Primary

Our Infants Years (Kindergarten - Year 2)

Where strong learners are formed

Kindergarten to Year 2 is where the foundations for learning, thinking, and confidence are built. The infant years are a critical stage in your child’s development. This is where we intentionally build the foundations in literacy, numeracy, and learning behaviours that will shape future success. At the same time, we nurture a deep sense of wonder, curiosity, and confidence, helping each child develop not just skills, but a love of learning.

Strong foundations in literacy and numeracy

We are deliberate in how we teach the essential skills of reading, writing, and mathematics. Through explicit instruction and evidence-informed practice, students develop: * strong reading fluency and comprehension * confident writing skills * solid mathematical understanding We minimise unnecessary screen use and prioritise high-quality teaching, practice, and feedback. By the end of Year 2, students are confident readers, capable mathematicians, and ready for the increasing challenge of the primary years.

Developing confident learners

Alongside academic learning, we intentionally develop the mindsets and habits that support success. Students are taught that: * everyone can learn * effort leads to growth * challenges are part of the learning journey We celebrate progress and perseverance, helping students build confidence in their ability to learn and achieve.

Known, supported, and growing

At this stage, relationships matter deeply. Our teachers take the time to understand each child’s unique needs, strengths, and areas for growth. We support students to: - build positive friendships - develop emotional awareness - learn how to navigate challenges These social and emotional foundations are critical for both learning and life.

Growing in faith and understanding

In the infant years, students begin to develop an understanding of who God is and what it means to know Him. Through Bible stories, prayer, and daily classroom life, they are introduced to: - God’s character — His kindness, goodness, and love - the story of Jesus - what it means to live with faith, trust, and gratitude Faith is not taught as a subject alone. It is woven through relationships, conversations, and the way we live and learn together. Students are encouraged to begin forming a personal and authentic faith, appropriate to their age and understanding.

Understanding who they are

We believe every child is created in the image of God, with purpose and value. In these early years, students begin to develop a clear and secure sense of identity. Through teaching, modelling, and daily interactions, they learn: - who they are - how they are valued - how they are called to live This foundation shapes how they relate to others and engage with the world.

Learning beyond the classroom

Students begin to explore and engage with the world around them. Students develop an understanding of their place within a wider community through experiences such as: - local excursions - visits from community members - learning about their local area They are also introduced to Science, the Creative Arts, and Humanities in ways that spark curiosity and connection.

Partnering with families

Learning is strongest when school and home work together. Simple, consistent routines at home make a significant difference: - reading together each night - talking about learning - encouraging curiosity about the world We value strong partnerships with families as we support each child’s growth.

Forming character and values

Character is intentionally developed from the earliest years. Through our ONYA framework, students learn what it means to be: - kind - respectful - grateful - responsible These values are taught, modelled, and reinforced daily, shaping the attitudes and behaviours that lead to strong relationships and positive learning environments.

"There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a student achieve something they once believed was unachievable. Guiding them through the learning journey and reflecting with them on how far they've come is a powerful and meaningful experience."

Maklet Duffy

Kindergarten Teacher

Our Primary Years (Years 3 - 6)

Becoming independent, capable, and grounded in character and faith

The primary years are where students begin to take greater ownership of their learning, their choices, and their growth. This is a significant stage, as students move beyond foundational learning and begin developing independence, responsibility, and deeper thinking.

Building strong learners

In these years, we continue to strengthen the foundations of literacy and numeracy while increasing both the challenge and complexity of learning. Through explicit teaching and purposeful inquiry, students deepen their understanding, develop higher-order thinking, and learn to apply their knowledge in new and meaningful ways. We are intentional in how we teach. We minimise unnecessary screen use and prioritise: - clear instruction - guided practice - feedback that moves learning forward By the end of Year 6, students are well prepared for the increasing academic demands of secondary school.

Developing independence and resilience

Students begin to understand that learning requires effort, perseverance, and responsibility. We explicitly teach that: - hard work is the pathway to success - challenge is part of growth - persistence builds confidence Students set goals, reflect on their progress, and take increasing ownership of their learning. They learn to navigate setbacks, develop resilience, and build the habits that will support them well beyond the classroom.

Growing in awareness, responsibility, and character

During these years, students begin to look beyond themselves and develop a growing awareness of others and the world around them. They learn to: - consider others - act with empathy - take responsibility for their actions We intentionally shape character through clear expectations, strong relationships, and consistent modelling. Through our ONYA framework, students learn what it means to be kind, respectful, grateful, and responsible — values that shape both learning and relationships.

Understanding purpose and living it out

We believe each student is created with purpose. As students grow, they are introduced to the truth of Ephesians 2:10 — that they are created for good works, prepared in advance for them to do. They begin to understand that: - their lives have meaning - their actions matter - they are called to live with purpose Faith becomes something that is not only understood, but lived out. Students are encouraged to reflect this in their choices, their relationships, and the way they engage with the world around them.

Navigating growth with care and wisdom

The primary years are a critical stage in preparing students for adolescence. We take an intentional approach to guiding students through this season, maintaining clear boundaries and expectations while supporting their growth. We believe in protecting childhood and allowing students to mature at the right pace. We also value strong partnerships with families, recognising that parents play the primary role in their child’s development. We work alongside families to: - support conversations around growth and change - provide guidance appropriate to each stage - equip students with the understanding they need for the years ahead

Experiences that build confidence and independence

Students are given opportunities to grow beyond the classroom. Our camp program reflects this journey: - beginning with overnight experiences in Year 3 - building toward extended experiences, including travel beyond the local area These are significant moments of growth, helping students develop independence, resilience, and confidence.

Ready for what comes next

By the end of Year 6, students are: - independent and responsible learners - resilient and able to persevere - equipped with strong academic foundations - growing in character, identity, and purpose They are ready for the increased challenge, responsibility, and opportunity of secondary school.

"When students enter my classroom, I want them to know they are loved and that they belong. Together, we celebrate progress, encourage one another and grow in the knowledge that we are wonderfully made and deeply loved by God.”

Sky Carden

Primary Teacher

"My heart is for every child to know they are loved and belong. We walk alongside each other in learning, encouraging and celebrating growth, with the assurance God’s love is at the centre of all we do."

Sky Carden

Primary Teacher

Where To Next?

Find your hope-filled future at Summerland