Academic Success: A Progressive Approach at St Augustine’s College

At St Augustine’s College, we believe academic success is a journey, not something achieved overnight. This year, our Academic Program has continued to grow with a clear focus on building strong study skills and strategies from the early years through to senior school.

By setting clear standards around study and homework, and offering structured support, we aim to equip our students with the tools they need to succeed both now and into the future.

Students are encouraged to take advantage of the support available in the ARC (Academic Resource Centre) after school on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, where our teachers are available from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM for extra guidance.

Building Strong Foundations

Year 7 students began the year with a Digital Literacy session run by the TAS faculty. They learned the practical skills needed to manage SEQTA accounts, send direct messages and emails, and use Microsoft Teams effectively. They also explored file management - an important foundation for academic success.

In Term 2, Dr. Prue Salter will lead a parent and student evening on academic support, helping set clear expectations around study habits and homework routines. Building this culture early is key to long-term success, and we’re excited to partner with families in this process.

Introducing New Initiatives

For Year 8, a new two-day "Superhero Study Workshop" was launched with fantastic feedback. The program is designed to sharpen skills in study techniques, critical thinking, handwriting, touch typing, and research and referencing. These sessions help bridge the gap between early secondary and senior study demands.

Preparing for the Senior Years

Year 9 and 10 students attended one-hour workshops led by the Dean of Teaching and Learning. These sessions explored how the brain learns, effective revision and study habits, goal-setting, and when to apply specific strategies.

By introducing these concepts early, we aim to reduce the pressure and adjustment often felt in the senior years, ensuring students enter Years 11 and 12 with a confident academic toolkit.

Senior students in Years 11 and 12 have access to specialised workshops run by Dr Prue Salter and her company, Enhanced Learning Educational Services. These sessions focus on HSC preparation, time management, study strategies, and goal-focused learning, helping students to work towards their personal academic aspirations.

Key Strategies Introduced in Term 1

Throughout the year, we are committed to helping students find what works best for them. Two strategies introduced early in Term 1 have already been making an impact:

The 2-Minute Focus Reset

Adapted from James Clear’s Atomic Habits, this simple activity helps students prepare mentally before starting their homework or study session:

• Find your study posture and take a few deep breaths.
• Set a timer for two minutes (using a clock or microwave timer - no phones!).
• Write down everything you’re thinking about - assignments, chores, upcoming tasks.
• After two minutes, use what you’ve written to create a short, focused action plan.

This small habit can make a big difference in reducing procrastination and getting started.

The Cornell Note-Taking Method

We’ve also been introducing students to the Cornell method, a proven note-taking strategy that improves comprehension and recall.

At St Augustine’s, we believe it’s one of the most accessible and effective techniques for students at any stage of their academic journey. By structuring notes clearly and encouraging active review, the Cornell system can help make revision less overwhelming, something we know is crucial especially as students move into the senior years.

We encourage students to try this method in at least one or two subjects this year. A short video overview has been shared to help them get started.

Continuing the Journey

Academic success is a long-term journey, and every student's pathway will look slightly different. Our goal is to give students a solid foundation of skills and habits that they can carry through school, university, and beyond.

We thank our families for supporting the academic culture at St Augustine’s College, and we look forward to seeing our young men continue to grow, challenge themselves, and achieve their best.