On Friday, 27 March 2026, a select group of educators from SCEA schools came together for a one-day intensive professional development session facilitated by Mr Matt Dufty (Manager of Data, Strategy and Analytics – SCEA) and Dr Gregg Weaver (Chief Education Officer – SCEA).
It marked a significant step forward in the authentic integration of Christian faith with mathematics teaching and curriculum, complete with a keynote from Mr Dufty that focused on the connection between faith and learning – specifically within mathematics, as outlined in the draft CHARIS Education Framework.
The session catered to K-12 teachers keen to embed a Christian worldview in their practice, recognising the varied approaches and confidence levels among staff. It emphasised upskilling educators to undertake this foundational work, encouraging meaningful integration of faith and mathematics across all year levels.
Attendees networked, reflected on how Christian belief could shape the teaching of mathematics, and started adapting and planning to incorporate these new strategies. Collaboration, guided reflection, and resource sharing were core elements that equipped teachers with practical tools to enrich both their faith and their mathematics pedagogy.
A central theme was that integrating Christian faith with mathematics isn’t about imposing spiritual meaning, but rather recognising the harmony between God’s creation and the mathematical patterns discovered. This approach encourages students to see mathematics as a way to honour the Creator, fostering spiritual growth and deeper learning. The session promoted the idea that faith and reason can work together harmoniously, offering students a richer perspective on both mathematics and their spiritual journey.
The event was warmly received, with teachers expressing enthusiasm and gratitude.
One participant said, “Thank you kindly for a great session today. I absolutely loved it, and it will definitely benefit students as seeds planted today are cultivated and bloom in the future.”
Another reflected, “I appreciated collaborating with fellow Maths teachers and exploring authentic ways to integrate faith. The diversity of perspectives broadened my thinking, and I valued demonstrations of revealing awe and wonder in mathematics naturally, without it feeling forced.”
Looking ahead, SCEA plans to hold similar professional learning days for other WA curriculum areas, with Science and HASS sessions scheduled for Terms 2 and 3.
These collaborative events will continue empowering educators, forming lives that are responsible, respectful, moral, and ethical – rooted in Gospel-inspired principles.