51СʪÃÃ

In the Secondary School Preparation Program, known as SSPP, classes focus on effective communication and involve speaking, listening, reading, writing, grammar and vocabulary development. The goal for students is to enter Secondary at 51СʪÃÃ, so the course also aims to develop their study skills, research skills and critical thinking skills.

A key component of SSPP is the Neuroscience Education Program which examines the power and potential of the brain God has given us to continually grow in capacity and in new healthy directions. This knowledge fosters hope, determination, and a brighter outlook on life for students. It creates a platform for information and discussion about culture shock, negative self-talk, loneliness, anxiety and stress, as well as practical coping strategies. The program creates opportunities to try out various techniques that help develop resilience such as gratitude, prayer, visualisation, positive self-talk and healthy lifestyle choices.

Every opportunity is provided to encourage friendships with Australian students so that English conversational skills and knowledge of Australian culture develop. Every day, SSPP students have the opportunity to spend morning tea and lunch on the Secondary campus with the Australian students. They also attend sport, chapel and weekly assembly.

Testing is conducted at regular intervals and student progress in listening, speaking, reading and writing is measured using the Secondary EAL Bandscales. Parents receive a progress report at the end of each term.

The main objective of the course is to ensure students achieve an acceptable level of English language proficiency for mainstream course entry:

• For Years 7 to 9: a minimum of Level 5+ in all areas
• For Years 10 to 12: a minimum of Level 6 in all areas.

By the end of the SSPP course, students will have developed the language skills, social skills and study skills to be able to participate fully in the Secondary classes and school life of 51СʪÃÃ.