Good Shepherd Catholic Primary has embarked on an incredible journey to discover and nurture the hidden artistic talents of our students through an “Artist in Residency” program. This unique opportunity aims to inspire creativity and enhance learning about watercolour techniques, ultimately supporting the Christmas story art competition centred around ‘The Birth of Jesus and Visit of the Magi’ from Matthew 1: 18–25 and Matthew 2: 9–12.

The Artist in Residency program has been thoughtfully designed to engage students in exploring the captivating world of Visual Arts. Through this initiative, our young learners have been encouraged to unlock their innate creativity, while also developing their understanding of essential watercolour techniques. This process goes beyond the canvas, as it significantly contributes to their overall cognitive and emotional development.

With the guidance of a talented Sydney Catholic Schools artist-in-residence, our students are immersed in a stimulating learning environment, providing them with a unique platform to express their thoughts, feelings, and interpretations of the Christmas Story. The Three Wise Men differentiation extension tasks further empower students, allowing them to reach their full potential as they work towards mastering their artistic skills.

The significance of having an artist in our school environment cannot be overstated. Art plays a crucial role in fostering imagination, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities among students. Moreover, it encourages them to appreciate diverse perspectives and cultures, deepening their understanding of the world around them.

As a Sydney Catholic School, we are proud of curriculum integration enabling our students to flourish as well-rounded individuals. The Artist in Residency program exemplifies our commitment to providing exceptional educational experiences that extend beyond the confines of traditional learning.

Let us continue to foster a love for art and creativity in our students, empowering them to shine brightly and make a positive impact in our world.