Dear Students and Families

Blackfriars Priory School is a Catholic Dominican school for boys that promotes the spiritual, intellectual, physical and social development of each member of the school community. We are committed, in co-operation with parents, to engage students in an educational experience within the context of a Catholic Dominican community which is fulfilling and rewarding . Our vision is to deliver academic excellence in boys’ education through the provision of a transformative, vibrant and reflective learning community that equips and inspires our students to confidently and successfully participate as men of integrity in a changing world.

Society has rapidly evolved in the last century and the needs of learners have changed. Eminent educator, Michael Fullan refers to the “6Cs of Education, 21st Century skills for Student and Society Well-Being”. In Fullan’s view the challenges of the 21st Century can
only be met by young people who are formed through character education, citizenship, communication, critical thinking and problem-solving, collaboration and creativity. In other words, holistic education with the student at the centre of learning.

St Dominic regarded study as the activity by which we discover the presence of God’s actions in our lives and search for the truth. Today the goal of study is not just an accumulation of facts and figures, but sharing in knowledge and wisdom so that we can serve and improve our local and global communities. It means an education that promotes the development of a deep understanding of self and of the complex nature of our local, national and global environments. Therefore, one of the most important responsibilities of this and future generations is to build a just and viable global order, where all people have a sense and belief of true value and can live together in peace and mutual respect.

The Curriculum Guide assists students in making choices that will broaden and deepen their educational experience. Subject selection is very important in shaping future pathways and links between school, further study and the world of work. The information has been prepared to assist students and families in considering the range of course options available to students at Blackfriars Priory School.

Young people have the power to change the world through study pathways that will engage them in their life now and prepare them for a future beyond school. A learning journey that engages their hearts and minds to become self-directed learners, compassionate leaders, and responsible and active citizens in our community. Education is no longer about preparing students for a specific career, it is about teaching students lifelong values, discipline, and the ability to explore new ideas and to think independently. Students need to develop their creativity, think strategically, communicate astutely, collaborate and apply creative algorithms to address complex problems. These skills will help them drive
and empower their own careers in a competitive global marketplace.

21st-century skills that are required today need to be learned through a curriculum which is interdisciplinary, integrated and project-based. The curriculum needs to be taught in a way where students understand the relevance of the subject matter and have the freedom to make a range of choices in their learning and assessment tasks. At Blackfriars Priory School, in conjunction with our teaching professionalism, we offer our pastoral support and encouragement to the boys on their journey to become men of faith and integrity, and people of hope, working for a positive future.

Through discernment and the guidance of parents and teachers it is my hope that all students will successfully map their learning pathway through to the completion of SACE. I pray that each student will realise their personal hopes and ambitions, therefore, achieving their full potential.

If you have any questions regarding the information contained in the Curriculum Guide, please feel welcome to ask the relevant staff for assistance.

David Ruggiero
Principal