The Role of Heads of Learning Area (HoLAs): Driving Excellence and Empowering Education
At Mandurah Baptist College Senior School, HoLAs play a pivotal role in shaping the teaching and learning that happens on a day-to-day basis.
Defining the Role
In essence, the role of a HoLA is to manage a specific Learning Area within the College. We have seven discrete Learning Areas in the Senior School – Mathematics, English, Science, Humanities & Languages, Health & Physical Education, Technology & Enterprise, and the Arts. Within their Learning Area, the HoLAs oversee curriculum development, compliance with educational standards, operational matters, departmental administration, as well as leading teachers in implementing effective and evidence-based teaching practices. By consistently staying abreast of emerging trends, research, and best practices within their field, HoLAs also serve as educational leaders who bring vision and expertise to their respective domains.
Facilitating Academic Excellence
Another primary responsibility of HoLAs is to nurture academic excellence within their Learning Area. They set high expectations for both students and teachers and ensure that rigorous standards are maintained. HoLAs also play an essential role in optimising learning outcomes for all students by monitoring student progress, analysing data and trends, identifying areas for development, and implementing targeted interventions and other improvements.
Driving Growth and Professional Development
HoLAs are also responsible for helping to drive the growth and professional development of our Senior School teaching staff. Through fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement in their Learning Areas, and by providing mentorship and coaching, HoLAs empower our teachers to constantly improve and strive for excellence. Within their Learning Areas, HoLAs also guide strategic vision and discussion, facilitate collaborative projects, encourage innovation, and create space for sharing best practice.
Promoting Holistic Education
At Mandurah Baptist College, academic excellence is a priority, but so is a focus on student wellbeing and the development of other life-ready skills such as creativity and collaboration. HoLAs play a central role in ensuring that students’ education is balanced between these priorities so that every student at the College is equipped for the challenges of the modern world.
Joanne Meek | Deputy Principal – Curriculum
