Thrive, Connect, Grow at Middle School

Years 7-9

At Encounter our Middle School provides a nurturing yet challenging environment where students grow academically and socially, in a safe and encouraging environment. We believe that each student is a gift from God, uniquely created with talents and potential that we are committed to developing. Our approach ensures a smooth and supported transition from Junior School to Middle School, guiding students through this critical stage with care and intention.

We emphasize high-quality teaching and a global perspective through the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP), fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and real-world problem-solving. The IB Learner Profile develops attributes such as open-mindedness, resilience, and principled action, preparing students for success in an interconnected world.

Our broad and balanced curriculum includes core subjects, including languages, the arts, design, humanities, and physical education. Through Project-Based Learning (PBL) and inquiry-driven experiences, students engage deeply with concepts, develop creative solutions, and take ownership of their learning.

A cornerstone of our school is student wellbeing, guided by Positive Education philosophies that nurture emotional intelligence, resilience, and a growth mindset. Through pastoral care from our home class teachers and Wellbeing Team, we create a supportive environment where students flourish academically and personally.

Ultimately, our Middle School inspires students to become lifelong learners, compassionate leaders, and active contributors to their communities, all while fostering a strong sense of faith, purpose, and wellbeing.

Jon Grear | Head of Middle & Senior School

Middle School Curriculum Guide

Please view our Middle School Curriculum Guide and the subjects we offer our students in Years 7, 8 & 9 as part of our IB Middle Years Program.
 

International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP)

The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) is a globally recognized educational framework designed for our students in Years 7-9. It fosters holistic development through a rigorous, inquiry-based approach that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and real-world application of knowledge.

A key feature of the MYP is Interdisciplinary Learning, which helps students make meaningful connections across subjects, enhancing their ability to solve complex problems. The IB Learner Profile further supports this development by instilling attributes such as being principled, open-minded, and reflective, shaping students into lifelong learners and responsible global citizens.

The MYP promotes Inquiry-Based Learning, where students actively explore concepts through research, collaboration, and experiential learning, fostering curiosity and independent thought. While embracing the IB philosophy, our school also ensures alignment with the Australian Curriculum, integrating essential learning areas and achievement standards to meet national educational requirements.

By blending the IB’s global perspective with the structure of the Australian Curriculum, the MYP provides a well-rounded, challenging, and engaging education that prepares students for senior studies and beyond, equipping them with the skills necessary for success in a rapidly changing world.The areas of learning are:

• Language and Literature (English)
• Science
• Individuals and Societies (History and Geography)
• Religious Education (Christian Studies)
• Arts (Dance, Drama, Music and Art)
• Design (Wood Technology, Digital Technology & Food Technology)
• Mathematics
• Language Acquisition (Japanese)
• Health and Physical Education

Inclusive Education

The Encounter Lutheran College ‘Inclusive Education’ team aims to meet the unique learning needs of those students who require individualised education programs. They may have specific learning disabilities, temporary or long standing problems with certain subjects. Adaptive Education staff function as the conduit between teachers and home; curriculum, teaching strategies, assessment procedures, reporting and timetable structures can be adjusted to suit the individual’s needs.

Students can access:

• In class 1:1 or small group support
• Assistive technology and programs
• Maths/Science/English Help (lunchtimes) and Homework Club (after school)
• Touch Type Read Spell (TTRS)
• GPS Café (innovative, hands on, literacy, numeracy and social skill development)
• Withdrawal support, on a needs basis, which includes students being involved in literacy, numeracy and social enrichment focus classes.

Students with additional or specific needs are provided for on an ‘as advised or recommended’ basis. Our teachers and support team are trained to meet the needs of students and work closely with a range of para-professionals in implementing speech, fine and gross motor skills, behaviour, social and learning intervention and support programs.

Close monitoring of student progress while maintaining an open and positive relationship with parents and carers is our priority.

Camps

A rigorous and exciting Camp Program is offered to students in the Middle School as follows:

• Year 7 – Robe “Connect” 
• Year 8 – Grampians  “Explore”                           
• Year 9 – Flinders Ranges  “Courageous”   

These camping experiences give our students the opportunity to learn more about who they are and what they can achieve. They are challenged in a safe and supportive environment to learn resilience, as well as collaborate with other students in a range of challenges.