The Cross-curricular Competencies are four interrelated areas containing understandings, values, skills and processes that are considered important for learning in all areas of study. These competencies reflect the Common Essential Learnings and are intended to be addressed in each area of study at each grade level.

Learners construct knowledge to make sense of the world around them. In Catholic studies, students develop understanding by building and reflecting on the Catholic faith and its teachings and sharing it with others. Understanding develops by building on what is already known, and by initiating and engaging in critical, creative and contextual thinking. Foundational to Catholic studies are the components of scripture, tradition, dignity, relationships and dialogue, each of which involves students in ways of thinking that lead to deeper understanding.

This competency addresses the ability to reflect upon and know oneself, and act autonomously and collaboratively as required in an interdependent world. It requires the learner to be aware of the importance of striving for balance in one's life, sustaining the natural environment, examining perspectives on social and cultural norms and expectations, and investigating the possibilities for individual and group accomplishments.

Interdependence assumes the possession of a positive self-concept and the ability to live in harmony with others and with the natural and constructed world. Students examine the interdependence among living things within local, national and global environments, and consider the impact of individual and collective decisions on those environments.

Literacies are multi-faceted and provide a variety of ways, including the use of various language systems and media, to interpret the world and express understanding of it. Literacies involve the evolution of interrelated knowledge, skills and strategies that facilitate an individual's ability to participate fully and equitably in a variety of roles and contexts - school, home, parish, diocese and other local and global communities.

Social responsibility is how people positively contribute to their physical, social, cultural and educational environments. It requires the ability to participate with others in accomplishing shared or common goals. This competency is achieved by using moral reasoning processes, engaging in communitarian thinking and dialogue and taking social action.