By connecting to the real world of students’ lives, authentic learning enables students to become lifelong learners who contribute to society and the wider world as active and discerning citizens. Authentic learning is central to our work as Catholic educators because it promotes the continual growth and wellbeing of the whole person — spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially and physically.

Students  have a major part to play in their own learning. They need to be motivated and active       learners, seeking opportunities to be involved in all aspects of their school work. Effort and attitude are important.

At St Declan’s we believe that a positive mindset that welcomes challenge and sees mistakes as opportunities to grow, allows successful learning to happen. 

I engage with my learning when I…

  • have a growth mindset
  • challenge myself
  • see mistakes as opportunities to learn
  • persevere
  • have a go
  • am motivated to learn

Critical and creative thinking are fundamental to students becoming successful learners.                   

Thinking that is productive, purposeful and intentional is at the centre of effective learning. Responding to the challenges of the twenty-first century requires students to be creative, innovative, enterprising and adaptable. 

At St Declan’s we believe students develop their capabilities in critical and creative thinking as they learn to generate and evaluate knowledge, clarify concepts and ideas, seek possibilities, consider alternatives and solve problems.

I am a creative learner when I…

  • think critically
  • generate new ideas
  • persevere to solve problems
  • put curiosity into action
  • explore ideas

Collaborating with others challenges students to discover and articulate their personal strengths and areas for development. Such self awareness can encourage learners to seek help when necessary and to confidently assist others, resulting in more effective problem solving. 
At St Declan’s, we believe that students collaborate successfully  when motivated learners take ownership of the entire process of learning in an interactive manner. It is a process of shared creation: two or more individuals working together to create shared understanding.

I collaborate successfully when I…

  • share my ideas and learning with others
  • respect the ideas of others
  • strive towards a common goal
  • am an active member of the team