What our students say about Connections

The Connections program this year was truly an enriching educational experience. It has provided me with the opportunity to interact with the wider community who sometimes go unacknowledged. I feel that I have a greater appreciation of the work people complete behind the scenes, and the amount of effort that is put into their work every day.

Year 9 Connections Program

Fostering a greater understanding of who we are

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The Connections Program has been specifically designed by Fintona to allow our Year 9 girls to develop greater awareness of learning beyond the classroom. This unique program encourages greater responsibility for independent learning and reflection, develops team-work strategies, resilience, a sense of belonging and an increased awareness of diversity within our community.

Traditional classes are suspended for one day a fortnight. Year 9 students wear casual clothes as they participate in a wide range of experiences, both on and off campus. During the program, students focus on how communities work and the important contributions individuals can make. Girls visit a range of places, such as the Justice Museum, Electoral Commission, Wholesale Food Market and various art galleries.

During Term 1, the program focuses on ‘How Do We Work Together?', and includes completing learner profiles, and group problem solving activities within and beyond the school. In Term 2, the girls explore ‘What Does It Mean to be a Citizen in a Community?' through activities that include justice, civic, financial and environmental responsibility. Students learn how all levels of government are actively involved in shaping our community, and the importance of current laws reflecting present and future needs of our society. The role of public places is also considered. In Term 3, students ‘Connect with the Community' in an area of personal interest. This opportunity places emphasis on sustained community service. Students will opt to work with a local organization; this may involve working with a local school, church, aged-care facility, library or centre for the disabled. The year concludes with students exploring ‘Informed and Responsible Choices'.