Gleeson College Prospectus
This prospectus outlines the educational offerings and opportunities at Gleeson College.
gleeson gleeson MAR 2019 ISSUE 03 PROSPECTUS 2023/4
In 2023 Gleeson College enters its 35th year of providing excellent education in the Northeast of Adelaide and has now fully incorporated Year 7 into secondary education, growing to almost 900 students. It is increasingly evident that secondary schooling provides a journey for students which takes them from the dependency of their early middle years to the search for personal excellence in their senior years and finally to the development of a life-long educational foundation as they venture forth into the world. The journey requires a metaphorical compass which our college community will provide. It is our hope that as the journey takes shape, student agency allows our young people to take hold of the compass and navigate their own path through secondary education and into society at large. Developing thriving people of service with integrity and a love for others and all of creation is the first half of the equation (the heart); preparing each person for lifelong learning and to have a sense of purpose in the world (the mind) completes it. And so we move into the next part of our future together on this journey of the heart and expedition of the mind. Joe Corbo, Principal
At Gleeson College all members of our community aim to fulfil the College’s Vision through our Ten Core Values. They have been developed through community consultation, and with reference to Archbishop Gleeson’s letter to the College, the College Vision and Mission Statements, and the College Song. They provide the foundation to all that we do as students, staff and parents within our Catholic educational community. the GLEESON 10
... is to fulfil our vision by ensuring that at Gleeson College: • the promotion of faith, the love of God, the person of Jesus and service to others are central to the education of the whole person • we provide a safe, supportive and welcoming environment • the children, parents and staff work together, listen to and care for one another with confidence and trust • we cater for individual differences in the pursuit of excellence so that personal success can be achieved by all Gleeson College is a faith-filled community which provides its members with the opportunity to discover, develop and use their God-given talents and abilities in the service of others. VISION MISSION
Archbishop James Gleeson Gleeson College is named after our patron, Archbishop James Gleeson. Gleeson College Motto: ‘With One Heart’ Archbishop James Gleeson’s letter to the Gleeson College Community – 1989 I thank you for the beautiful way you have involved me in the life and mission of your College. In choosing my family name for your College, I believe you have chosen a living tradition of commitment to education and especially to Catholic Education. When I visited Gleeson College, I was deeply touched by your wonderful spirit of enthusiasm. I hope that this community of students, teachers, family and friends will develop a living tradition of a school, which is centred on the Gospels of Jesus Christ. As a community, you will come to recognise the presence of the Lord in one another and to grow in deep reverence for the dignity of every person who touches your lives in every way. In the pleasant setting of your College amid the hills and valleys, you are surrounded by so much beauty. Through the life of your College, I am sure you will be inspired and will also inspire the other communities of your combined campus, with a deep appreciation of God’s creation and its meaning in our lives. In my life as priest and bishop, I served for ten years on the Pontifi cal Council, Cor Unum. That name, “Cor Unum” meaning “One Heart”, became very precious to me. I hope that you will be truly of “One Heart”. For this will mean that every person involved in the College Community will be united deeply in the Church as brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ. It will mean that your College will reach out to the community of Australia and to the whole world and particularly to those who suffer and are in need of any kind. I leave with you this hope of mine: that Gleeson College will always be of “One Heart” in every aspect of its life and mission. Thank you for accepting me into your hearts and lives. Archbishop James Gleeson Photo at left: The Offi cial Opening of Gleeson College on 30th July 1989.
