Co-Teaching
Continuing a proud history of redefining education, Claremont College is a pioneer in the introduction of a collaborative teaching and learning model. The College initially received a grant from the Association of Independent Schools of NSW to observe and document co-teaching models. We quickly discovered the power of job embedded professional learning where teams work together to achieve improved student outcomes. From here the idea of co-teaching at Claremont was born. Today, we combine innovative and flexible learning spaces and a team approach to teaching and learning.
Learning Enrichment
We aim to ignite a love for learning and empower every student to achieve academic excellence. Our Learning Enrichment program is designed to ensure that all students—regardless of their individual learning needs—have the opportunity to thrive. Whether a student requires additional support or is ready to excel beyond their peers, our dedicated team of professionals is committed to helping them reach their full potential.
Our Learning Enrichment Team includes:
Classroom Teachers
Our Classroom Teachers identify each child’s readiness level and tailor learning experiences to match. Students are often grouped based on readiness, interests, and learner profiles, allowing for personalised learning. Teachers implement tiered tasks, providing common content with varying levels of support, challenge, and complexity. Regular monitoring and assessment ensure that each student’s progress is closely tracked.
Learning Enrichment Teachers
Collaborating with Classroom Teachers, our Learning Enrichment Teachers enhance student learning by working across several grades. They focus on small groups of students who require either support or extension in English and Mathematics. These teachers assist with curriculum planning, deliver intensive reading interventions, conduct assessments and screenings, and help evaluate lessons and student outcomes.
Teaching and Learning Assistants
Our Teaching and Learning Assistants support both Classroom and Learning Enrichment Teachers by helping students develop independent learning skills and take ownership of their tasks. They also deliver targeted reading interventions to small groups in collaboration with Learning Enrichment Teachers.
Gifted Education
For students with exceptional intellectual potential, Claremont College offers a range of programs designed to challenge and stimulate their advanced abilities. These students often demonstrate the capacity to think, learn, and achieve at levels beyond their age. Our gifted education offerings include curriculum differentiation, acceleration, and enrichment programs tailored to meet their unique needs.
Acceleration Programs
Our acceleration programs allow gifted students to advance through the curriculum at a pace that matches their abilities.
- Flexible Ability/Achievement Grouping, K-Y2
Intellectually like-minded students are grouped in mathematics and English, enabling them to accelerate their learning in these subjects. - Spelling Mastery, Y3-Y6
High-achieving students in spelling are fast-tracked through our Spelling Mastery Program, where they learn advanced spelling skills and rules. - Stage-based Mathematics, Y3-Y6
In Terms 2 and 3, mathematically gifted students in Years 3 and 4, as well as Years 5 and 6, are clustered to tackle advanced mathematical problem-solving challenges.
Enrichment Programs
Our enrichment programs offer deep and varied educational experiences that go beyond the standard curriculum, providing greater depth and breadth to stimulate gifted learners.
- Problem-Based Learning, K-6
Students engage in real-world problem-solving, often focusing on environmental issues. This program helps them develop collaboration, self-direction, and intrinsic motivation. - Excelsior, Y3-Y6
Excelsior classes cater to students who advance quickly through the Spelling Mastery program, offering real-life language and literature challenges that foster creative thinking and interpersonal skills.
Provisions
Provisions are integral components of our enrichment programs and may be nominated by teachers or students. These include:
- Chess (K-Y6)
- G.A.T.E. WAYS Workshops (Science, Mathematics, English, Critical Thinking) (Y1-Y6)
- ICAS English Competition (Y2-Y6)
- ICAS Mathematics Competition (Y2-Y6)
- Debating (Y4-Y6)
- Australian Problem-Solving Maths Games Competition (Y3-Y4)
- Australian Problem-Solving Maths Olympiad (APSMO) (Y4-Y6)
- Ethics Olympiad (Y5-Y6)
Curriculum Differentiation
At Claremont College, we recognise that gifted learners require more than just acceleration—they need a differentiated curriculum that challenges them to think critically and creatively. Our teachers adapt the content, processes, products, and learning environments to meet the needs of these exceptional students across all Key Learning Areas.
Content
- Exploration of abstract concepts and generalisations
- Engagement with complex ideas and methodologies
- Diverse learning experiences
Process
- Encouragement of higher-order thinking
- Open-ended exploration and discovery
- Emphasis on reasoning and group interaction
Product
- Creation of products that address real-world problems
- Opportunities for authentic, self-selected projects
- Real-world audiences for student work
Learning Environment
- Learner-centred interactions
- Fostering of student independence
- A flexible and open-minded approach to new ideas and values
At Claremont College, we are dedicated to providing an enriching, challenging, and supportive environment where every student can find joy in discovery and strive for excellence.
Pedagogy
To deliver the NSW syllabus we use a variety of teaching methods to ensure all students can learn and thrive:
- Daily reviews – Students have the opportunity to review previously learned material so that they can identify areas of difficulty and practise their skills. This approach develops a strong foundation of mathematical concepts, builds confidence and engages students in their learning.
- Direct instruction – Teachers explain mathematical concepts and demonstrate problem-solving techniques using models and examples to illustrate concepts. This method lays the foundation for future learning and ensures a clear understanding of mathematical concepts.
- Hands-on learning experiences – manipulatives and games to enable students to actively participate in their learning, making it more interactive and fun. Students can develop critical thinking skills, improve their confidence and develop a positive attitude towards mathematics.
- Problem-solving tasks – We teach a systematic approach to problem-solving, emphasising critical thinking and logical reasoning to find solutions. Students gain a deeper understanding of mathematics and learn to think creatively in a collaborative learning environment.
21st-century learning – We incorporate technology into lessons using online resources and interactive tools to enhance the learning experience. These opportunities prepare students for the technological demands of the modern world.
Next Steps
We understand how important it is to find the right school for your child. Visit us to see our engaging learning environments in action, meet our dedicated staff and explore our colourful classrooms where young minds embark on a journey of adventure, discovery and growth.
