PHS Model of Learning
The Prahran High School Model of Learning is our common language of learning, collaboratively developed by the Foundation team and community.
Our Model of Learning is evidence-based and influenced by the work of researchers such as John Hattie, Robert Marzano, Ron Ritchhart, and Ulrich Boser, along with the Department of Education’s High Impact Teaching Strategies (HITS) and Framework for Improving Student Outcomes (FISO).
Everything we do when planning learning and teaching is influenced by our values - challenge, creativity, curiosity, character, and the desire for students to Make an Impact with their learning.
Teachers are expected to refer to these values when planning units and learning sessions, and to think about the ways we can explicitly teach students to live and embody these values.
Guaranteed, clearly articulated and well-sequenced curriculum.
We believe in the importance for schools to have a guaranteed, clearly articulated and well-sequenced curriculum that connects learning to big ideas. We also believe in the power of ongoing formative assessment and feedback to students in shaping and guiding the learning process.
Collaboration builds collective responsibility for constantly improving teaching practice and so student learning.
Our learning sessions are shaped by our signature pedagogies - approaches to teaching and learning that are evidence based and that support high level learning to occur.
Our use of metacognitive strategies helps students to form deep and powerful understandings of curriculum material, while our commitment to differentiated learning programs means that all students can be challenged in their learning. Our use of project-based learning and design thinking also helps students to connect their learning to the world around them, while encouraging collaboration and skills that will support our students beyond the school.
We also believe in developing students as learners – teaching, modelling and supporting them to develop effective learning habits, build agency in their studies, and to adopt a growth mindset that encourages them to be effective learners both in school and beyond.