Gleeson College is a Catholic co-educational secondary school that commenced in 1989 with 32 students in Years 8 and 9. In 2023, Gleeson has grown to support almost 900 students each year. Gleeson College is named after the Emeritus Archbishop of Adelaide, the very Reverend James Gleeson. Archbishop Gleeson made a major contribution to Catholic Education in South Australia, first as an inspector of schools and later as Director of Catholic Education. Throughout his long and distinguished career, Archbishop Gleeson had a strong personal commitment to the pursuit of excellence, justice and peace and we believe that the students of Gleeson College continue to strive for those goals in our Catholic tradition. Archbishop Gleeson served on the Pontifical Council ‘Cor Unum’ (One Heart) from 1971 to 1981. This council aimed to develop effective methods of enabling the people of developing countries to meet their needs in the desperate struggle for their right to live in dignity, justice and peace. It is our hope that the students of Gleeson College will continue to work for justice and peace in the tradition of Archbishop Gleeson, hence our College motto, “With One Heart.” The intertwining crosses of our College logo symbolise our sharing with Christ in a reflection of community, and our relationships with Partner Primary Schools and our One+ Campus schools. As a relatively young school of 35 years, Gleeson College holds values and traditions established at the inception of the College, influenced by the Charism of Archbishop James Gleeson, yet constantly seeks innovative transformation as the education landscape changes for 21st Century learners. The parents and staff of the College see Gleeson as a community-oriented school. Students, parents and staff work in partnership on our common desire for excellence for every individual and an opportunity to experience a faith journey, rich in the Catholic traditions and practices. GLEESON COLLEGE ‘WITH ONE HEART’
At Gleeson College we offer a Pastoral Care ‘Vertical House’ structure, which creates a true Middle Years (Years 7- 9) and Senior Years (Years 10-12) structure across four Houses. Each House has its own identity and traditions. Pastoral responsibility for students is overseen by their Care Group Teacher and House Leader, led by the Assistant Principal of Student Development. House identity and camaraderie supports Sport Carnivals, Fundraising, Pastoral Care programs, Student Leadership and Gleeson Day events and have added much to the identity, sense of belonging and care for our students. Where possible, students will maintain the same Care Group teacher in Years 7, 8 and 9, then a second Care Group teacher for their senior secondary time in Years 10-11. In Year 12, students move to the Micah Senior Learning Centre and are assigned a ‘mentor’ teacher. The Vertical House structure is designed to enhance our Pastoral Care of students and allow a closer monitoring of their academic progress at the same time. It is important to note that this structure is for Pastoral Care only. The remainder of the academic program and all year level events take place in year level groups. PASTORAL CARE ‘HAPPY STUDENTS LEARN WELL’
The names of the four College Houses reflect the history associated with the development of Gleeson College and the Golden Grove area. GLEESON COLLEGE HOUSES Damiani House is named after Mrs. Jenny Damiani, who was the first chairperson of the Gleeson College Board and of the interim Board that established Gleeson College. Hughes House is named after Fr Don Hughes OMI, who was Parish Priest of St David’s Parish, Tea Tree Gully, when Gleeson College was established in 1989. Fyfe House is named after Sr. Margaret Fyfe, a Brigidine nun, who worked with Catholic families in the area when it was still rural. McDonald House is named after John McDonald, Director of Catholic Education, who was instrumental in the concept of a shared campus.
In Year 7, all students study Faith & Living, English, Humanities and Social Sciences, Mathematics, Science, Health and Physical Education (PE), The Arts, Technologies and Italian or Japanese. Two key teachers work closely together with one class to deliver the core subjects of English, Humanities and Social Sciences, Mathematics and Science. Students are exposed to all of The Arts (Visual Arts, Dance, Drama and Music) and Technologies (Food and Textiles, Design, Digital) through the course of the year. In Health and PE, students have the option to participate in either of the College’s Specialist Sports Programs; Netball or World Football. The Year 8 pattern mimics that of Year 7, continuing the Learning Team structure for their four core subjects. Students specialise in Arts and Technologies by selecting their preferred subjects within these areas. In Health and PE, students have the additional option of participating in Women’s AFL. In Year 9, all students study Faith & Living, English, Humanities and Social Sciences, Mathematics, Science and Health & PE. Students then choose four semesters of subjects from a suite of exciting new electives such as Digital Design, Innovation, STEM Earth and Space, Jewellery Design and more, along with our regular electives in The Arts, Technologies and Languages learning areas. CURRICULUM MIDDLE YEARS
KEY CAPABILITIES We live in a world where life-long learning is paramount to fostering and developing capable, skilled people who are able to use their talents and abilities to their fullest potential. Through the Key Capabilities, Gleeson College helps nurture and shape thriving people, capable learners and leaders for God’s world. The seven Key Capabilities are embedded throughout the breadth of our curriculum, underpinning everything we do, to ensure our students develop the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to thrive in a rapidly changing and complex world. As part of this process, students will be asked to continuously reflect on their progress and themselves as learners, on the Key Capabilities continua.
A sample Learner Profile: The Key Capabilities continua acknowledges that in order to thrive, students must involve the mind, heart and body. Student engagement with the capabilities and explicit evidencing against the capabilities allows for the formation of an individualised Learner Profile for Middle Years students. This profile captures all aspects of student growth and learning, their passions and individuality, as an overlay to their academic report. In senior years it complements their SACE results and ATAR. It communicates characteristics that, when worked toward, will help students be globally minded, supporting holistic student development throughout their College journey. In Term 4, students and caregivers are invited to a ‘Learner Conversation’ in place of an optional Semester 2 Parent Teacher Interview. Students present their Learner Profile and evaluate their development of the Key Capabilities with their parent and a key teacher or leader. Such student-led conversations foster greater student agency, responsibility, self-reflection, goal-setting and leadership skills.
