At Sacred Heart, we are committed to providing high-quality teaching and learning that helps every student succeed. Our approach is grounded in evidence-based practices—methods backed by research and proven to support student learning.

We use explicit instruction across all year levels, from Prep to Year 6. This means our teachers clearly explain and model new concepts, guide students through practice, and check for understanding every step of the way. This approach is based on Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction, which include reviewing prior learning, breaking down complex ideas into smaller steps, providing regular feedback, and ensuring plenty of opportunities for practice and success.

Our teaching also draws on Sweller’s Cognitive Load Theory, which helps us design lessons that support how children learn best. By being mindful of how much information students can process at once, we structure lessons in a way that reduces overload and supports long-term learning.

Across all year levels, students have access to a knowledge-rich curriculum, which includes Humanities and The Sciences. We believe that building strong background knowledge and vocabulary is essential for every learner. This rich content helps all students understand the world around them and supports their development in reading and writing. When students know more about a topic, they can read with greater understanding and express their ideas more clearly in writing.

These practices are consistent from Prep to Year 6, providing a clear and supportive learning journey. Our goal is to create calm, focused, and engaging classrooms where every student can thrive and feel confident in their learning.