THE PROGRAM of activities that is the basis of student experience at the School provides a balance in three important areas: Character Development; Academic and Skills Training; and Health and Physical Development. Whereas the conventional model of education places greatest emphasis on Academic and Skill Training, Total Education gives Character Development and Health and Physical Development equal status.

Particular emphasis is given to Character Development which is seen as crucial to the best application of academic and skill training and to the enjoyment of good health. The School believes positive values such as honesty, consistency, patience and responsibility integrate an individual’s personality and produce an emotional stability that reduces stress and leaves the student’s mind free to pursue whatever is at hand.

The School believes an individual’s use of his or her intellectual knowledge for the benefit of society is dependent on the quality of character he or she has developed in his or her formative years. For example, a person who has satisfied his or her emotional and social needs in childhood will be more able to give to others in adult life. In work situations he or she will be a better team member, more concentrated and productive and he or she will be more able to make objective assessments of problematic situations — a prerequisite for leaders in the information age.

In terms of physical health — adequate rest, a good diet and a satisfactory level of personal fitness are conducive to good concentration and will therefore help an individual to make the best use of his or her intellectual skills. Furthermore, unless the approach to sports and fitness is modified by a sound character, it can lead to burnout or an over-emphasis on winning rather than on good health and enjoyment.

Character Development

The everyday situations that arise in the classroom and the playground are used by teachers to develop students’ awareness of their own strengths and weaknesses. Teachers show how the application of positive values can help the students manage the personal issues that confront them. Students are given an experience of service and a practical understanding of qualities such as patience, consistency and responsibility. Special days such as the “Students Running the School Day” or the “We Can Do It Day” are a regular feature of the educational program. These special days give all age groups the chance to interact, to highlight their talents and enhance their self-esteem.

The School recognises that the most valuable contributors to the development of character in children are positive and attractive role models and the experience of an adult’s love and patience. Consequently, there is an emphasis on these dimensions in both the Parents Program and the Teacher Development Program.

Academic Development

Teachers encourage students towards excellence in their academic standards. The School seeks to instil into students an intrinsic motivation. This is achieved through teachers affirming the worth of concentration, interest, self-discipline, effective study techniques and a co-operative attitude towards learning. Students don’t view each other as rivals, but as colleagues, and are encouraged to be happy for each others’ successes.

The School’s academic curriculum at primary level is approved by the Queensland Department of Education, and its secondary courses are accredited with the Board of Senior Secondary School Studies. School graduates are eligible for tertiary study and receive a Student Education Profile and a Tertiary Entrance Statement at the completion of Year 12. The School’s approach to education provides graduates with diverse skills and the assurance that learning will continue throughout their lives.

Health & Physical Development

All students are involved in daily physical activity as a balance to time spent on study, and each class has a weekly sports and games session. The school places emphasis on participation, enjoyment and the development of skills. It is anticipated these factors will encourage continued participation in physical activity in adult life. The School discourages competitiveness and preoccupation with winning. There are no inter-school competitions, no cups, no prizes, no ribbons, no special blazer pockets. Students are encouraged to enjoy the activity for its own sake.

Human Relations Education programs are conducted by class teachers from Year 5 to Year 12. Throughout the program, teachers emphasise the values that underlie positive relationships. Students develop a personal understanding of their own sexuality and sexual health. For particular sessions, teachers are assisted by medical practitioners from the T.H.E. Foundation’s associated medical centres.

Copyright The School of Total Education 2001. This page last generated Thu, 7 Mar 2002. Web site by The Design Group.