CURRICULUM SENIOR YEARS In Year 10, all students study four core subjects (English, Mathematics, Science, and Faith & Living) and the Personal Learning Plan, which contributes 10 credit points, at Stage 1 level, towards the SACE. They also study one term of History and one term of Health & PE. Students can then choose another four subjects from the list of subjects offered. Numerous opportunities are provided for students to accelerate and commence their Stage 1 and 2 studies early, pursue VET courses, and/or cross-campus study. Year 11 students study the equivalent of seven full year subjects (or 14 semester subjects). This is 140 credits towards the SACE. Stage 1 students must study: Faith & Living, Research Project, English (Literacy) for two semesters and a least one semester of Mathematics (Numeracy). In addition to these compulsory requirements, students choose their remaining eight subjects from any other subjects offered at Stage 1 or 2 level. Year 12 students study the equivalent of four full year subjects. Together with Faith & Living, this means a total of 90 credits towards their SACE. The Research Project worth 10 credits may be studied at Stage 2 level, if not previously completed in Stage 1. It is possible for a senior student in certain circumstances to select one subject offered at one of the other schools on the campus. This would be negotiated, for example, if a difficult combination of subjects did not meet the Gleeson line structure. A range of creative subjects are offered in the senior years, such as Criminology, or through Integrated Learning at Stage 1 and/or 2 level, such as Automotive Studies, Language and Culture Studies, and Sports Studies. More information on current curriculum offerings can be found in our College Curriculum Handbooks at http://www.gleeson.sa.edu.au/curriculum.html
As a community, we strongly believe that Pastoral Care and our Catholic Faith are at the heart of all we do, and as such, there are five lessons per week dedicated to Religious Education, personal development and Pastoral Care in each year level. The application of a revised approach incorporates feedback from students, parents and staff alike to broaden the scope and scale of what Religious Education looks like at Gleeson College, as well as implementing the redesigned Catholic Education South Australia Crossways curriculum. Faith & Living is a subject that allows students to develop their skills and dispositions across spiritual, academic and practical domains, to explore ideas and concepts in Religious Education, personal development, global citizenship, ecological awareness and responsibility, as well as life lessons in authentic contexts and situations.
In 2022 we introduced The Resilience Project to our students, staff and families to further reinforce our core belief that ‘Happy Students Learn Well’. The Resilience Project: ‘Finding Happiness through Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness (GEM)’ has been fully embraced throughout the whole College community. Students formally undertake these GEM lessons as part of their Faith and Living studies, however in our first year of the program we saw many of the program’s key messages permeate other learning areas and our daily lives. The Resilience Project
The Thomas Learning Centre (TLC) provides 1:1 and small group support to students with learning needs. Our specialist team of teachers and education support officers assist students in this newly refurbished space, offering targeted improvement programs and assessment scaffolding and assistance. At Gleeson College we recognise that lifelong learning can take many forms, and that a university pathway is only one of many aspirational options available to students, therefore our Pathways team has a wealth of career guidance experience and work closely with students to maximise their success, no matter their pathway post-school. We help students find flexibility in their timetable to study VET courses, both onsite and offsite, in areas such as Construction, Fitness, Business, Health & Beauty, Photography, Hospitality and more. Additional support includes: - Homework Club - Maths Help - Literacy and Numeracy Support - Stretch Program: an extra-curricular program for gifted learners FLEXIBLE LEARNING & PATHWAYS A COLLEGE FOR EVERYONE
In 2018 we opened our refurbished Faulkner Building to cater to our new Year 7 students. As the pilot school for Year 7 transitioning to High School for Catholic Education South Australia it has been wonderful to see our young students thrive in this new space. In 2020 we opened the Micah Centre, our new hub for Year 12 students. The Micah Centre is a fantastic facility which has reshaped the Year 12 experience at Gleeson College, allowing students to build further independence in their studies thanks to a huge range of flexible study spaces and learning environments. Our newest Master Plan sees exciting facilities and improvements planned including an extended, refreshed and upgraded canteen facility and our next signature build, ‘The Hub’. This Hub will provide an intimate gathering space for year level Masses, small concerts and performances, and also enable new food and hospitality classrooms to be developed. FACILITIES INCLUDING OUR NEW ‘MICAH CENTRE’
