Learning at Barker is personalised, collaborative, dynamic and innovative.
Our research-based, multi-tiered approach to learning ensures that students across the school (Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12) are able to access a range of support structures and programs designed to respond to students’ individual learning needs.
Universal Support
The Individual Learning Centre works closely with teachers to support student learning within the inclusive classroom. Collaborative lesson planning and team teaching opportunities foster the development of targeted differentiated classroom learning strategies, allowing for a range of students to access learning activities within the classroom.
Students have access to a range of targeted academic support programs run by the ILC. Focus On (Years 7-9) Forward Focus (Year 10) and Senior Study Sessions (Years 11-12) are popular academic support and study skills programs available for all students in the Senior School. Year group workshops such as RealTime and Study Skills programs are designed to develop students’ time management and organisational needs in practical and supportive ways.
Learning Support
Research-based Literacy and Numeracy interventions support students with specific learning needs. These targeted support programs are designed to complement classroom programs and address important foundation skills and assist in the consolidation of student learning.
In the Senior School, targeted academic support is provided through streaming in some core classes, the Additional Studies program (Year 7-10) as well as through Senior Study Sessions.
Individual Learning Programs
At times, some students may require supplementary or intensive support. In such cases, the ILC will work closely with key pastoral care staff, school psychologists, parents and students to collaboratively develop, implement and monitor appropriate individualised learning programs and delivery research-based interventions.
The ILC co-ordinate Assessment Adjustments for assessments and examinations. The Department also prepare Higher School Certificate Disability Provisions applications for submission to the NSW Education Standards Authority. Students and parents who wish to find out additional information regarding Disability Provisions should contact Individual Learning.
English as an Additional Language/Dialect
EAL/D education is an integral part of the whole school curriculum. EAL/D teachers work in cooperation with class teachers and other specialist teachers to support EAL/D students by establishing a class environment that promotes differentiated learning and values cultural and linguistic diversity.
EAL/D specialist teachers use the ESL Scales to identify students’ English language learning needs and to plan for the learning progression of English language needs. Teaching and learning programs are enhanced through differentiation to reflect the language learning needs of EAL/D students.