If a picture paints a thousand words, crafted on a wall at St Brigid’s School Kilburn is a mural that speaks volumes.
The mural – depicting black and white hands holding, surrounded by flags from many nations – is a powerful symbol of one of the state’s most multicultural schools.
Thirty-five cultural backgrounds are represented among the 130 students, with almost 80 per cent speaking a language other than English at home.
The mural was designed by Year 6 student Ali Al Shinawa as part of the South Australian Living Artists festival in August 2022 and was brought to life on the school’s wall by local artist Iman Elmawey.
“We’re proud that this artwork was created by a student in our school community. What he has drawn shows a connection of how he feels he fits into our school – that sense of belonging,” principal Shannon Correll says.
That sense of belonging is at the heart of St Brigid’s School Kilburn, a place not just of education but of welcoming, where both the academic and wellbeing needs of each individual child are catered for.
Ms Correll is leading the way with learning – she has embraced Dr Lyn Sharratt’s “Clarity” work and has been hailed as the gold standard for Catholic Education South Australia.
Part of this work involves a data wall which helps keep track of every student’s progress in reading, writing and specialised intervention programs.
“Our staff work really hard at ensuring we consistently triangulate data to ensure all students are achieving,” Ms Correll says.
Clarity, a Professional Learning Suite, emphasises the collaborative process of education.
“We worked through learning modules to really individualise our students in getting to know every child in the school – it’s called knowing the faces of our children,” Ms Correll says.
“Every staff member took on the responsibility of supporting our students in their learning. Through that, we’ve been able to see excellence in growth in learning outcomes.”
Students’ personal and wellbeing outcomes are also a priority. A full- time chaplain and wellbeing co-ordinator support their personal and social welfare, while a quiet corner offers a safe space for students with learning needs.
The school is also invested in positive outcomes for families. A community hub supports learning English, citizenship classes and playgroup.
“Research tells us that when parents are engaged in their child’s education, there are better learning outcomes for their children” Ms Correll says.
“We’re an old school – the Daughters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart – and our school pillars are based around being a heart. The hearts of children – that’s our connection.”
Catholic Education South Australia’s holistic educational system gives students the right tools to thrive.