SPECIALIST PROGRAMS SPORT Our Specialist Netball and World Football p rograms allow students with a passion for these sports to train and develop under the skilled guidance of elite coaches. Students attend these programs in place of regular Health and PE, for either first semester (general) or both semesters (advanced). Program Objectives • To improve playing performance of players in Years 7-10 • To excel in State Knockout and Saturday morning competitions • To promote an elite sport culture by providing improved coaching and development programs - identifying/coaching ‘patterns of play’ • To adopt best practice in all areas of program development, administration and management • To develop an understanding of how players learn and related issues in sports science Program Structure Gleeson College’s Specialist Sports Programs focus on: • Individual ball handling training • SAQ - Speed, Agility and Quickness training (quick feet movement improved coordination and fast twitch training) • Playing skills • Team related tactical knowledge - Group plays, tactics and communication • Basic Umpiring Clinic • Fitness - Aerobic, speed and agility testing • Pre-match preparation skills including dietary requirements and post-match recovery techniques Program Pathways Successful completion of the course will provide opportunities to pursue: • Careers in Semi-Professional Netball • Coaching • Umpiring • Study in SACE pathway of Physical Education or Certificate III in Fitness (delivered at Gleeson College) • Work in Sport and Recreation
SPECIALIST PROGRAMS THE ARTS Our Music and Dance p rograms allow students to continue their studies of advanced music or dance performance and theory in Years 7-9. Program Structure • Students may elect in Years 7-9 to study ‘Specialist Music’ or ‘Specialist Dance’ to advance their theory and performance (solo and ensemble) skills • Students have the opportunity to participate in a range of performances, such as, Creative Arts Evenings, Lunchtime Concerts, the biennial Musical and Generations in Jazz, Balaklava Eisteddfod, and the Catholic Schools Music Festival
EXTRA-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS SPORT Gleeson College believes sport is an excellent vehicle for students to develop a number of core values which align with the College’s ethos, therefore we aim to provide all students with the opportunity to participate in a range of sporting activities. Students are encouraged to play sport for Gleeson College and/or local community teams. Gleeson College participates in the Independent Schools’ Sports Association, Catholic Schools’ Girls Sports Association, and Statewide Knockout competitions throughout the year. Below is a list of the different sports offered by the College. College Athletics Carnival (Term 1) Catholic Co-Ed Swimming and Athletics Carnivals (Term 1) Catholic Girls Swimming and Athletics Carnivals (Term 1) SATURDAY MORNING SPORT > TERMS 1 & 4 Boys: Girls: Badminton Badminton Cricket Basketball Tennis Softball Volleyball Tennis SATURDAY MORNING SPORT > TERMS 2 & 3 Boys: Girls: AFL Football AFL-W Basketball Netball Hockey Volleyball World Football World Football KNOCKOUT SPORT > TERMS 1-4 AFL Football AFL-W Basketball Netball Cricket Tennis Futsal (5-a-Side Indoor Soccer) World Football
EXTRA-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS MUSIC Participating in music ensembles is another excellent avenue for students to contribute to their College community and develop core values which align with the College’s ethos. A wide range of ensembles are offered in which students may participate, as well as music competitions, our biennial musical, and more! Our mixed ensembles allow students from Years 7 through 12 to perform and practice together, offering great mentoring and bonding opportunities. Below is a list of the different music ensembles and/or events the College typically offers each year. Annual Performances Catholic Schools Music Festival Open Evenings Primary Schools’ Roadshows Creative Arts Evenings Presentation Evening Balaklava Eisteddfod Ensembles Instrumental/Mixed: Choral: Junior Rock Band Concert Choir Senior Rock Band General Choir Stage Band Concert Band Music Ministry Band Biennial Offerings College Musical Generations in Jazz Performing Arts Camp
EXTRA-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS STEM and Other Gleeson College runs a variety of other extra-curricular programs subject to student interest each year. A popular program is STEM Society, a lunchtime offering which allows students to explore all things STEM. Other extra-curricular programs typically offered include: Robotics/Lego League Anime Club Chess Club Sharemarket Game Lunchtime Dance Club
KEY INFORMATION & LOGISTICS Enrolment, Transition & Uniform By enrolling at Gleeson College, families agree to abide by our Uniform Policy. The correct College uniform must be worn on all occasions when attending the College or representing the College. During Care Group period at the beginning of the day, students are required to present themselves in full uniform, including blazers in winter. At the end of the day, it is the student’s responsibility to ensure they leave College grounds appropriately attired. Please visit our website for full information regarding our College Uniform: https://www. gleeson.sa.edu.au/college-uniform.html
