Students in the junior and middle schools undertake study of the Key Learning Areas of Religious Education, English, Mathematics, Science, Technology, Studies of Society and the Environment, Physical Education, The Arts and Languages Other Than English.
Literacy skills are developed using a two-pronged approach of phonics and whole-language. One tool used by our teachers is the THRASS (Teaching Handwriting, Reading and Spelling Skills) programme which is a multi-sensory approach to phonics. THRASS equips students with skills to spell and decode words.
Numeracy involves the exploration of number, so that children develop the skills to be able to think and work mathematically. Since young children learn best from “hands-on” experience, we provide meaningful activities which engage their interest. Games and activities based on life experience are valuable tools in the education of young minds.
Religious Education is based on the Archdiocese of Brisbane guidelines. This is an outcomes based program.
Religious Education consists of two distinct but complementary dimensions, namely an educational dimension and a faith formation dimension. The first dimension, most commonly referred to as the classroom teaching and learning of religion, is focused on Religious Education as an educational activity. It utilizes a range of teaching and learning processes and resources. The second dimension, faith formation, is reflected in the religious life of the school, family and parish
Prayer and liturgies are of significant importance in the life of Ryan Catholic College. Classroom prayer occurs on a daily basis with liturgies being celebrated for major feast days and other significant events throughout the school year.
Children making the sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation and Eucharist do this through a parish based program.
Preparatory Year
Early Childhood years at Ryan have “smart” learning as the foundation for educating children. Smart learning provides for holistic development of children—educationally, socially, physically, emotionally and spiritually. In preschool, we provide holistic experiences that allow children to interact with the world around them. We aim to provide a challenging and stimulating environment where differing learning styles are catered for through well-planned, developmental and sequential learning opportunities. Children want to try new things, test ideas and make their own conclusions about specific experiences. Therefore, the scope of smart learning at preschool ensures elements of active and creative work, recreation, interaction with peers and adults, and rest.
During this period of transition, Prep students are given a sense of God in their life as they learn how to show love and respect for those around them. As they work and pray together, children are able to experience values of love, hope, faith, sharing, community, reconciliation and giving thanks. These values are further developed throughout primary and secondary education. We are dedicated to provide creative and uplifting experiences that raise children’s awareness to the world of beauty within.
Hours
Preparatory Year is full-time i.e. 5 days per week in term time. Sessions begin at 8.30am and finish at 2.50pm. Parents are most welcome to stay for approximately 10 minutes after the starting time and share some special activities such as reading a story or solving a puzzle together.
Uniform
Children in Prep wear the full Ryan uniform available from our College uniform shop.
