The Action Takers
By Year 5 our girls have functional literacy and numeracy skills, are inquisitive, know how to find the answers; so, in Year 5 and Year 6, they take action. Our Units of Curiosity continue into Year 5 and 6, but with a focus on student agency and contributing to the community with their learning. Knowing how to solve a problem is one thing, but bringing it to life is another. This philosophy underpins the ESSTEAM program for these year levels.
Moving into the Senior Primary Precinct of the school highlights the importance of leadership with the older girls. Research suggests that for girls to learn how to be leaders, they need opportunities to practice leadership. By being on separate campuses, our Year 6 officials have the opportunity to hone their leadership skills by having dedicated leadership roles in the Junior School.
Our Year 6 Production is also a highlight for the final year in the Junior School. Taking advantage of the Joy Shepherd Performing Arts Centre at our Senior School campus, every single girl has a speaking part and the opportunity to perform in this world-class facility.
By senior primary, the girls have access to devices to support the teaching and learning program. A number of girls at this age also have access to mobile phones and smart watches for safety while travelling to and from school. These personal devices are signed in at the front reception at the beginning of the day and collected at the end of the day. Girls do not have access to personal devices during the school day.
At St Hilda’s, every girl is known, not just by name, but in the depth of her learning journey. Through intentional data tracking from the earliest years, we build a rich picture of each student’s progress, strengths and areas for growth. But it’s more than numbers; it’s about understanding the whole child. Academic data is paired with insights into wellbeing, engagement and social development, ensuring our staff can respond with precision and care. This approach allows us to personalise learning, provide timely support, and nurture each student’s confidence as a learner. It’s how we ensure that every girl is seen, supported, and set up for success.