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Introduction
Adolescents think differently: they start to show concern for the wider world whilst trying to make sense of themselves, the world and their place in it. It is a unique and clear stage of development and a phase of significant physical, emotional, social and intellectual change. Research confirms that this group of young people should be immersed in an educational environment tailored to suit their special needs and to work with adults who have a good understanding of adolescents and their learning requirements.
The Middle School at Pulteney recognises this need for a specially tailored curriculum and learning environment where we are for, and show a personal interest in our students and engage them in interactive and collaborative approaches to their work. They are challenged and given opportunities to feel successful, through our relevant and student-centered curriculum.
The Middle School caters for students in Years 7, 8 and 9. They are taught by a small team of teachers, many who also have responsibility for the pastoral care of a home group. More specialised teaching occurs than in the Junior School and progressively increases through the Middle School years in preparation for senior secondary education.
A multi-disciplinary approach to the curriculum focuses on increasing academic standards, as well as caring for the welfare and well-being of each student. Heads of Faculty work with Middle School teachers and the Director of Teaching and Learning to establish appropriate programs to lead students successfully through the middle years and their transition into the senior secondary environment.
The Middle School teaching team works together to implement programs in a co-ordinated and cogent way. We strive to establish positive relationships with the students and are aware that adolescent learners learn more effectively when they feel good about themselves, and when they know others like and value them. Our teachers strive to understand their students, connect with them and make learning relevant to them.
The middle years are the central years in education; critical years for building a strong sense of identity and the development of the necessary skills for adolescents to function successfully now, and in the future. This time between childhood and adulthood is a tough age - easier to teach than to be. It can be frustrating and difficult at times, but also rewarding and exciting.
Sam McKinney
Director of Middle School
smckinney@pulteney.sa.edu.au |
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Sam McKinney
Director of Middle School
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