Our Vision
At St Joseph’s, we want every child to grow, learn and flourish – becoming both saints and scholars. Our approach to teaching is based on strong educational research and our Catholic, Lasallian values, inspired by St John Baptist de La Salle.
He reminded teachers to “know your students individually” and “show much kindness and love for the young people you teach.”
We believe great teaching touches hearts as well as minds.
Our Principles
Our teaching is guided by two key ideas from learning research:
- Learning lasts when it stays in long-term memory.
We want students to really remember what they’ve learned. - We remember what we think about most.
Lessons are designed to make pupils think deeply and engage actively.
Great Teaching at St Joseph’s
Great teaching combines expert subject knowledge with clear explanations and active learning. Teachers use strategies that help every pupil join in and think hard, such as:
• Asking inclusive questions
• Giving time to think
• Using mini whiteboards for quick low stake, knowledge checks
These approaches make sure everyone is involved and learning.
Strong Relationships
Learning starts with positive relationships.
Our teachers build trust through kindness, fairness, and high expectations. We get to know our pupils well, celebrate success, and support them to keep improving — always showing respect and care rooted in our Catholic values.
Clear Routines
Calm, structured classrooms help pupils feel secure and ready to learn.
We use consistent routines, so lessons start smoothly, transitions are quick, and behaviour supports learning. Predictable routines help all children, especially those who need extra support, to thrive.
ETHIC: Everyone Thinking Hard In Class
We believe learning happens when all pupils are actively thinking hard.
Our goal is for every child to be engaged, answering, discussing, and reflecting — not just listening. When everyone takes part and thinks hard, progress follows.
Building on Prior Knowledge
Each lesson begins by helping pupils recall what they already know.
This makes it easier to connect new ideas and build strong understanding over time. Teachers use discussion, examples, and well-planned sequences to help students link new and previous learning.
Encouraging Curiosity
We want our pupils to be curious learners — to ask questions, explore ideas, and think beyond the textbook. Intellectual curiosity is at the heart of lifelong learning.
Inclusive Classrooms
Every child is valued at St Joseph’s.
We strive for inclusive teaching that meets the needs of all learners, including those with additional needs. Rather than separate approaches, we focus on strategies that benefit everyone — clear explanations, structure, and plenty of practice and feedback.
