Structure of the Curriculum
Sacred Texts
The Sacred Texts strand comprises three distinct yet interrelated sub-strands: Old Testament, New Testament, and Christian Spiritual Writings and Wisdom.
Old Testament and New Testament
The Bible is foundational for Catholic Christians, encompassing the sacred writings of the Old Testament (Hebrew Scriptures) and the New Testament (Christian Scriptures). The Bible contains the foundational account of God’s relationship with people and the human response to God. Students in Archdiocesan schools grow in their familiarity with Old Testament and New Testament texts, and develop their ability to use a range of Biblical tools and apply Biblical criticism to deepen their awareness of the scriptures and apply them in relevant and helpful ways to the circumstances of life.
Students engage in a formal and systematic study of the Bible, its nature, structure, formation, content and contexts. They are empowered to empathetically enter into the historical, social and cultural contexts of the human authors of scriptural texts and to deepen their understanding of the audiences and intentions of the texts. Students engage with a broad range of text types and textual features to critically reflect on messages in Old Testament and New Testament texts. Students learn how scripture is used by the Church to form and inform individuals, communities and traditions, assist personal and communal prayer, and provide insights into life and guidance for living. They are encouraged to show respect and reverence for the Bible as a sacred book and the scriptures as the Word of God.
The Catholic Church acknowledges scripture and tradition together as the source of its beliefs, liturgy, prayer and moral teaching. In coming to understand and appreciate the story of God’s engagement with humanity in scripture and in the ongoing tradition of the Church, students increasingly recognise God’s loving activity in human history and in the lives of individuals. Students begin to understand the ways in which what the Church believes, lives, celebrates and prays finds its source and inspiration in the ongoing story of the relationship between God and people. Students are helped to see that they are also part of this ongoing story as well.
Christian Spiritual Writings and Wisdom
Students at Holy Spirit School engage with a wide range of spiritual writings in the rich tradition of Catholic Christianity which continues to tell the story of God’s relationship with people and the human response to God. These spiritual writings include writings of the mystics, the fathers and mothers of the Church, the founders of the great traditions of Christian spirituality and other religious and lay people past and present. Students explore the diversity of spiritual writings and expressions of spirituality through The Arts, and through a variety of media and modes of communication. They explore how these expressions of spirituality have captured the religious imagination; inspiring, guiding and giving strength to believers over time.
Beliefs
The Beliefs strand comprises three distinct yet interrelated sub-strands. These sub-strands are Trinity: God, Jesus the Christ, Spirit; Human Existence; and World Religions.
Trinity: God, Jesus the Christ, Spirit
Students at Holy Spirit School grow in understanding and appreciation of foundational Catholic beliefs about God, Jesus and Spirit. They learn about Catholic teachings in relation to the ongoing story of God’s loving relationship with humanity as recounted in scripture and in the ongoing tradition of the Church. Students understand the variety of ways in which Catholic beliefs have found expression over time and the variety of “theologies” through which Catholic faith has sought to understand and express itself. The Creeds and the teachings of the Church that flow from them have been elaborated over the centuries as the Church has reflected upon, discussed, and debated its understanding of God’s self-revelation to humanity.
Human Existence
Students at Holy Spirit School are encouraged to approach Catholic beliefs critically and in a way that gives value to both the role of the teaching authority in proclaiming the truth of Catholic beliefs and the role of Catholics in respecting the richness and implications of these beliefs for human existence. Students study the beliefs and teachings of the Church in relation to the realities of their own lives and the world in which they live. They are helped to understand how the truths of the Catholic faith tradition have perennial relevance for themselves, for communities of believers, the wider community and all of creation.
World Religions
Students at Holy Spirit School are challenged by the increasing globalisation of today’s world. Through a study of the major world religions, they are given the opportunity to explore the interrelationships between religion and society and deepen their understanding of the beliefs and practices of Catholic Christian Tradition. Students learn how world religions contribute valuable insights into the mystery of God and of other people and in the quest for meaning and purpose in the lives of individuals and communities.
The study of Judaism and Islam introduces students to the connections and differences between the monotheistic religions and encourages dialogue that can lead to understanding and respect, as they learn to value their own beliefs and those of others. A study of Eastern religions, including Buddhism and Hinduism, develops students’ understanding and appreciation of their Asian neighbours and their capacity to be active and informed citizens working together to build harmonious local, regional and global communities.
