Our Academic Culture
Our Deep Learning Approach
As a college, we are committed to fostering a learning environment where students are not just absorbing knowledge but deeply applying and mastering it. As part of our ongoing commitment to academic excellence and student success, we have embraced Deep Learning, a research-based approach that enhances understanding, high-order thinking, and hands-on application of knowledge.
Why Are We Introducing Deep Learning?
As a high-performing school, Saint Mark’s focuses on improving both teacher and student performance. Deep Learning provides a structured framework to achieve these goals by:
- Enhancing Teacher Knowledge – Equipping educators with research-backed strategies to maximise student engagement and retention of knowledge.
- Fostering Student Understanding – Helping students move beyond memorisation to apply concepts meaningfully across different subjects and practical situations
- Building Lifelong Skills – Preparing students for the challenges of higher education and future careers by instilling original thought, teamwork, and strategic thinking.
The Deep Learning Approach
Deep Learning is built around six key Global Competencies (6Cs), which serve as the foundation for meaningful and engaged learning:
- Character – Developing resilience, responsibility, and a strong moral compass.
- Citizenship – Encouraging students to engage with their communities and contribute to the world around them.
- Collaboration – Cultivating teamwork and effective communication.
- Communication – Strengthening the ability to express ideas clearly and thoughtfully.
- Creativity – Inspiring original ideas and strategic solutions.
- Critical Thinking – Helping students analyse, evaluate, and make informed decisions.
Deep Learning in Action
A Classroom Example
To illustrate how Deep Learning is applied in our classrooms, let’s take a look at a Year 7 Science lesson on sustainability and environmental impact.
Traditional Approach vs. Deep Learning Approach
| Traditional Learning | Deep Learning |
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The teacher explains the concept of sustainability, and students take notes. |
The teacher presents a real-world problem: “How can our school reduce its carbon footprint?” |
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Students read from a textbook about renewable and non-renewable resources.
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Students work in groups to research different energy sources and analyse their effectiveness. |
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A worksheet is completed, defining key terms such as “climate change” and “carbon emissions.” |
Students design a sustainability proposal for the school, incorporating the 6Cs (Collaboration, Critical Thinking, Creativity, etc.).
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Students are assessed through a quiz at the end of the lesson. |
Students present their findings to the school leadership team, providing real-world application of their learning.
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By using Deep Learning, students are not just memorising facts, they are engaging, applying, and making a difference. This approach strengthens understanding, develops analytical reasoning, and cultivates practical skills that benefit students throughout their academic journey and future careers.
What Are the Benefits of Deep Learning?
We believe that learning should be transformational, not transactional. Through the Deep Learning model, students will:
- Engage More Deeply – Lessons become more interactive, inquiry-based, and connected to meaningful, real-life challenges.
- Develop Stronger Connections – Learning is collaborative, allowing students to work closely with peers, teachers, and external experts.
- Improve Retention & Application – Knowledge is reinforced through meaningful experiences, making it easier to retain and apply.
- Gain a Sense of Purpose – By tackling world issues, students develop confidence in their ability to make a difference.
Looking to the Future
Deep Learning at Saint Mark’s is more than an academic framework, it is a mindset that empowers students to take ownership of their learning. By implementing this approach, we are preparing our students to be leaders, innovators, and active contributors in their communities.
We look forward to seeing our students thrive as they embark on this exciting journey of Deep Learning!
