Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) strives to advance educational research to enhance the quality of education across our system of schools and beyond.
RESEARCH AT SYDNEY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
Our Leadership and Research team guides educational research conducted at SCS. The team also collaborates with established and emerging researchers to investigate areas that will help meet the needs of our students, teachers and communities.
Research at SCS is characterised by collaboration among educators, researchers, and the community, ensuring that findings are directly applicable to classroom practice and policy development.
Our focus is on actionable research that translates theory into practice, drives innovation, and supports the professional growth of our staff.
EXTERNAL RESEARCH AND ACCESS TO DATA
We prioritise studies that align with our Catholic values and teachings and strategic goals, including those that enhance student achievement, promote equity and inclusion, and support leadership development.
All research conducted in our schools follows a rigorous ethical approval process to ensure it aligns with our mission, supports educational excellence, and contributes positively to our communities. Research conducted by external researchers in our schools is approved by their institution’s Human Research Ethics Committee and the SCS Research Panel.
Researchers interested in conducting studies within SCS must read and comply with the ‘Conducting Research In SCS Guidelines‘, complete the online application form, and submit a risk assessment and Research Supervisor Approval document where applicable.
Applications are reviewed by the SCS Research Review Panel, which includes representatives from the Education and Research Directorate and Mission and Identity Directorate. Successful applicants are required to sign an SCS Research Agreement Form before approaching schools for participation.
CURRENT PROJECTS AND COLLABORATION
Our research initiatives encompass internally-led projects and external studies conducted in partnership with universities and other organisations.
Current research projects are varied. They include investigations into the impact of digital technology on student learning, early years literacy development, differentiated instruction in diverse classrooms and leadership practices in Catholic schools.
Other projects continue to explore the role of wellbeing programs in empowering student health decisions and enhancing student engagement and achievement.
These studies are designed to provide actionable insights for educators, contribute to the broader educational research landscape, and directly benefit our school communities by addressing contemporary educational challenges and promoting best practice.
Sydney Catholic Schools has established Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with several research institutions and universities to investigate common areas of interest. Current MOUs include partnerships with leading universities on topics such as innovative pedagogy, pain education, inclusive education, and digital learning environments.
CONTACT US
For more information or to discuss potential research opportunities, please contact our Leadership and Research team by email: research@scs.catholic.edu.au.