We plan all teaching and learning sequences using the Australian Curriculum. The Australian Curriculum provides a structured framework for education covering key learning areas such as English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, Health and Physical Education, Technologies, The Arts and when possible Languages. It focuses on developing essential general capabilities such as literacy, numeracy, and critical and creative thinking. Additionally, it incorporates cross-curriculum priorities like Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures and sustainability to connect learning with broader societal issues. The curriculum is designed to be flexible and progressive, supporting students’ development year by year.
English and Mathematics are planned in teams to ensure that the programs developed meet the needs of students across all cohorts. K-2 classes use the University of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI) Foundations program to support the explicit teaching of phonics and spelling patterns, while Heggerty focuses on phonemic awareness skills. Across K-6 reading comprehension, accuracy and fluency, vocabulary, spelling and writing strategies are explicitly taught through the use of Big Books, targeted small group opportunities and/or 1:1 conferencing with students. Home reading is encouraged to consolidate these skills.
Learners across P-6 engage in mathematical learning based on Australian Curriculum Achievement Standards. In 2025, teachers will begin incorporating the work of Paul Swan as well as indigenous perspectives in mathematics. Hands-on maths is crucial for developing a strong foundation in mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills, while also integrating indigenous perspectives. Engaging in interactive and tangible activities allows students to see maths in real-world contexts and understand its relevance across different cultures.
To meet the curriculum requirements of Science, HASS, The Arts and Technology, teachers use Understanding by Design to develop integrated units of work. These units provide opportunities for students to develop knowledge, skills and understanding of our world in science, history and the environment. Year 5 and 6 students have access to the Instrumental Music Program (IMP). More information on IMP can be found here - Home - Instrumental Music Program (imp.act.edu.au).
All students participate in an explicit SEL (social-emotional skills) learning based on Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationships (RRRR) materials as well as Berry Street Education Model. The RRRR learning materials include eight Social and Emotional Learning topics across all levels of primary and secondary education:
- Emotional Literacy
- Personal Strengths
- Positive Coping
- Problem Solving
- Stress Management
- Help Seeking
- Gender and Identity
- Positive Gender Relationships.
Physical Education, SEL (social-emotional learning) and The Arts are taught as specialist subjects and all students across K-6 have access to these specialist teachers throughout the week. Specialist subjects may change every year based on the needs and interests of students, student data and staff specialisation.