, student wellbeing, special education, theology, pastoral care and leadership.
At St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School Kogarah, we place a high priority on the ongoing professional learning of all staff and on the development of a school-wide, self-reflective culture focused on delivering engaging programs and improving classroom teaching.
Teachers at St Patrick’s are rigorously challenged to cater for the diverse learning needs of all students through their professional learning experiences. The processes we have in place encourage our teachers to be lifelong learners. These include:
Collaborative Process
Teachers work together weekly with their stage partner and also termly with the members of the leadership team with a focus on professional development. Teachers throughout the year also engage in various processes including Learning Walks and Peer Observation, which allow teachers to reflect and provide feedback on their practice.
Professional Learning
Teachers meet weekly to share, discuss, learn, reflect and to develop their knowledge and skills to assist them in their professional practice. Professional Learning is aligned to Sydney Catholic Schools system priorities, as well as St Patrick’s Annual Improvement Plan.
Personalised Learning
Teachers are also encouraged to engage in courses and services that may be specific to their professional learning needs in order to enhance their pedagogy.