Church
The Church strand comprises three distinct yet interrelated sub-strands: Liturgy and Sacraments, People of God, and Church History.
Liturgy and Sacraments
Students at Holy Spirit School schools grow in their understanding and appreciation of the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church. They develop an understanding of the many ways in which the Biblical story of God’s covenant relationship finds echoes in the lives of individuals and in their relationships with others. Students learn how liturgy can assist them to give authentic and creative expression to their own ongoing story, to their struggles and triumphs, successes and failures, sorrows and joys, and to all that lies deepest within them. Each student’s individual story is linked to the Christian story which is centred on the person of Jesus Christ, his life, death and resurrection. They explore the capacity of liturgy to express the cultural diversity of believers and encourage their active participation in worship.
Students develop an understanding of how Sacraments of the Church proclaim God’s presence in human life through words, actions and symbols. In exploring the historical development of Sacraments, students make connections between the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church and the life and ministry of Jesus.
People of God
Students at Holy Spirit School grow in their understanding of the Church as both visible organisation and spiritual community; a human community in communion that reflects and witnesses to the loving communion of Father, Son and Spirit. The Church does not exist for itself but is empowered by the Spirit to be at the service of others. Students learn how the Church is called and challenged to be God’s pilgrim people and the expression of the continuing presence of Jesus Christ in the world. They learn that the Church has the right and responsibility of carrying on Christ’s mission and ministry through the power of the Spirit and that this is a shared mission between consecrated persons and the lay faithful.
In learning about the Church as a human community, a community-of-persons, students investigate its organisational structure, leadership structure, practices and rules. They begin to understand the nature of Church authority as hierarchical and collegial, reflective of history and culture. They study the roles of men and women in the structure and leadership of the Church. Students are helped to understand that the Church’s authority has scriptural origins, and is a service exercised in the name of Christ and for the sake of others. They also make connections between the structures and practices of different Church communities and their culture and history.
In learning about the Church as a spiritual community, persons-in-community, students grow in their understanding that communion is about a rich sense of connectedness; a spiritual unity with Jesus, with Mary as Mother of the Church, with all members of the Church, living and dead (‘communion of saints’), and with other Christians, that is made visible in the life of the Church. Students explore the understanding of Catholic Christians who see themselves as children of God needing to be connected to God, to others and to all of creation.
Church History
Students at Holy Spirit Schoolschools grow in their understanding and appreciation of different periods in the history of the Church through an examination of key people, events and movements in their historical context, and in relation to their contemporary significance. Historical events are considered in relation to the different social, cultural, political and intellectual contexts that shaped people’s lives and actions.
Students examine the history of the Church in Australia within a broader world. They develop their knowledge, understanding and skills across a number of different contexts including family, parish, diocese and Australian Church. Students explore the beginnings of Christianity and the development of the Church over time. Students develop an appreciation of the diverse perspectives, motivations and contributions of key historical groups including lay persons, religious congregations and clergy. Broad patterns of historical change and significant historical events and developments in the Church are examined.
Students’ historical understanding is developed through the exploration of concepts that help make sense of the past, including continuity and change, cause and effect, empathy and perspective. Through a process of historical inquiry, students develop historical skills such as: sequencing within a chronological framework; using appropriate historical terms and concepts; posing historical questions; locating information; using and acknowledging sources; explaining different perspectives and interpretations; and developing historical narratives and descriptions. Students’ knowledge and understanding of the history of the Church enable them to better appreciate the Church of the present so that they might contribute critically and effectively to its future.
Christian Life
The Christian Life strand comprises three distinct yet interrelated sub-strands: Moral
Formation; Mission and Justice; and Prayer and Spirituality.
Moral Formation
Moral formation within the Catholic Christian Tradition is founded on the innate dignity of the human person, created in the image and likeness of God. Students develop strategies needed to have a clear-sighted, honest, realistic attitude towards themselves, other people and the world in which they live. They investigate ways in which moral living is shaped by personal, social and cultural factors and by the social teachings of the Church.
Students are introduced to the scriptural foundations for Christian moral living, specifically the Decalogue (Ten Commandments), the ‘Greatest Commandment’ and the Beatitudes. Christian moral life is presented in the context of relationship; relationship with God in solidarity with others and the whole of creation. Students are challenged to live a virtuous life, doing good and avoiding evil, seeking not just their own happiness and fulfilment but the happiness and fulfilment of others, the creation of a just world and the wellbeing of all of creation.
