Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of an all boy education?
This requires a detailed answer. However, the following observations
have been made:
- boys are less distracted in single-sex schools and more likely
to concentrate on the task at hand
- the curriculum can gear all resources to the specific needs of
boys
- some subjects are more difficult to explore and discuss in co-educational
schools
- in single-sex schools, girls get a better chance in Science/Maths
whilst boys can be more successful in the Cultural areas
- boys learn differently from girls and these needs are catered
for
What are BBC's strengths?
- we offer an all round education: a broad based curriculum designed
to achieve the goal of educating the "whole" person and
to encourage boys to reach their full potential in all areas.
- a structured pastoral care programme
- BBC is large enough to offer a full range of subjects but small
enough to preserve a friendly atmosphere between staff and students
- our students are from a diverse range of social, ethnic and religious
background thus encouraging tolerance and understanding
- well qualified and experienced staff who possess individual strengths
and bring empathy, enthusiasm and friendliness to the task of teaching
- established 100 years ago, we have a long tradition of excellence
and we offer a full range of academic subjects including foreign
languages in all year levels. The College uses a learning and teaching
framework to guide academic learning and teaching. The framework
is based on Dimensions of Learning, Multiple Intelligences, Moral
and Ethical Thinking, and the use of technology to enhance thinking
and learning.
- BBC also offers manual arts and cultural subjects including music,
drama, dance, physical education and life skills
- we are committed to an extensive activities programme, both as
part of the academic curriculum through physical education, drama,
dance and class music, and as an integral component of the co-curricular
life of the school through organised activities including many sports
as well as pursuits such as chess and debating. This commitment
embraces the important objectives of participation, striving and
fair play.
- the arts play an important part in the life of the school. The
Music Department is a busy and greatly respected part of BBC with
class groups and individuals being taught by highly professional
staff from within BBC and from outside the school. Various orchestras,
instrumental ensembles, pipe and drum band and choral groups provide
opportunities for boys to perform regularly in public and tours
have been organised both in Australia and overseas
What are the class sizes?
- Junior School - maximum of 25 in Year 4 and between 25 - 28 in
Years 5 and 6
- Middle School - between 25 - 28
- Senior School - between 25 - 28 in core classes although most
electives are between 15 - 25
How do you overcome Year 8 students feeling
lost in such large year groups?
A number of strategies have been put in place to assist boys to settle
quickly into Year 8:
- transition programme which includes a day experiencing life at
BBC in the November before commencing at the College
- up to 60% of their lessons take place in their Home Rooms
- links between their House and class group
Do you offer an IT Programme?
BBC has integrated IT across its curriculum in all Year levels. A
robotics and multimedia elective is available in Years 9 and 10 and
Information Processing Technology and Information Technology Systems
in Years 11 and 12.
What languages do you offer?
- Indonesian in Years 4 - 6
- French, German, Japanese or Chinese (Mandarin) in Years 7 - 12
What programs do you have for gifted and
talented students?
We offer opportunities for enrichment and extension to all students.
The College has established a centre dedicated to meeting the needs
of student with high intellectual potential. The MAP Centre (Managing
Academic Potential) aims to develop innovative and creative programs
to challenge and extend these students. Subject extension is also
available.
Do you provide bus services?
BBC is only a 5 minute walk from the Toowong Railway Station and is
also serviced by several major Brisbane City Council bus routes. In
addition, the College is accessible via private bus services from
The Gap and Ashgrove areas and the Hamilton and Clayfield areas.
Do you have an outdoor education programme?
An extensive programme is in place for Years 4 - 10. The object of
the integrated programme is to augment the education of each BBC boy
by challenging him to experience an integrated programme of academic,
physical and social skills development in an outdoor environment under
the guidance of experienced instructors. A Leadership Camp is offered
for all Year 11 students.
Do you offer a Music Programme?
Music has always been an important part of BBC and is encouraged and
nurtured at all year levels. More than 450 boys take part in our instrumental
or vocal lessons and are actively involved members of various ensembles,
orchestras, bands, choirs and Pipe and Drum Band
How many female teachers does BBC have?
Approximately 27% of BBC's academic staff are female.
Do they have to do sport if they want to pursue
music and drama?
All students are expected to participate in at least one sporting
activity per season.
When should I lodge my application?
Applications are accepted any time after birth. Although we can offer
no guarantees, provided an application is received within two years
of enrolment,every endeavour will be made to assist you.
Are there opportunities for boys to interact
with girls?
A number of social education events are organised by the College to
provide the opportunity for boys to have interaction with girls such
as school dances and social education. BBC boys also have the opportunity
to interact with girls from our sister schools Clayeld College and
Somerville House.
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