Literacy

The 5/6 Literacy program is based on the Victorian Curriculum and research-based best practice, grounded in the study of rich, high-quality literature.

Literacy lessons include explicit teaching of reading and writing skills. Lessons focus on building strong skills in grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary, alongside reading comprehension and writing development.

Students continue to consolidate and apply specific strategies for decoding, fluency and comprehension in reading, and for planning, drafting, editing and improving their writing. There is a strong emphasis on sentence structure, paragraphing, word choice and accurate spelling. Students learn and practise spelling patterns, rules and word origins to strengthen their understanding of how words work.

Teachers provide regular feedback to support growth and help students set clear learning goals. Through consistent practice and high expectations, students develop confidence, accuracy and independence in their reading and writing.

We are proud to foster a strong foundation in literacy that supports students’ success across all areas of learning.

Leadership Program

The Grade 5/6 students participate in a comprehensive leadership and transition program that helps them develop skills for high school and beyond.

Grade 6 students have many opportunities to take on leadership roles across the school, including positions such as School Captains, House Captains, and Captains for Sustainability, Library, SWPBS, STEM, and Art. Leadership activities include running assemblies, representing the school at community events, assisting with school tours, and welcoming visitors. These experiences help students develop responsibility, communication skills, and confidence.

Grade 5 students are involved in the Buddies program, where they work with Prep students, participate in activities, and act as positive role models.

Through these programs, students develop personal, social and leadership skills, build a sense of community, and prepare for the challenges and opportunities of high school.

Maths

We have developed a strong Mathematics approach grounded in research-based best practice, with a clear commitment to explicit instruction and the teaching of problem-solving strategies.

Mathematical concepts and skills are clearly and explicitly taught, modelled and practised to ensure students develop accuracy and fluency. Students are then given opportunities to apply their learning to meaningful, open-ended problems that may have multiple solutions. These tasks encourage reasoning, critical thinking and the use of efficient strategies. Students are supported, challenged and extended according to their individual needs.

Through consistent instruction, practice and application, students build confidence, resilience and positive dispositions towards mathematics.

5/6 Inquiry Units

Over a two year cycle, the Grade 5/6 students engage in a range of inquiry units across multiple curriculum areas. Throughout these units, students investigate significant concepts and questions, develop research skills and think critically about real-world issues.

In some units, students share their learning with others through presentations and ‘Expos’, providing opportunities to communicate their understanding and reflect on their growth.

Across the year, students also participate in engaging, hands-on learning experiences designed to promote curiosity, collaboration and deeper thinking.

Topics studied across the two-year cycle include:

• Physical, Chemical, Biological and Earth & Space Science

• Australian History

• Geography

• Economics & Business

These units support students to build knowledge, develop inquiry skills and apply their learning in meaningful ways.

5/6 Camp Program

The Grade 5/6 students participate in a camp program that alternates camp sites each year. One camp has a stronger focus on outdoor adventure activities, while the alternate year provides an ocean-based experience.

Across both camps, students engage in a range of physical and team-building activities designed to challenge them, build resilience and strengthen collaboration skills. Experiences may include outdoor pursuits, water-based activities and group challenges that promote problem-solving and perseverance.

These camps provide valuable opportunities for students to step outside their comfort zones, develop independence and build positive relationships with peers. Through shared experiences and new challenges, students grow in confidence, responsibility and teamwork.