Learn more about blackfriars learner profile

Blackfriars families are receiving, or about to receive, their students’ Semester 2 reports via SEQTA. But what is the Learner Profile?

The Leaner Profile replaces the traditional Academic Report. As well as grades for each subject, it includes formal recognition of students’ actions outside the academic sphere, including involvement in co-curricular activities, engagement in school life, leadership and other notable achievements.

Deputy Principal Brett Knowles said the Learner Profile was a more holistic approach to reporting and aligned to the four pillars of Dominican life – prayer, study, community and service.

“We value all our students’ pathways. The biggest and most important change with the Learner Profile is the different ways to understand the students,” Mr Knowles said.

Deputy Principal Brett Knowles chats to 2024 student leaders. The school’s Leader Profile includes information on a student’s involvement in the life of the school.

“We are looking at the strengths and the capabilities they have that are valuable, which we don’t always see in the classroom and in schoolwork.

“Some students might find it challenging in the traditional classroom environment, and then on a camp, excursion or retreat, we see a completely different side to that student in a completely different context.

“These students might be supporting each other, helping unload the bags from the bus, helping other kids put their tents up and generally showing personal interactions we might not have seen in class.”

Students’ involvement in the co-curricular program is included – and celebrated – in the Learner Profile. Picture: Kelly Barnes

He said the Learner Profile was valuable for all students, even those with outstanding academic records.

“There are always areas they can improve on as young adults,” he said.

“A student might excel academically but need help with collaborative or organisational skills.

“We can also see a range of capabilities from the diverse backgrounds our students have, including those with EAL (English as an Additional Language) and refugee backgrounds.”

It was also a valuable document for potential employers, as it reflected “soft skills” – including attendance, punctuality and co-curricular involvement – increasingly sought after in the workforce.

Student leadership is included in the new Learner Profile.

Principal David Ruggiero said the Learner Profile was also true to Blackfriars’ Dominican faith, with the unique gifts of all students celebrated.

“At Blackfriars, we acknowledge the individuality of each student, recognising and accepting the differences in God-given gifts and talents of every boy,” Mr Ruggiero said.

“In this way, we celebrate each student with respect to his unique character. The learning and teaching model at Blackfriars is personalised for the benefit of each student, enabling authentic growth and success, regardless of academic or social ability.”

Year 11 and 12 reports will be updated with the finalised SACE grade after moderation and external marking. These reports will be released on Monday 16 December.