The Excellence and Creativity Program at Seton Catholic College aims to provide academically and creatively talented students the opportunity to maximise their true potential through a range of in-class and extra-curricular activities. The College Vision for Teaching and Learning encapsulates the aspiration to develop student’s application of knowledge and develop deep learning through activities designed to encourage creativity and excellence within and beyond the classroom. The Vision for Teaching and Learning at Seton Catholic College is the aspiration to;
Encourage deep learning strategies which are focused on going beyond knowledge and focused on applied understanding;
Cultivate student independence through reflection; active inquiry; and opportunities to be resourceful.
In identifying excellence we refer to the following definition by Gagne. Giftedness refers to the possession of natural abilities or aptitudes at levels significantly beyond what might be expected for one’s age, in any domain of human ability (Gagne, 2003).Talented refers to achievement or performance at a level significantly beyond what might be expected at a given age (Gagne, 2003).
Fostering of students’ abilities in these areas will occur through invitations to be included in a range of activities that empowers students to immerse themselves in areas of interest, encouraging that will lead them toward self-directed learning.
Learning in and Beyond the Classroom
Seton Catholic College provides a challenging and extended curriculum in all classes through Curriculum Differentiation which permits adjustments to be made to extend talented students.
Through a range of extra-curricular activities, talented students will be offered the opportunity to work with like minds, motivating them to learn and apply 21st Century Learning skills that enable them to strive for excellence and maximise their potential. Unique opportunities will be presented to students in the programme through collaboration with expert teachers, community members and outside providers to allow students to pursue their interests and enhance skills.
Identifying and Monitoring Students
Students will be identified through a range of sources which include;
Semester Reports
Standardised Testing (MYAT, NAPLAN)
Classroom excellence
Teacher nomination
Parent nomination
Student nomination
Identification will be aimed at harnessing a high range of skills and abilities and developing gifts into talents.
The Dean of Academic Standards and the staff associated with the Excellence and Creativity Programme will monitor student attendance and performance to ensure positive learning results are achieved by the students involved in the programme.
Seton Catholic College will foster a positive learning environment to ensure success of the programme.
The Excellence and Creativity program at the College is coordinated by Mr Mark Pavy, mpavy@seton.wa.edu.au
