St Joseph’s College Echuca has unveiled its flagship School of Excellence program to maintain it’s standing as a place of learning and endeavour in the community.
St Joseph’s College principal Anne Marie Cairns said the School of Excellence is a set of educational programs designed to enhance and enrich students’ academic experience through a multi-faceted approach focusing on staff and student skills and proficiencies.
“Our new School of Excellence program is not a replacement for our core curriculum, rather an addition to it, which will provide students with greater opportunities to pursue their passions, fulfil their potential, and achieve overall excellence,” she said.
“The program will consist of six pillars of excellence aimed to challenge our students academically and physically in the promotion of whole person growth.”
The six pillars of excellence include:
- Arts Academy (visual and performing)
- Sports Academy
- Academic Enrichment Program
- Indigenous Engagement Program
- Student Recognition Program
- Staff Micro-credential Program
Director of Programs Thomas Dicker said the Arts and Sports Academies would be the first to launch in 2025.
“These two dynamic new programs are designed to amplify students’ school experience by aligning their passions with our curriculum and showcasing our commitment to nurturing our students’ individual talents and fostering their personal growth,” he said.
“Our Arts Academy is designed for aspiring performing and visual artists, and offers unique opportunities to nurture their artistic talents, foster their curiosity and support their creative journey.
“Our Sports Academy is designed to engage students who are passionate about sport and playing at a high level, in theory and practical-based learning objectives to enhance their natural ability.
“Most importantly, our academies will focus on whole person growth to develop outstanding young people who display exemplary behaviour, excellent teamwork and leadership skills, and are motivated to be the best they can be.
“Because students who feel fulfilled in their studies and supported in their goals can achieve incredible things.”
In 2025 the academies will be open to Year 8 and 9 students via application.
A selection of senior students will also be invited to join the programs and will benefit from a personalised learning plan designed to help balance academic responsibilities and passions.
From 2026, the academies will be open to students across all year levels.
An information night for students and families will be held on Tuesday, July 23, at thei Brigidine campus from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.