By Yasemin Talat
Salesian College Rupertswood will officially open the doors to its newest campus next week.
Next Tuesday’s opening will mark the start of a new chapter for the college’s year 9 students.
Deputy principal of Mission and Faith, Dr Michael Grace, said the separate learning centre represented an exciting, new and different approach.
“Modern academic scientific research on the educational needs of young people and their learning shows that at around year 9 students can disengage with their learning,” Dr Grace said. “And we are looking at ways to keep them engaged.”
Dr Grace said it was important for the college to create a specialised curriculum for the year 9 students and address their unique learning styles.
The building is integrated with the farming precinct of the college and includes the original shearing shed. It’s an open gathering place where there is a farmhouse-style kitchen and science lab.
Dr Grace said the students would be engaged in hands-on learning, including working on the farm as well as other programs taught outside the classroom.
The students will also have one teacher who will deliver all core subjects.
“It’s so they will be wanting to come to school and willing to learn, which is what it’s all about,” Dr Grace said.
The campus, which is named after Salesian Sister Mary Mazzarello, will mark the first time the Salesian Sisters have been incorporated in the school.
Salesian nuns will attend the opening of the Mazzarello campus and were excited to see the founder of their religious chamber honoured, Dr Grace said.
