The Learning Centre

The Learning Centre is well used during the term with large numbers of students accessing it on a daily basis. It is one of many different study environments provided at SMSHS.

The Learning Centre provides a supervised space for student to work in during class time. It provides a less formal study area than the library where students can interact and discuss their work in a relaxed environment. It is currently staffed each day of the week with teachers from different curriculum areas providing support in their own subject areas and general support in literacy, study timetables and time management.  Students also have timetabled access to ESL support from trained staff.

The facility was refurbished in 2007 and is now air-conditioned. Students have access to 20 computers, however four work areas are set-aside for students who prefer to access their own laptops. A kitchenette provides students with access to tea and coffee making facilities, a microwave and fridge. Students can access these facilities throughout the day, including class time.

Currently there are over thirty students who provide peer tutoring for fellow students. This has provided students with access to a large pool of fellow students who are able to help them with knowledge and expertise and understand the requirements of courses from a student viewpoint. Between them the peer tutors cover almost all the courses offered at St Marys Senior High.

For the peer tutors it provides the opportunity for them to revise their work and challenges them to increase their own level of understanding of the courses. The opportunity for students to provide this community service and communicate with other students provides is also recognized in their reference at the end of Year 12.

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