Integrated learning through connections, culture and Catholic values.

Here at St. Thomas our own Junior Curriculum and Pedagogy has continued to develop and grow in the space of engagement and Integration of subjects. Our students are learning and gaining valuable skills through a thematic lens that has an emphasis on a connection to our culture future-focused learning in all areas. 

Our Humanities (English, Social Studies and Religious Education), Kinesiology (Physical Education, Health and Digital Technology) and STEM staff and classes have worked hard to split the year into a theme by theme approach for each term. Propelled and implemented due to the research and feedback from our learners and their whanau/community, our connected programs have allowed high engagement with our students and use all subjects involved for the big ideas and questions. They also link massively to our school’s Catholic values and have a strong link to Maori and Pasifika learners. 

This will be the big push and focus for next year where we look to create a sustainable and culturally competent junior curriculum that engages and excites our young men.