Getting to and from Gleeson Currently, four Private Bus charters service our Gleeson Community, offering families the security and peace of mind in regards to their child/ren’s travel to and from school at an affordable cost. All four routes are run by Kanga Coachlines, who offer a Premium Corporate Fleet of buses which are fully seat-belted and air conditioned for safe, all-year comfort. Ticketing is now managed via the BusMinder App (see ‘Getting to Gleeson’ link below), allowing students to tap on and off with ease, setup auto-recharge, and more. Head to our Gleeson website page ‘Getting to Gleeson’ to view our Bus Service Routes & Maps: http://www.gleeson.sa.edu.au/getting-to-gleeson.html For further information and bus timetables for Adelaide Metro bus services, telephone Adelaide Metro on 8210 1000 or visit their website: www.adelaidemetro.com.au Gleeson College Expectations & Policies We encourage you to visit our Gleeson website to view all our College expectations and policies at: http://www.gleeson.sa.edu.au/college-expectations---policies.html Enrolment and Transition Process Gleeson College works closely with our Partner Primary Schools to engage parents and staff in planning successful communication and transition strategies. Students also engage in orientation visits and we provide a variety of parent engagement opportunities. Year 7 students also begin the school year a day before other year levels, which provides additional time to become familiar with their surroundings and the workings of the College. We recommend the submission of an enrolment application no later than when your primary school aged child is in Year 4.
FEES & FINANCE Camp/Retreat Fees Students in Years 7, 9, 11 and 12 participate in a three-day Retreat/Camp. The cost covers transport, accommodation, meals and all activities. Additional Charges The costs of activities such as the World Football and Netball Programs, Outdoor Education, Doorways to Construction, Certificate III in Fitness, Instrument Tuition, Revision Guides (Year 12), subject specific workbooks, and some Design and Technology projects, are invoiced to your account. Vocational Education and Training (VET) Fees Students studying VET courses are responsible for payment of VET fees, once enrolment is approved. The College subsidises a portion of VET fees. Withdrawal or non-completion of the course will result in the full cost of the course payable and charged to families. *Low Income Fee (School Card discount) The scheme is conducted by the Department for Education (DfE) and provides financial assistance towards the cost of educational expenses for full time students. For approved School Card recipients, the College will reduce the annual ‘full fee’ by 50%. All School Card families must complete an application each year with the forms and eligibility criteria in January. The discount is credited once the College receives confirmation of eligibility from DfE. Application and Admission Fee A non-refundable Application Fee of $50 is payable by families upon lodgement of enrolment for each student. A non-refundable Admission Fee of $155 is payable upon acceptance of offer of placement to secure your child/ren’s position. Fees Schedule
FEES & FINANCE Overdue Accounts Where accounts become overdue and there has been no correspondence or communication with the College, normal collection procedures will be followed. Extra-Curricular Activities Extra-curricular activities are specific activities that are non-compulsory in the delivery of College curriculum and attendance is voluntary by participants. Families who have applied for and received, or are in the process of applying for, financial support from the College (fee remission based on Application for Reduced Fees) may be considered ineligible to attend extra-curricular activities. Financial Support/ Fee Remission Families experiencing financial difficulty in meeting the fee payment requirements of the College may submit an ‘Application for Reduced Fees’ with the required substantiation for consideration by the Business Manager. Fee concessions apply to the current year assessed on a case-by-case basis and must be applied for each year. Gleeson College is considerate and sensitive in the assessment of the circumstances and all information provided remains strictly confidential. Enquiries regarding fees can be directed to the Finance Team on 08 8282 6600. Please note all information in this prospectus is correct as of time of printing, and fees, curriculum and policies may change throughout the year.
a journey of the heart...
...an expedition of the mind
At Gleeson College, it is our hope that in partnership with families, we can nurture and shape people of service who are: GLEESON GRADUATE QUALITIES just, merciful and humble leaders competent and capable learners thriving individuals deeply connected for the world God desires
Enrol online today: gleeson.college/enrol Gleeson College Kaurna Country, 40-60 Surrey Farm Drive GOLDEN GROVE SA 5125 8282 6600 [email protected] gleeson.sa.edu.au