Curriculum
At St Francis Xavier, our educational priorities are guided by a rich, student-centred curriculum that considers the abilities, potential, and interests of every learner. Our staff continually develop their knowledge of the latest evidence-based educational practices to support student learning and foster cooperation, independence, and initiative.
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We follow the Victorian Curriculum, enhanced by specialist programs in Digital Technology, Italian, Performing Arts, Physical Education, and Visual Art, along with strong foundations in Faith, English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Wellbeing, and environmental education. Our school is equipped with modern indoor and outdoor facilities, the latest devices and tools, and resources that support creativity, technology, and sporting development—ensuring students have everything they need to thrive.
SPIRITUALITY, LITURGY & PRAYER
Religious Education
At St Francis Xavier, our Catholic faith guides everything we do. We provide meaningful opportunities for students to live out the values of respect, compassion, and service through real-life experiences. Recent initiatives have included letter writing to local aged care residents, supporting community charities, and organising donation drives in partnership with groups such as St Vincent de Paul and CARITAS.
EXPLICIT INSTRUCTION
English
At St Francis Xavier, we aim to develop independent, confident, and lifelong readers and writers. From Foundation to Year Six, our literacy program combines explicit teaching with evidence-based approaches to support every learner.
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In the early years, students build strong foundations through the InitiaLit program, developing key skills in phonics, reading, and writing. Across all year levels, targeted small-group instruction helps students grow as confident readers, effective communicators, and creative writers.
RESEARCH BASED DATA
Mathematics
At St Francis Xavier, we foster a positive attitude towards Mathematics through explicit, differentiated teaching that challenges and supports all learners. Students are encouraged to develop a growth mindset, take risks, and learn from mistakes.
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Each Maths lesson focuses on a main learning block, where students engage with new concepts and skills. In addition, every session includes a fluency block to strengthen mental computation and a daily review to reinforce prior learning. Teachers also lead rich Mathematical discussions and provide targeted teaching to extend thinking and build strong Mathematical connections.
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At St Francis Xavier, we make Maths meaningful and relevant, helping students take ownership of their learning and become confident, capable problem-solvers.
MEETING DIVERSE LEARNING NEEDS
Intervention and Extension
At St Francis Xavier, we closely monitor student progress and provide tailored support to help all children succeed. Students receive targeted literacy support through Mini Lit and MacqLit, and are supported in Mathematics through Bond Blocks and GRIN (Getting Ready in Numeracy). Extension opportunities include ASPSMO and the Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC), as well as Maths Games and Quest, helping students build confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and engage with learning in fun and challenging ways.
QUESTION, DISCOVER & LEARN
Inquiry
At St Francis Xavier, learning is designed to be engaging, hands-on, and connected across subjects like Faith, Science, and the Humanities. Students develop critical and creative thinking skills as they ask questions, explore ideas, and share their learning. They are encouraged to follow their own interests and curiosity, with opportunities to complete projects guided by teachers or independently, helping them take ownership of their learning journey.
Specialist Programs
MUSIC, DRAMA & DANCE
Performing Arts
At St Francis Xavier, our Performing Arts program is a thriving and engaging part of school life, giving students the opportunity to explore their creativity and build confidence through music, drama, and dance. In 2026, our focus will be on music and instrumental learning, providing students with hands-on experiences to develop their musical skills. Instruments include ukelele, keyboard and drumming. In 2027, the spotlight will shift to drama and dance, culminating in our first-ever school production — an exciting milestone for our school community.
IMAGINATION AT WORK
Visual Arts
At St Francis Xavier, our Visual Arts program encourages creativity, imagination, and self-expression through a wide variety of art forms and materials. Students explore drawing, painting, printmaking, and digital media, developing both technical skills and an appreciation for artistic expression. Our dedicated Art space provides a vibrant and inspiring environment where students can experiment, create, and showcase their talents through school displays and community events.
PROBLEM SOLVING & DESIGNING
STEM & Robotics
At St Francis Xavier, our STEM program (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) inspires curiosity, problem-solving, and innovation. With a strong focus on coding and robotics, students learn to think critically and creatively as they design, build, and program using a range of modern technologies. Our school is exceptionally well-equipped with robotics kits, coding tools, and digital resources that make hands-on learning exciting and meaningful. We are especially proud of our Robotics Team, which recently represented St Francis Xavier at the State RoboCup competition — a fantastic achievement that showcases the talent, teamwork, and passion of our young innovators.
HEALTH & MOVEMENT
Physical Education
At St Francis Xavier, our Physical Education program promotes fitness, teamwork, and a lifelong love of being active. Students participate in a wide range of sports and physical activities that develop coordination, strength, and confidence, while also learning the importance of fair play and cooperation. We offer opportunities for students to take part in school sports days, interschool competitions, and fun fitness challenges — all designed to build healthy habits and school spirit.
ITALIAN LANGUAGE & CULTURE
Italian
At St Francis Xavier, students enjoy learning Italian through an engaging and interactive language program that celebrates both language and culture. Lessons focus on building vocabulary, listening and speaking skills, and an appreciation for Italian traditions, food, and festivals. Through songs, games, stories, and cultural activities, students develop confidence in communicating in another language while gaining a broader understanding of the world around them. A highlight each year is Italian Day, where students immerse themselves in the vibrant culture through food, music, art, and fun activities that bring the language to life.
