Learning & Teaching

OUR LADY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ELTHAM

At OLHC, we use an evidence based approach to ensure that we provide the best possible learning outcomes for all of our students.

Critical to this is understanding how students learn, how to engage students in their learning and how to structure and sequence lessons so that they ‘stick’.

Underpinning our learning and teaching model is the MACS ‘Vision for Instruction’.

SCIENCE OF READING

Literacy

At OLHC, our Literacy learning integrates each of the three strands—language, literature, and literacy—in a comprehensive and evidence-based approach.

Research highlights that while speaking and listening are innate biological skills, reading is a biologically secondary skill, like learning to play an instrument, swim, or ride a bike. Mastering such skills requires explicit, systematic instruction broken into small, manageable steps.

To support literacy development, we use the Little Learners Love Literacy program, which is grounded in the Science of Reading. This structured, systematic synthetic phonics program follows a clear, cumulative teaching sequence to meet the needs of all students. By providing targeted and explicit instruction, we ensure every child builds a strong foundation for reading and writing success.

RESEARCH BASED DATA

Mathematics

At Our Lady Help of Christians, our Numeracy program is rooted in research-based data, ensuring our approach reflects how students learn most effectively. We are guided by the MACs Vision for Instruction, which emphasises a unified, consistent approach focused on continuous improvement to adapt to our students’ evolving needs. Our commitment is to equip children with the foundational skills and understanding that inspire them to become lifelong learners in Numeracy.

We employ principles of explicit instruction, a structured approach that introduces complex skills incrementally. Each skill is broken down into manageable steps, with clear, guided explanations. This method allows students to practise newly learned skills with immediate feedback, facilitating mastery before progressing further.

Our mathematics instruction emphasises three core areas:

Developing Number Sense: Helping students understand quantities and numbers and representing them through objects and numerals to build a foundational understanding.
Building Fluency: Ensuring students master basic arithmetic operations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, to support more complex mathematical reasoning.
Teaching Mathematical Concepts: Fostering a deep understanding of the “why” and “how” behind mathematical procedures and rules, empowering students to apply their knowledge flexibly and confidently.

This approach enables our students to not only perform calculations but also understand the underlying principles, preparing them for future success in Numeracy.

MEETING DIVERSE LEARNING NEEDS

Intervention and Extension

At OLHC our Intervention and Extension Programs are designed to meet the diverse learning needs of every student by providing targeted support and enrichment opportunities. For students who need additional assistance in core subjects, small-group or one-on-one interventions offer tailored instruction to build confidence and bridge learning gaps. For students excelling in their studies, extension activities challenge and inspire them to explore advanced concepts and develop critical thinking skills. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, we ensure every child is empowered to reach their full potential.

Specialist Programs

Specialist Programs at OLHC: Nurturing the Whole Child

At Our Lady Help of Christians (OLHC), we take pride in our specialist programs, reflecting our commitment to fostering the development of the whole person.

Our specialist subject areas provide students with enriching and diverse learning experiences. These include STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths), where innovation and problem-solving skills are cultivated; Physical Education, promoting health and teamwork; Italian, offering cultural and linguistic exploration; and Performing Arts, encouraging creativity and self-expression.

Visual Arts is also a key focus at OLHC, taught explicitly within our classroom program to inspire artistic skills and imagination.

Through these programs, we aim to ignite curiosity, celebrate creativity, and support each student's unique talents and potential.

IMPORTANT DATES

Extra Curricular Offerings

Enriching Experiences Beyond the Classroom at OLHC

At Our Lady Help of Christians (OLHC), we provide our students with a wide range of opportunities to connect, engage, and explore new experiences through an array of extracurricular activities.

Our students enjoy participating in exciting events such as Twilight Sports, celebrating special days, and taking part in activities that foster creativity and teamwork through our lunchtime clubs. For our Years 3 to 6 students, the sporting program includes swimming, athletics, cross country, and inter-school competitions, encouraging active participation and team spirit.

Leadership is nurtured through various student leadership opportunities, while our senior students enjoy the adventure and camaraderie of school camps, as well as excursions designed to enhance their learning. Additionally, programs like Fire Carriers inspire students to embrace cultural understanding and responsibility, further enriching their educational journey.

At OLHC, we aim to provide every child with experiences that empower them to grow, lead, and connect.