Teaching Methods

At St Philip's Christian College Gosford, students are able to get a lot of individual attention and help as class sizes, particularly in the Senior Years, in elective subjects are small.  In the mandatory subjects of English and Maths the classes don't normally exceed 25 students.  In the Junior High School the maximum students in a class is 30.

Teaching styles vary from subject to subject. They can range from a traditional model of the 'teacher at the front with whiteboard' to interactive discussion groups. Technology is utilised to enhance teaching methods through the use of Powerpoint, Internet and Audio-Visuals.

Participation is a key for students studying in Australia. Students will be expected to ask questions in class; contribute to discussions and demonstrate their knowledge in a variety of ways. Students will often be required to write an essay in reply to a question related to their subject.

The Australian Education System places a lot of value on experiental, interactive learning. Therefore, it is common for students to participate in excursions relevant to the subject of study.  For example: to visit a coastal area to examine the geographical aspects and relate it back to concepts being taught in the geography curriculum by undertaking a project; supported by photos; drawings etc.

For students from countries where the teaching method is a traditional lecture style you will find Australian teaching methods quite different. Student learning is assessed on the basis of how students apply knowledge.  This is achieved through testing; exams and assessment projects. 

In Australian High Schools, students move from room to room depending on where their subject is located.  This is opposite to a number of countries, where the teachers move around while the students stay in the one room.

Textbooks and materials are provided with all required textbook and materials. A $100.00 refundable book bond is required at the commencement of schooling. This means that you don't have to buy any text books.

The Australian Education system requires that all students participate in physical education, this is most commonly done in the form of playing sports.  St Philip's Christian College Gosford offers a variety of different sports that suits most students. 

Education is not just about academics - it is about learning to interact successfully with people and the world around us.  You will find in Australia and particularly in St Philip's Christian College Gosford that a lot of work goes into developing the whole of the person.

Being a Christian School a Godly perspective will be enunciated in each aspect of our curriculum.