Guided by a fundamental belief in the dignity of the human person and of all creation, students grow in moral understanding, sensitivity, and discernment. They develop their ability for moral reasoning while recognising their ongoing need for love, compassion, conversion, forgiveness and reconciliation. Students investigate processes and frameworks for moral decision-making and learn to make informed moral decisions in the light of a carefully formed conscience, guided by prayer and reflection on the Word of God, the life and teaching of Jesus Christ, the witness and advice of others, and the authoritative teaching of the Church. They learn about acting according to rational judgement, taking into account the good of all.
Mission and Justice
When individuals and communities express in an active and practical way who they are and what they do because of their relationship with Jesus Christ, they are engaging in the mission of the Church. Students explore the many and varied ways believers are called to give witness to the beliefs and values of the Catholic Christian tradition and proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. They are challenged to understand how maintaining Christian integrity will at times require thinking and acting in ways that run counter to the dominant culture.
Students examine how moral living within the broader context of the mission of the Church is expressed through action for justice. Students engage with the major themes of justice derived from scripture and Church social teaching. A Catholic Christian understanding of justice emerging from the Biblical tradition is expressed through respect for the human person, promotion of the common good, promotion of peace solidarity, subsidiarity, stewardship, participation, economic justice, rights and responsibilities, and a preferential option for the poor.
Prayer and Spirituality
Students grow in their understanding and experience of awe, reverence, and a sense of the mystery and transcendence of life as important elements of Christian prayer and spirituality. For believers in the Catholic Christian tradition, prayer and spirituality are intimately linked to their daily lives. Students explore ways in which prayer and spirituality support and express the Christian life of individuals and groups. Students learn about the three expressions of prayer: vocal prayer, meditative prayer and contemplative prayer. They also learn about the essential forms of prayer in the Christian tradition: blessing and adoration, petition and intercession, thanksgiving and praise. Students participate in a variety of prayer experiences, including different meditative prayer practices and spiritual exercises.
http://www.rec.bne.catholic.edu.au/Organisation/Structure/Pages/default.aspx
The Sacred Texts strand comprises three distinct yet interrelated sub-strands: Old Testament, New Testament, and Christian Spiritual Writings and Wisdom.
Old Testament and New Testament
The Bible is foundational for Catholic Christians, encompassing the sacred writings of the Old Testament (Hebrew Scriptures) and the New Testament (Christian Scriptures). The Bible contains the foundational account of God’s relationship with people and the human response to God. Students in Archdiocesan schools grow in their familiarity with Old Testament and New Testament texts, and develop their ability to use a range of Biblical tools and apply Biblical criticism to deepen their awareness of the scriptures and apply them in relevant and helpful ways to the circumstances of life.
Students engage in a formal and systematic study of the Bible, its nature, structure, formation, content and contexts. They are empowered to empathetically enter into the historical, social and cultural contexts of the human authors of scriptural texts and to deepen their understanding of the audiences and intentions of the texts. Students engage with a broad range of text types and textual features to critically reflect on messages in Old Testament and New Testament texts. Students learn how scripture is used by the Church to form and inform individuals, communities and traditions, assist personal and communal prayer, and provide insights into life and guidance for living. They are encouraged to show respect and reverence for the Bible as a sacred book and the scriptures as the Word of God.
The Catholic Church acknowledges scripture and tradition together as the source of its beliefs, liturgy, prayer and moral teaching. In coming to understand and appreciate the story of God’s engagement with humanity in scripture and in the ongoing tradition of the Church, students increasingly recognise God’s loving activity in human history and in the lives of individuals. Students begin to understand the ways in which what the Church believes, lives, celebrates and prays finds its source and inspiration in the ongoing story of the relationship between God and people. Students are helped to see that they are also part of this ongoing story as well.
Christian Spiritual Writings and Wisdom
Students at Holy Spirit School engage with a wide range of spiritual writings in the rich tradition of Catholic Christianity which continues to tell the story of God’s relationship with people and the human response to God. These spiritual writings include writings of the mystics, the fathers and mothers of the Church, the founders of the great traditions of Christian spirituality and other religious and lay people past and present. Students explore the diversity of spiritual writings and expressions of spirituality through The Arts, and through a variety of media and modes of communication. They explore how these expressions of spirituality have captured the religious imagination; inspiring, guiding and giving strength to believers over time.
