Programs and Activities

BIBLICAL STUDIES AND CHRISTIAN LIVING
At Maranatha, we believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God and is the most important resource we can use to learn about Him.

Each morning, every class begins with a time of devotion and a prayer while every subject is taught from a Christian perspective.

Every class has formal Bible lessons where students equipped with a useful working knowledge of the Bible. Assemblies are held regularly with different grades involved, usually reflecting a biblical theme, Bible verse and/or prayer.

CULTURE OF PEACE
At Maranatha our commitment is to build a culture of peace among the community of children, teachers and parents. Understandably it is inevitable that conflict occurs in any setting where people are doing life together, whether children or adults. We teach children to see conflict as being an opportunity to glorify God, serve others and to grow to be more like Christ. We teach children to resolve conflict through use of programs like Young Peacemakers as well as circle time and restorative practice.

Effective communication between parents and teachers is indispensable for student success. Junior School staff value partnership with parents, because partnership creates support and accountability for students.

FORTNIGHTLY ASSEMBLIES
Because Maranatha’s Junior School is a Christian learning community, school assemblies are seen as a celebratory communal event. Assemblies are our chance to acknowledge student achievements, as well as share and celebrate successes that have occurred that fortnight. Often classes are invited to present a song, or Bible-story, and there is always a chance to pray together.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP: TEACHING THAT LEADERSHIP IS SERVICE
In a Christian school Leadership is service and we must actively confront assumptions about privilege in leadership that are modelled in our secularist society. Junior Schooling actually provides wonderful opportunities to teach Discipleship. In a school where Biblical principles underpin all systems and structures, Discipleship training is a must. Leadership opportunities in Junior School include:
  • Prep buddies with Grade 5
  • Grade 4 and ELC buddies
  • Roles and responsibilities at higher grades to cater for Campus wide activities eg Library assistants
  • Assembly assistants:
  • Sports equipment distribution
  • Flag raising
  • Bus deliveries between Campus
EDUCATION SUPPORT AND ENHANCEMENT
All teachers endeavour to cater to the full spectrum of ability with a ‘differential program’ – a program that recognises that students learn differently, at different rates and with differing abilities.
Children who excelled in different areas are challenged with extension activities, in areas of interest and areas of strength.
Education Support can assist students, making the mainstream program manageable for those having difficulty in class as well as to extend the high achievers. Our Education Support team, work alongside our classroom teachers and students to achieve success.

Support may be provided in a range of ways including:
  • withdrawing students from class for intensive assistance
  • staying in class to assist students
  • connecting with parents to devise optimal ways to enable learning
COMMUNICATION: HOME & SCHOOL IN PARTNERSHIP
Formal opportunities for connection with teachers are frequent and include:
  • Parent Partnership meetings near the start of the academic year
  • Parent-Teacher interviews through the year
  • Information evenings and sessions
  • Celebration of Work events
ipad program (year 5)
At Maranatha, technology holds its rightful place as a tool for learning. It is not treated with either fear or favour, but through clear instructions in Digital Discipleship, our teachers guide students towards using ICT in wasys that fulfil Christ's expections of His people. Thus ICT becomes an exciting and honourable way to investigate the Lord's universe in all subject areas through the whole school day. Students should use technology to enhance, engage and evaluate their learning. For more information and detail regarding the iPad Program in Years 5-7, please click the following link [iPad Program]