School Areas

At River Gum Primary we have a multi-age teaching philosophy. It recognises the need for children to be observed and viewed in terms of each aspect of development – cognitive, intellectual, social and physical.

Some of the benefits of this philosophy are:

Children operate at their developmental level rather than their chronological stage of development.
Opportunity for children to be extended and all children to work at their own level.
Younger children become more independent more quickly.
Self-esteem is heightened as each child is encouraged to experience success.
Younger children accept responsibility for their learning more readily as they follow the example of older children in the classroom.
Behavioural problems are lessened as children in a multi-age classroom become more caring and tolerant towards each other.
Children are perceived to develop a more positive attitude to school.

Foundation

In their first year of school, students learn through teaching interactions with others, experimentation, practice and play in the classroom and school community. Priority is given to literacy and numeracy development as these are the foundations upon which further learning is built. Many students who attended Foundation have attended our S.T.A.R (Starting Transition At River Gum) program throughout the previous year. These particular students tend to show outstanding confidence and are familiar with their fellow S.T.A.R friends, teachers and the school yard.

Junior

In the Junior School (Years 1 & 2) priority is given to the important areas of literacy and numeracy development. English and Mathematics are the core subjects for this, however, literacy and numeracy are found in all subjects. By the end of Year 2, students have a much stronger understanding of themselves and have begun to connect with the wider community.

Middle

In the Middle School (Years 3 & 4) students become more independent; they communicate with others more effectively. English and Mathematics continue to be a priority, and literacy and numeracy are developed across all learning areas. The curriculum further builds the essential knowledge and skills in literacy, consolidating ‘learning to read and write’.

Senior

In Senior School (Years 5 and 6), students develop an ability to take positive actions for their wellbeing; they relate to others and communicate well with others; they ask challenging questions and seek answers; they make informed decisions and act responsibly. The development of information and communication technology skills increases across the curriculum at this level.