Lighthouse Christian College in Cranbourne has achieved exceptional academic performance across all year levels, consistently surpassing average results and underscoring the school’s commitment to excellence. Principal Jacob Mathews, who has been at the school since its inception in 2008, expresses immense pride in these accomplishments, especially given that over 90% of the students come from a language background other than English, with around 10% being refugees. The student body is predominantly of African descent, complemented by students of Samoan, Malay, Sri Lankan, and Indonesian heritage. Mathews emphasizes the unity and collaboration within the school community as a significant factor in their success and highlights the critical role faith, parental involvement, and dedicated teachers contribute to student outcomes.
A strong emphasis on tutoring has been established at Lighthouse, beginning before the academic year and extending throughout it. Mathews acknowledges the positive impact of former students who return to assist with tutoring and administrative tasks, facilitating their own financial responsibilities while enhancing the support system for current students. This approach not only fosters a sense of community but also provides a practical transition for alumni who understand the school’s culture and needs. Moreover, Mathews actively engages parents through the school newsletter, raising awareness about the detrimental effects of social media on students’ engagement and focus, thereby encouraging constant vigilance against this modern distraction.
Equally noteworthy is the performance of Serpell Primary School located in Templestowe, Melbourne’s east. Principal Wilma Culton attributes the school’s impressive NAPLAN results for years 3 and 5 to a culture rooted in high expectations and effective teaching methodologies. A unique philosophy program that integrates analytical thinking and reflection from prep to year six plays a pivotal role in educating students on critical reasoning and discussion skills. Culton explains how this program encourages children to engage deeply with literature by exploring moral values and responsibilities exemplified in stories, promoting not only academic achievement but also personal development.
Students at Serpell Primary engage in structured discussions where they learn to articulate their thoughts individually and build upon their peers’ ideas, fostering a collaborative learning environment. This method has led to students adopting this constructive language in everyday interactions, indicating a shift in their communication skills. Culton emphasizes the importance of genuine care for the students and the consistency of teaching practices over time, leading to reliable and commendable learning outcomes. The school’s approach to language education, with all teachers trained in English as an additional language, benefits approximately 83% of its students who speak other languages at home, showcasing a dedication to inclusivity and quality instruction.
Deborah Grossek, deputy president of the Victorian Principals Association and principal of Glendal Primary School in Glen Waverley, comments on the value of NAPLAN results as an analytical tool for school performance evaluation. She notes, however, that high performance should not lead to complacency. Continuous improvement is essential, as each cohort presents unique challenges and requirements. The focus on adapting and innovating instructional strategies is an integral part of educational practice, ensuring that schools remain responsive to the evolving needs of their diverse student populations.
Finally, the collective achievements of Lighthouse Christian College and Serpell Primary School reflect a broader commitment to educational excellence within diverse communities. These schools exemplify the power of strong leadership, community involvement, and tailored educational programs that support students from various backgrounds. With principals like Mathews and Culton at the helm, both institutions continue to prioritize high expectations, inclusive practices, and a nurturing environment conducive to high academic performance, ultimately preparing their students for future success. The importance of leveraging resources and fostering a collaborative atmosphere in education is a lesson for schools everywhere aiming to achieve similar levels of success.
