Liturgy & Scripture
At St John of Kronstadt, prayer throughout the day and the weekly Holy Liturgy is central to our educational mission, offering students an experiential immersion into the life of Christ—His birth, death, resurrection, and His Ascension. This sacred practice deepens their faith, enabling them to live it fully. Scripture is integral to our curriculum, providing a foundational understanding of Christian Orthodox teachings. Through regular liturgical participation and scripture study, our students learn to embody and practice their faith, preparing them for a lifelong journey with Christ, the Blessed Mother of God and all the Saints who intercede and pray for us.
Classical Curriculum & Pedagogy
Classical education is experiencing a resurgence today because it emphasises wisdom passed down through centuries, virtue, eloquence, and a profound understanding of what it means to be fully human. At St John of Kronstadt Academy, our classical curriculum is designed to cultivate wisdom and engage students with the great works of literature, philosophy, music, mathematics, art, and history. Through our methods, we provide students with the tools to become mature adults, using both external and internal challenges to strengthen themselves through God's grace. Pedagogy plays a crucial role in this process, as our teaching methods foster deep learning and intellectual curiosity. Through a classical curriculum and pedagogy, we prepare students for Holy, salvific lives anchored in the Christian faith.
Music
Music is a vital component of classical education at St John of Kronstadt Academy, enriching students' spiritual, intellectual and emotional development. Engaging with music fosters discipline, enhances cognitive abilities, and cultivates a sense of beauty and wonder. Our curriculum includes studying and performing classical works designed for strings. Music is a gift from God, allowing us to glorify Him directly. By learning to read music, play instruments, and sing in choirs, students nurture their creativity and develop a deeper appreciation for God's creation, our rich cultural heritage and artistic expression.
Health and physical education
The human body is God's masterpiece and physical fitness is a crucial aspect of classical education at St John of Kronstadt Academy. This is essential for developing well-rounded, fully functioning adults. Regular physical activity enhances students' physical health, mental well-being, cognitive abilities, mood regulation and discipline. Engaging in sports fosters teamwork, perseverance, and endurance. Studies show that physically active children are 20% more likely to achieve higher academic performance and better relationships. Our sports program includes activities such as soccer, karate, and track and field, ensuring that students build strength, agility, and coordination. By prioritising fitness, we prepare students for a balanced and healthy life.
Latin & Greek (biblical)
Latin is a cornerstone of classical education, offering students a unique academic advantage. Studying Latin enhances vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension skills, providing a strong foundation for English and for learning other languages. It deepens understanding of literature, history, and the roots of Western civilisation. Students who study Latin & Greek often outperform their peers. Our curriculum includes introducing classical texts in their original Latin or Greek to give the student a greater appreciation of the text.
Art
Art fosters creativity, critical thinking, divine transcendence and cultural appreciation. Through hands-on activities such as learning about art history, drawing, sketching, painting, and sculpture, students develop visual literacy and aesthetic sensitivity. Engaging with art promotes self-expression, connection, interconnectedness of ideas across disciplines and problem-solving skills, essential for their overall development. Research shows that students involved in the arts perform better academically and exhibit higher levels of emotional intelligence. Art education at our Academy prepares students to excel both academically and artistically.
History
History is integral to classical education and provides students with a profound understanding of humanity and at the same time offers students invaluable lessons from the past to shape their future. Studying history sharpens critical thinking, empathy, and a deep understanding of societal development. Our curriculum explores ancient civilisations, Australian Indigenous history and and the development of the East and the West. By examining past events and their impact on society, students gain an understanding of how the world has adapted and grown. History teaches valuable lessons that inform decision-making and shape a well-rounded perspective on the world, preparing students to be informed and responsible Christ centred individuals.
