with Nicole Smith Director of Professional Learning and Accreditation

Students are not the only ones learning in a school setting . At Norwest Christian College , all staff carry out their role under the umbrella of our Building Purposeful Lives ( BPL ) framework .

The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership ( AITSL ) states , “ There is clear evidence that purposeful professional learning for teachers and school leaders is one of the most effective strategies for improving student outcomes in our schools .”

At Norwest , professional learning for our teachers and staff from across the college is a considered , intentional and highly supported endeavour , focused

around our Building Purposeful Lives framework .

Engage in an authentic faith Our staff seek to Love God through an authentic faith in Jesus . They teach through personal interactions and unpack prescribed content through the lens of a Biblical truth . Through mentor groups , wrestling with contemporary issues during class discussions , service opportunities , and chapel services , teachers consistently create opportunities for students to know and participate in God ’ s better story .

Manage with excellence and virtue Teachers and school leaders at Norwest expect to be active learners , to reflect on , receive feedback on , and improve their practice , through lesson observations , instructional coaching , and explicit learning around best and evolving practice . Each teacher at Norwest is involved in a professional learning cycle , where they are observed , given feed forward strategies , and collaborative reflection time with their supervisors . Teachers are also privileged to have both national and international leaders of education present during our January and July PD weeks .

Create with confidence and wisdom We are a constantly growing community

and so as part of ensuring BPL remains central to all we do , all new employees at the college participate in a yearlong induction that unpacks the quadrants of the BPL framework and the impact this has on their role at the college . Teachers are observed , as they integrate the dispositions into their lessons , stretching and growing each student ’ s understanding of how learning is happening and the skills needed to equip them in the future .

Alongside section specific collaborative meetings , staff are also involved in professional learning communities – Learning Hubs . These Learning Hubs meet regularly and dive deeply into current and emerging practices in education . This collaborative approach allows staff to build collective efficacy , deepen understanding , and share ideas and frustrations learning from each other .

Relate to our community through service

Staff are not only committed to their own ongoing growth but have a vision to share our knowledge and understanding with the wider education community . Many teachers are members of professional

Norwest Christian College ’ s Building Purposeful Lives Framework .

networks , involved in postgraduate study or contribute to the growth of the next generation of teachers through mentoring interns or supervising prac students . The Network of Powerful Learning Communities is one such space where schools meet to encourage , challenge , and learn from each other .

If you would like more information about education at Norwest Christian College , please visit www . norwest . nsw . edu . au .