GEM Academy Programs

Big Picture Education

Big Picture Learning design is a dynamic approach to learning, doing and thinking. The learning is based on the passions and interests of each student and is relevant to the real world. This design is applied to develop personalised learning for all students.

At the beginning of each term, students decide on an interest area and complete a Learning Plan and a Mind Map. A Learning Plan is a description of all the work and learning that each student will undertake for that term. At the end of each term, students have an Exhibition that involves presenting their work to other students and staff. Students can choose to invite their parent/carer, another school staff member or student to their exhibition.

Students are assessed on their exhibition and members of the audience also provide feedback.

Kicking Goals - Explicit Literacy Program

Kicking Goals is a literacy program designed to enhance skills in spelling, reading, fluency, writing, punctuation and comprehension.

Students engage in a variety of activities, such as:

• Whole class novel studies
• Reading for enjoyment
• Individualised literacy tasks tailored to their needs
• Independent reading of their chosen books

Pre and post assessments are conducted to measure impact, and the data is used to adjust teaching strategies, ensuring each student achieves the best possible growth.

Wellbeing/Social Skills Program

The GEM Academy implements a number of programs to support students’ wellbeing and mental health. These include:

• Morning Check-ins  – Designed to help students start their day with focus and readiness for learning. Through reflection, goal setting, and explicit teaching of self-regulation and expected behaviours, students are prepared for the day ahead.
• Character Program  – This initiative equips students with strategies to enhance their social skills. Key topics include mental health awareness, conflict resolution, building resilience, fostering positive peer interactions and friendships, responsible use of social media, making informed choices, and understanding positive character traits.

Getting Creative

Getting Creative is an exciting program designed to inspire students through:

• Student Choice:  Allowing students to explore their passions in drama, art, craft, film, gardening, health, robotics, and coding.
• Critical Thinking:  Developing problem-solving, analytical thinking, and innovation skills.
• Creative Expression: Encouraging communication and originality through music, storytelling, hands-on activities and visual arts.

This program supports well-rounded growth by combining various subjects and skills, sparking curiosity, and equipping students with the tools they need to navigate the challenges of today’s world.

Leaving To Learn

The Leaving to Learn program is a weekly initiative designed for targeted students, offering opportunities to explore various community venues such as libraries, art galleries, museums, national parks, swimming pools, and local parks. Students travel using the school bus or public transport, improving their travel skills and gaining real-world experience.

This program helps students develop important life skills, including functional numeracy and literacy, planning and preparing healthy meals, and building positive social interactions. Through these excursions, students practise essential life skills, engage with the community, and reinforce positive behaviours in real-world settings.

The program encourages students to demonstrate the following positive behaviours:

Work Education Opportunities

We offer a variety of tailored programs designed to help students develop the essential skills needed for the workforce. Through school based initiatives like the Coffee Shop, Breakfast Club, $20 Boss, Work Experience, Honesty Fridge, and whole school recycling projects, students gain hands-on experience and learn valuable skills for future careers.

Students can also explore their interests by participating in TAFE, VET courses, and community based programs, providing them with practical knowledge and real world experience to prepare for life beyond school.

Transition plans are tailored to guide each student's path from school to the workplace or other post-school settings. We work closely with families, caregivers, and external support agencies to ensure a seamless transition. Post-school and employment goals are set according to the student's strengths and individual support needs.