The Religious Education curriculum at the College is at the heart of our educational program and as such the role of Religious Education at St Mark’s combines a religious studies approach with a faith development approach.
A religious studies approach to Religious Education sees a study that is “inclusive of the range of religious traditions which have been, and continue to be, a major part of the human story.”
A faith development approach sees Religious Education as existing in order to maintain and promote our Catholic faith. As such, it has the major aim of supporting and evangelising the personal faith of students.
St Mark’s College, coupled with the Salesian Charter, offer immense possibilities for the spiritual growth of the students, families and staff of St Mark’s College.
Under continuous development, the Religious Education Curriculum is in an exciting time of renewing and focussing on:
St Mark’s College is an integral part of the local and universal Church: a community of people sharing a common belief in the Gospel and with its focus on the life of Jesus Christ.
St Mark’s College is the Parish School of St. Mark’s Parish and receives its mandate as a Catholic school to proclaim the Gospel in the name of the Bishop, the principal pastor and teacher of this Diocese.
As a Catholic school, St Mark’s College seeks to educate the whole person, and integrate faith with the culture and life of a developing young person in Australian society.
Being a vibrant Christian community, St Mark’s College seeks to deal with all those with whom it is in contact — child, parent, teacher — as unique individuals, each having their own gifts and abilities to be developed to their fullest potential.
Curriculum is to be developed that discriminates against no-one in any way but opens the full breadth of learning experiences and opportunities for excellence to all students enrolled at St Mark’s College.
St Mark’s College community recognises the primary right and duty of parents to be educators of their children. It therefore accepts the role of co-educators, leading young people along the path of maturity to be responsible and responsive Christians in the society in which we live.
Our students in Year 7 are invited to participate in preparing for the celebration of Confirmation. The emphasis on this Sacrament is on Christian service and witness with students actively engaged in learning within the local and diocesan church. Students have the opportunity to interact with Bishop Greg O’Kelly and to proclaim their commitment to their faith and a renewal of baptismal promises.
No students are excluded as the topics covered encompass the well being of self and others and therefore assist all students in developing pastorally, regardless of their religious affiliation.
Students who are not in Years 3, 4 or 7 who would like to prepare for Sacraments are advised to contact the St Mark's Presbytery on 8632 3977 for further details.