Beliefs
The Beliefs strand comprises three distinct yet interrelated sub-strands. These sub-strands are Trinity: God, Jesus the Christ, Spirit; Human Existence; and World Religions.
Trinity: God, Jesus the Christ, Spirit
Students at Holy Spirit School grow in understanding and appreciation of foundational Catholic beliefs about God, Jesus and Spirit. They learn about Catholic teachings in relation to the ongoing story of God’s loving relationship with humanity as recounted in scripture and in the ongoing tradition of the Church. Students understand the variety of ways in which Catholic beliefs have found expression over time and the variety of “theologies” through which Catholic faith has sought to understand and express itself. The Creeds and the teachings of the Church that flow from them have been elaborated over the centuries as the Church has reflected upon, discussed, and debated its understanding of God’s self-revelation to humanity.
Human Existence
Students at Holy Spirit School are encouraged to approach Catholic beliefs critically and in a way that gives value to both the role of the teaching authority in proclaiming the truth of Catholic beliefs and the role of Catholics in respecting the richness and implications of these beliefs for human existence. Students study the beliefs and teachings of the Church in relation to the realities of their own lives and the world in which they live. They are helped to understand how the truths of the Catholic faith tradition have perennial relevance for themselves, for communities of believers, the wider community and all of creation.
World Religions
Students at Holy Spirit School are challenged by the increasing globalisation of today’s world. Through a study of the major world religions, they are given the opportunity to explore the interrelationships between religion and society and deepen their understanding of the beliefs and practices of Catholic Christian Tradition. Students learn how world religions contribute valuable insights into the mystery of God and of other people and in the quest for meaning and purpose in the lives of individuals and communities.
The study of Judaism and Islam introduces students to the connections and differences between the monotheistic religions and encourages dialogue that can lead to understanding and respect, as they learn to value their own beliefs and those of others. A study of Eastern religions, including Buddhism and Hinduism, develops students’ understanding and appreciation of their Asian neighbours and their capacity to be active and informed citizens working together to build harmonious local, regional and global communities.
Church
The Church strand comprises three distinct yet interrelated sub-strands: Liturgy and Sacraments, People of God, and Church History.
Liturgy and Sacraments
Students at Holy Spirit School schools grow in their understanding and appreciation of the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church. They develop an understanding of the many ways in which the Biblical story of God’s covenant relationship finds echoes in the lives of individuals and in their relationships with others. Students learn how liturgy can assist them to give authentic and creative expression to their own ongoing story, to their struggles and triumphs, successes and failures, sorrows and joys, and to all that lies deepest within them. Each student’s individual story is linked to the Christian story which is centred on the person of Jesus Christ, his life, death and resurrection. They explore the capacity of liturgy to express the cultural diversity of believers and encourage their active participation in worship.
Students develop an understanding of how Sacraments of the Church proclaim God’s presence in human life through words, actions and symbols. In exploring the historical development of Sacraments, students make connections between the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church and the life and ministry of Jesus.
People of God
Students at Holy Spirit School grow in their understanding of the Church as both visible organisation and spiritual community; a human community in communion that reflects and witnesses to the loving communion of Father, Son and Spirit. The Church does not exist for itself but is empowered by the Spirit to be at the service of others. Students learn how the Church is called and challenged to be God’s pilgrim people and the expression of the continuing presence of Jesus Christ in the world. They learn that the Church has the right and responsibility of carrying on Christ’s mission and ministry through the power of the Spirit and that this is a shared mission between consecrated persons and the lay faithful.
In learning about the Church as a human community, a community-of-persons, students investigate its organisational structure, leadership structure, practices and rules. They begin to understand the nature of Church authority as hierarchical and collegial, reflective of history and culture. They study the roles of men and women in the structure and leadership of the Church. Students are helped to understand that the Church’s authority has scriptural origins, and is a service exercised in the name of Christ and for the sake of others. They also make connections between the structures and practices of different Church communities and their culture and history.
In learning about the Church as a spiritual community, persons-in-community, students grow in their understanding that communion is about a rich sense of connectedness; a spiritual unity with Jesus, with Mary as Mother of the Church, with all members of the Church, living and dead (‘communion of saints’), and with other Christians, that is made visible in the life of the Church. Students explore the understanding of Catholic Christians who see themselves as children of God needing to be connected to God, to others and to all of creation.
