Middle Years
Between Years 5 and 8, girls undergo a unique stage of development. It is a crucial and formative time for them as each girl develops her self-concept and sense of identity. It is a time when girls’ thinking becomes more abstract and reflective and when peer acceptance becomes central to their lives.
At Danebank, we provide learning experiences and emotional support that enhance the smooth progress of students through these years.
Programmes
The focus of Danebank’s middle years of learning is characterised by:
- Learning programmes that promote academic excellence, that challenge students to strive to meet their intellectual capacities and to take responsibility for their learning.
- Committed staff who nurture each student and who devise specific programmes to meet girls’ emotional, social and academic needs.
- Programmes that support diversity and inclusive-ness and enhance students’ experiences.
- Girls experience greater responsibility and decision-making opportunities than in their earlier years.
- Transition from Junior School to Secondary School involves extensive orientation to assist students to make the change easily. Year 11 peer support buddies assist in this process.
- Years 5 & 6 students are taught by a range of teachers although their class teacher still manages core educational matters.
- A range of strategies link Middle School students such as a specific Middle School Chapel.
- The Middle School Innovator makes recommendations to the Middle School Committee.
- Extra challenges are provided through activities such as:
- SLIME Science Club
- Middle School competitions – public speaking, photography.
- Debating opportunities
- Drama Queens Club
- Ceramics Club
