Connections Programme: Years 7 and 8

Head of Programme: Mr Daniel Saw. B.App Sci GradDip SecT.

The Connections Programme focuses on the care and education of students in Years 7 and 8 at Saint Stephen's College. The Programme has been established to assist these students in making a confident transition from the traditional setting and structure of the Junior School, to the greater independence required in the Senior School. The Programme draws upon contemporary research in relation to the middle years of schooling and aims to create a learning environment and curriculum that is not only focused on academic growth and achievement but gives due consideration to the developmental challenges and changes which occur during these years.

It is a priority of the Connections staff to be sensitive to the physical, social and emotional changes that the students are experiencing during this time in our attempt to help them connect, in a positive way, to their learning. Through such an approach we aim to guide students in their personal, social and academic development, laying the solid foundation upon which future successes may be attained.

At the centre of the Connections Programme is a core teaching team. This team assumes responsibility for the pastoral care and teaching of the key curriculum areas of English and SOSE or Maths and Science. In addition to this core team, students involved in the Connections Programme will also work with a variety of teachers in the areas of Music, Art, LOTE, HPD, Information Technology and their chosen electives.

The Connections Programme aims to connect students with their past, present and future learning and to equip them with skills and knowledge to assist them to reach their full potential.