Bringing Catalyst to the NCEC Conference

September 2022

From 4-7 September 2022, the National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) Conference took place in Melbourne, with presenters from all around Australia coming together to share knowledge and expertise in Catholic Education. 

Patrick Ellis, Education Lead, Catholic Education Archdiocese of Canberra & Goulburn, presented an enlightening session on the Catalyst program to implement the Science of Learning approach in the classroom to realise our bold goals 

1. Every student is a competent reader 
2. High Impact Teaching Practice is visible in every classroom 

Patrick shared the background of Catalyst, which is grounded in evidence-based research of how students learn, with the Science of Learning, Cognitive Load Theory, Science of Reading and High Impact Teaching Practice (HITP), developed aligned with Rosenshine’s Principles of Instruction.  

The session also identified that the most important learner in the system is the teacher. Professional Learning commences with program efficacy through to system-wide events illustrating the journey to high impact teaching. The components of the program are then delivered through online learning and theory sessions. Teachers can then practically apply their knowledge to their practice, supported by HITP coaches. 

The outcomes of the systemic approach to teaching and learning are witnessed in early improvements for student academic outcomes and engagement. Teachers have detailed increasing confidence with their teaching practice and satisfaction with knowing and being able to better respond to student needs.  

With over 700 teachers participating in HITP coaching at 100% of Catholic schools in the ACT and NSW, along with over 350 teachers trained in evidence-based literacy instruction, Catalyst is leading an education revolution. 

Andrea de Carvalho, Master Teacher – Education and Research Directorate, Sydney Catholic Schools said, “Excellent presentation Patrick. Thanks for sharing the tremendous efforts of all at Catholic Education, Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn. So many synergies with approaches taken in Sydney Catholic Schools program Mathematical Expertise and Excellence. Would love to continue the conversation!” 

Beth Murphy – Assistant Deputy Principal Pedagogy and Practice at Mazenod College in Western Australia said “A fabulous session from Patrick Ellis with some big takeaways on moving forward with teacher development.”