The way that our specialist program is presented in the early stages of our school development will depend upon enrolments and staffing. We will offer all specialist areas, however, they will be presented as three combined specialist areas:
- PE- Physical Education
- Visual Arts
- STEM- Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
- LOTE (Italian)
All of which cover our specialist components listed below.
Health and Physical Education
Physical Education at Mary Queen of Heaven is an important component of the school’s curriculum, and being active is emphasised by all staff. Our Health and Physical Education program focuses on health, safety, wellbeing and physical activity. We offer the children the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that are contemporary, relevant, challenging, enjoyable and promote confidence, co-operation and sportsmanship. Each child from foundation through to Year Six participates in weekly Physical Education lessons. In addition, students are provided with opportunities to participate in various events including Cross Country Carnivals, Athletics Day and other whole school initiatives.
Visual Arts
The Visual Arts program at Mary Queen of Heaven nurtures and promotes inventiveness and creativity in a fun, challenging and stimulating learning environment. Students are engaged in activities where they can explore a wide range of media, materials and equipment whilst developing a range of skills, techniques and processes, including creative problem solving, artistic perception and expression and personal expression and communication.
STEM
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics; We apply a developmental approach to learning in our STEM program. By carefully scaffolding experiences, we aim to help students develop fundamental skills and dispositions in problem-solving, design, critical thinking, risk-taking, perseverance and curiosity. This is done through coding, robotics, programming and engineering challenges, which all have a strong focus on collaboration and teamwork.
Language other than English (LOTE)
Mary Queen of Heaven offers a Language other than English (Italian) from Prep to Year 6. Our Language Program encompasses conversational language as well as learning about culture, customs, history and geography. The acquisition of an additional language and associated intercultural skills is critical to the development of children, both intellectually and emotionally. Languages prepare our students to be responsible and engaged members of our community, and to look outward as active and informed citizens of the world.
