SUBJECT INFORMATION BOOKLET
Introduction Dear students, parents and caregivers, Ignatius Park College is a school for boys that promotes the spiritual, intellectual, physical and social development of each member of the College community. Your son is about to embark on a very significant and important part of their education. While their studies in Year 10 have provided an important foundation for their senior schooling, Years 11 and 12 represent the platform from which they will leave the College learning environment and transition to employment, further training, university study or a combination of these. It is, therefore, critical they make the most of the next two years in order to provide themselves with every chance of success in their future endeavours. Their studies over the next two years will provide them with an unprecedented opportunity to explore specialised subjects and courses that are of interest to them and that align with their future career plans. Shaun Clarke – Principal As a College we are committed, in co-operation with parents, to engage students in a liberating educational experience within the context of an Edmund Rice community which is fulfilling and rewarding. Our vision is to deliver academic excellence in boys’ education through the provision of a transformative, vibrant and reflective learning community that equips and inspires our students to confidently and successfully participate as men of integrity in a changing world. Society has rapidly evolved in the last century and the needs of learners have changed. The redeveloped QCAA syllabus calls our students to develop the skills of the 21st century, to be critical thinkers, problem solvers, strong communicators, collaborators, global citizens and creative learners. In other words, we are called to provide a holistic education with the student at the centre of learning. Today the goal of study is not just an accumulation of facts and figures but sharing in knowledge and wisdom so that we can serve and improve our local and global communities. It means an education that promotes the development of a deep understanding of self and of the complex nature of our local, national and global environments. Therefore, one of the most important responsibilities of this and future generations is to build a just and viable global order, where all people have a sense and belief of their true value and can live together in peace and mutual respect. The Curriculum Handbook assists students in making choices which will broaden and deepen their educational experience. Subject selection is very important in shaping future pathways and links between school, further study and the world of work. The information has been prepared to assist students and families in considering the range of course options available to students at Ignatius Park College. The important subject choices that your son makes at the senior years now will prepare them for a future beyond school, a learning journey that engages their hearts and minds to become self-directed learners, compassionate leaders and responsible and active citizens in our community. Education is no longer about preparing students for a specific career, it is about teaching students’ lifelong values, discipline, and the ability to explore new ideas and to think independently. Students need to develop their creativity, think strategically, communicate astutely, collaborate and apply creative algorithms to address complex problems. These skills will help them drive and empower their own careers in a competitive global marketplace. Please take time to read the Ignatius Park College Curriculum Handbook with your son. Through discernment and the guidance of parents and teachers, it is my hope that all students will successfully map their learning pathway through to the completion of QCE.
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