Our preschool and Mini Explorers nature playgroup focuses on experiences in our local natural environment. We encourage children’s interests and sense of identity and guide them in their successes and discoveries. The preschool program is currently located approximately 5km away in Houghton; however building works for a brand new facility are underway at the Paracombe site.

We acknowledge students in the Early Years learn best through playful learning. Students engaged in play learn about themselves, their environment, people and the world around them; how to solve problems, get along with others, develop healthy personalities and leadership skills, and also develop fine and gross motor skills needed to grow and learn. Literacy and Numeracy lessons are based on enriched tasks that are relevant to real life learning. Buddy programs with older students help settle younger children into school life, enriching the sense of community throughout our school.

In years 2 to 3, students become more independent; they communicate with others more effectively and they begin to develop an ability to take positive actions for their wellbeing. In these years we seek to build the level of participation and intrinsic interest that a student shows in school. The engagement in schoolwork involves both behaviours (such as persistence, effort, attention) and attitudes (such as motivation, positive learning values, enthusiasm, interest, pride in success)

In upper primary, students are challenged to take further responsibility for their learning, and encouraged to explore their leadership skills through collaborating with and assisting younger children in group tasks. We provide a safe and secure learning environment with high expectations, incorporating cross-curricular, interdisciplinary and integrated learning approaches with inquiry-based learning to consolidate their understanding of the world around them. Individual interests are recognised and furthered through our Now, New, Next framework.