Older Primary
In the older primary classes, the students prepare to meet the enormous changes that accompany adolescence. The teacher appeals to the healthy instincts of the children to make choices that are good for the self and others. Students seek greater independence and avenues to express their growing strength and individual natures.
Intellectual stimulus, artistic accomplishment, physical challenge and opportunities to make and do, support the growing sense of ‘I am a powerful being with things to do the world’. There is a strengthening interest in the outside world; questions and exploration are encouraged. Perspectives are considered, observation and characterisation are cultivated which keep to an open mind, rather than judgements and fixed conclusions which tend to the opposite.
Biographies which highlight the finer human qualities and the achievements that come from striving and persevering are very educative. Interest and curiosity for life are carefully nourished as capacities for lifelong learning. Excursions are an important way of taking classroom learning into relevant and meaningful connections to the world around them.
Social life can be full of ups and downs and provides fertile growth for social and personal growth. Through it all, the children become good friends and a culture of friendship supports each to develop his or her potential. Camps, concerts, plays, presentations and class projects connected to the wider community, provide opportunities for a sense of class cohesion and the felt triumph of working together to achieve common goals.
Major Projects are a substantial element in the Class 6/7 Transition Year between primary and secondary school. The students are ripe for pursuing a personal passion with the support of the school, parents and a chosen mentor. As well as learning specific technical skills, the students develop planning and organisational skills, and get to ride the roller coaster of dead-ends, deadlines, and finally, glorious success and accolades for their accomplishments.
