Middle Years
Good Shepherd Lutheran College’s middle years curriculum stands proudly as a unique offering in the Northern Territory, shaped by a commitment to our Free to Flourish learning framework values and the standards set in the Australian Curriculum. Our program provides a solid framework for students to develop essential knowledge, understanding, and skills across various key learning areas.
Our balanced approach of explicit and inquiry-based learning encourages deep understanding, curiosity, active engagement and critical thinking as students explore ideas and take ownership of their learning journey. Students connect their academic studies to real-world challenges, fostering a sense of responsibility and community engagement.
We are dedicated to sustainability and instilling a sense of guardianship for the planet. Students gain a deeper appreciation of the environment and the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, learning from their enduring connection to the land. This holistic approach shapes informed, engaged, and compassionate young people, ready to make meaningful contributions to a sustainable future.
Year 6 – A transition into middle school learning
Year 6 is an exciting time for students as they move from their childhood years in primary school towards their adolescence in Middle School. Upon completion of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme in Year 5, students transition into the Middle Years curriculum and attend the Howard Springs Middle/Senior campus in Year 6. During their final term in Year 5, students take part in orientation activities that allow them to experience life at their new campus. These sessions, led by specialist subject teachers, help students build connections across programs and foster a strong sense of belonging. This thoughtful integration of the Primary Years Programme into the Middle Years is proven to have higher levels of wellbeing and academic success.
Core Subjects
| Christian Studies | Christian Studies is an integral part of our curriculum and develops an understanding of Christian beliefs and values within students. Students explore Christian values, personal identity, community service and examine the teachings of Jesus. |
| English | Students learn to critically engage with and produce increasingly complex and sophisticated spoken and written texts. The English curriculum creates confident communicators and imaginative thinkers. |
| Science | In Middle Years Science, students explore science as a dynamic and collaborative human pursuit driven by curiosity and the desire to understand our world. |
| Mathematics | Students gain essential mathematical skills and knowledge in number and algebra, measurement and geometry, and statistics and probability. Through this knowledge, students learn to investigate, represent and interpret situations in their personal and work lives. |
| Humanities and Social Sciences | Students explore human behaviour and interaction in social, cultural, environmental, economic and political contexts. As well as history and geography, students study civics and citizenship, economics and business. |
| Health and Physical Education | Students learn about the role of physical activity, diversity, and environmental connections in promoting health and wellbeing. |
Additional subjects
| Languages | German, French and Japanese are offered, with students choosing which language to study. |
| The Arts | Students’ creativity is unleashed through various Arts subjects, including Visual Art, Drama, Dance and Music. |
| Design Technology | Students explore the world of design through a range of subjects including Materials (woodwork), Food, Product Design, Textiles, 3D Printing and Digital Media. |
Learn more about our Middle Years offering through our Middle Years Curriculum Handbook
Beyond the classroom
Middle school students participate in regular extra-curricular activities focussed on wellbeing and community. As well as College events and camps, additional opportunities for students exist to develop community spirit and engagement.
• Athletics and swimming carnivals
• Combined house days and activities
• Leadership opportunities (Middle School and House Captains)
• Cross Country events
• Wellbeing days (animal encounters, sports, external workshops and much more)
• Colour fun runs
• Wellbeing workshops and guest speakers
• Camps and interstate trips
• Top End Region Interschool Sport (TERIS)
• College choir
• College musical
• Instrumental music tuition
• Community engagement (fundraising, charity events, etc)