Life at Middle School
Challenge (Academic)
The Middle School is a highly productive environment in which all students are challenged to improve on a daily basis. Our teachers are committed, innovative, energetic and passionate. Students are engaged in the learning process and encouraged to develop a life-long love of learning. Our program sets high standards and expects every student to achieve their personal best.
Extension classes in literacy and numeracy are offered at all year levels. This enables those who are strong academically to work beyond the curriculum constraints of their current year level. Teachers look to differentiate learning within the classroom setting to ensure all needs are catered for.
Students are also challenged outside the classroom, with the opportunity to compete in a sporting program that develops skills, encourages participation and promotes healthy competition. Our students are extended in our outdoor education program, academic competitions and other activities.
Care (Pastoral Care)
At Maranatha, we are mindful of the incredible diversity of students within the middle years and the different stages of physical, emotional and mental development. Our aim is to care for students in a rapidly changing and uncertain world. Middle years provides a safe place where students are free to express their problems, struggles and concerns without the fear of being judged. Teachers care about students and the family as a whole and endeavour to build a strong partnership with parents through regular communication between school and home.
Each student has a member of staff who is directly responsible for their care. This person also teaches them for a significant number of periods. There is a gradual increase in the number of classes and teachers each student has as they progress through the middle years. The aim is to make the transition from junior to senior as seamless as possible. Every teacher has a student welfare focus.
They are supported in this job by our school psychologist, chaplains, counsellors and education support staff. The Head of Middle School and Assistant Head of Middle School also act in a proactive way to ensure all students are happy and safe.
Christ (Spiritual)
We seek to take our students on the journey from childhood to young adults, with Christ at the centre of their world. Beliefs, values and attitudes are developed at this age that will last a lifetime. All curriculum is delivered from a Christian perspective, with students encouraged to view the world through the lens of the Bible. Each day begins with a Bible reading and a time of prayer, allowing students to develop their own relationship with Christ.
Leadership and Service
Year 8 House Leader
There are four House Captains per semester in the Middle School. The selection process includes an application form, peer vote and an interview. Captains work closely with the Head of Middle School and chair the Student Representative Council.
Student Representative Council (SRC)
The Student Representative Council is the main student leadership body of the Middle School. It consists of the four house captains and one representative from each class from Year 6 to Year 8. SRC selection and length of term is determined by the class teacher with input from the class. Members are involved with organising fundraising events and running assemblies. They also take part in Middle School, Endeavour Hills and whole school events.
Community Service
Serving others is a major emphasis of the Middle School. Students have the opportunity to complete projects that assist the local community.
Activities
There are a number of leadership roles in sport, cultural and other activities. Students are encouraged to accept responsibility and serve others.