Connecting students to new learning opportunities using technology
The School of Now is an innovative program that uses technology to increase student subject choices in Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese secondary schools. Year 11 and 12 students across different schools have the opportunity to learn together from an expert teacher with specialist knowledge and experience in supporting HSC students. This allows students to sign up for subjects that may not be offered at their home school, including a range of exciting electives like Engineering Studies and Software Design and Development.
School of Now specialist subjects
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Aboriginal Studies |
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Ancient History |
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Economics |
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Engineering Studies |
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English Extension I
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Enterprise Computing |
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HSC History Extension |
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Industrial Technology (Graphic Technologies) |
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Industrial Technology (Multimedia) |
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Mathematics Extension I
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Physics |
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Software Engineering |
How does it work?
Each subject will be assigned an Expert Teacher who will be responsible for the delivery of the online course using Zoom and Canvas.
Students are also allocated a Mentor Teacher at their Home School to support them in undertaking a School of Now unit which includes using both technology and a face-to-face class each term. Online lessons are delivered at fixed times each week with learning activities in between sessions and ongoing feedback and support from their teachers.
How will student learning be assessed?
While Most subjects are Category A Board Developed courses and can be included in the ATAR calculation, VET subjects are also offered through the School of Now.
The assessment of skills and knowledge is content based focusing on subject specific areas, not based on computer competence and informal, ongoing assessment is administered through the online tasks. Formal assessment tasks will be undertaken at Home Schools, adhering to the Home School assessment policies and protocols. Students will receive a report of their progress at the end of each semester.
Learn more about the School of Now
For more information about The School of Now, please contact
Mr Steven Bauer | School of Now Manager
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
Mobile: 0417 424 496 | Email: schoolofnow@parra.catholic.edu.au
Testimonials