Church History
Students at Holy Spirit Schoolschools grow in their understanding and appreciation of different periods in the history of the Church through an examination of key people, events and movements in their historical context, and in relation to their contemporary significance. Historical events are considered in relation to the different social, cultural, political and intellectual contexts that shaped people’s lives and actions.
Students examine the history of the Church in Australia within a broader world. They develop their knowledge, understanding and skills across a number of different contexts including family, parish, diocese and Australian Church. Students explore the beginnings of Christianity and the development of the Church over time. Students develop an appreciation of the diverse perspectives, motivations and contributions of key historical groups including lay persons, religious congregations and clergy. Broad patterns of historical change and significant historical events and developments in the Church are examined.
Students’ historical understanding is developed through the exploration of concepts that help make sense of the past, including continuity and change, cause and effect, empathy and perspective. Through a process of historical inquiry, students develop historical skills such as: sequencing within a chronological framework; using appropriate historical terms and concepts; posing historical questions; locating information; using and acknowledging sources; explaining different perspectives and interpretations; and developing historical narratives and descriptions. Students’ knowledge and understanding of the history of the Church enable them to better appreciate the Church of the present so that they might contribute critically and effectively to its future.
Christian Life
The Christian Life strand comprises three distinct yet interrelated sub-strands: Moral
Formation; Mission and Justice; and Prayer and Spirituality.
Moral Formation
Moral formation within the Catholic Christian Tradition is founded on the innate dignity of the human person, created in the image and likeness of God. Students develop strategies needed to have a clear-sighted, honest, realistic attitude towards themselves, other people and the world in which they live. They investigate ways in which moral living is shaped by personal, social and cultural factors and by the social teachings of the Church.
Students are introduced to the scriptural foundations for Christian moral living, specifically the Decalogue (Ten Commandments), the ‘Greatest Commandment’ and the Beatitudes. Christian moral life is presented in the context of relationship; relationship with God in solidarity with others and the whole of creation. Students are challenged to live a virtuous life, doing good and avoiding evil, seeking not just their own happiness and fulfilment but the happiness and fulfilment of others, the creation of a just world and the wellbeing of all of creation.
Guided by a fundamental belief in the dignity of the human person and of all creation, students grow in moral understanding, sensitivity, and discernment. They develop their ability for moral reasoning while recognising their ongoing need for love, compassion, conversion, forgiveness and reconciliation. Students investigate processes and frameworks for moral decision-making and learn to make informed moral decisions in the light of a carefully formed conscience, guided by prayer and reflection on the Word of God, the life and teaching of Jesus Christ, the witness and advice of others, and the authoritative teaching of the Church. They learn about acting according to rational judgement, taking into account the good of all.
Mission and Justice
When individuals and communities express in an active and practical way who they are and what they do because of their relationship with Jesus Christ, they are engaging in the mission of the Church. Students explore the many and varied ways believers are called to give witness to the beliefs and values of the Catholic Christian tradition and proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. They are challenged to understand how maintaining Christian integrity will at times require thinking and acting in ways that run counter to the dominant culture.
Students examine how moral living within the broader context of the mission of the Church is expressed through action for justice. Students engage with the major themes of justice derived from scripture and Church social teaching. A Catholic Christian understanding of justice emerging from the Biblical tradition is expressed through respect for the human person, promotion of the common good, promotion of peace solidarity, subsidiarity, stewardship, participation, economic justice, rights and responsibilities, and a preferential option for the poor.
Prayer and Spirituality
Students grow in their understanding and experience of awe, reverence, and a sense of the mystery and transcendence of life as important elements of Christian prayer and spirituality. For believers in the Catholic Christian tradition, prayer and spirituality are intimately linked to their daily lives. Students explore ways in which prayer and spirituality support and express the Christian life of individuals and groups. Students learn about the three expressions of prayer: vocal prayer, meditative prayer and contemplative prayer. They also learn about the essential forms of prayer in the Christian tradition: blessing and adoration, petition and intercession, thanksgiving and praise. Students participate in a variety of prayer experiences, including different meditative prayer practices and spiritual exercises.
http://www.rec.bne.catholic.edu.au/Organisation/Structure/Pages/default.aspx