San Sisto College students are taking the lead in making their College more sustainable and liveable with the school set to adopt a selection of innovative solutions created by Year 7 Geography students.
A native bee garden the first to be put into action this term, the solutions and prototypes were a part of a student-led expo that saw more than 200 parents, carers, senior leaders, students and community members attend.
San Sisto College Learning and Teaching educator Peter Barber said many creative proposals were displayed during the expo showcasing the student’s Project Based Learning (PBL), where students work in small groups to address a complex question dealing with a real-world issue.
“There were innovative ideas to develop more effective learning spaces, a plan to create a native bee and butterfly garden, and ways to promote greater awareness of the Indigenous heritage of our local area,” he said.
The students worked together to research, collect data, and develop a plan.
Student Zoe Westneat said she found PBL to be a “new and interesting way of learning”.
“In previous years I had not been exposed to this way of collaborative learning, so I was intrigued when it was first introduced to me,” she said.
“One of the things I enjoyed the most about this experience was being able to create my own deadlines and the ‘free-range’ classroom time.
“From this project, I have learned many 21st century skills that will be vital in future years. I look forward to working in this format in the years to come and I am glad that I was able to be a part of this new experience.”
San Sisto College’s Principal, Shelley Hamilton said the College embraces agile and innovative education and pedagogical practices that equip students with 21st century attributes.
“Our dedicated teaching team pursue leading-edge, best-practice pedagogy to maximise learning, and prepare students for occupations in the future that do not currently exist,” Shelley said.
San Sisto College has successfully educated young women for more than 60 years, empowering students to live the college motto “Women of integrity shaping the future”.