Developing Literacy and Numeracy skills are the focus of the curriculum in the Primary School. These lessons usually occur in the morning Teacher Supported Learning session, but are also integrated throughout all subject areas over the course of the day. In the Primary School subject areas include: Literacy, Numeracy, The Humanities, Science, The Arts, Design & Digital Technologies, Health & Physical Education and LOTE.
Primary School Chapel
Each class is asked to lead the school’s Chapel meeting once during each term. Chapel is an opportunity for students to prepare for Christian ministry and present music, drama and other presentations to their peers.
Literacy
Within the literacy program, students focus on Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. The early years approach to reading involves a thorough program that covers 18 months and begins with teaching pre reading skills and follows on with a strong phonic program, giving the students a solid base for independent reading. In the following years reading comprehension strategies and reading practise are emphasised.
During the Primary Years the students will be exposed to a large variety of written texts such as stories, big books, posters, displays and websites. They will see many demonstrations of modelled writing in both draft and finished forms and will learn to select content, form and vocabulary, depending on the purpose of the writing. Lessons will explore different genres of writing which will be modelled and explained to the students. Spelling and handwriting are a large part of this program.
Students communication skills are encouraged through many opportunities to listen to others and present their ideas, both in formal and informal settings such as Show and Tell, oral presentations, class discussions and Chapel performances.
Numeracy
The core skills required for numeracy are taught in the Teacher Supported Learning sessions through workbooks that employ mastery learning techniques. Students work through these at their own pace and level, under teacher direction. Further maths activities that focus on maths strategies and problem solving are provided through the Maths Plus program and additional maths classes.
Integrated studies
A thematic approach is taken to integrate all key learning areas in our Integrated Studies program. Relevant and age appropriate topics are explored each term and incorporate activities that include a variety of subject areas. There is often a focus on The Humanities and/or Science in these themes. The Australian Curriculum requirements are covered through a range of interesting activities related to the theme. Local excursions enhance student learning and occur regularly.
The arts and technology
Art and Technology activities are incorporated into our Integrated Studies themes. The higher Primary students have a weekly art class where they are encouraged to express their ideas and understanding through art. They explore different approaches and techniques in creating artworks. Each class has a weekly music lesson that involves basic skills, performance skills and music appreciation. Opportunity is given for students to use these skills during Chapel performances, participation in a school band, the School Concert and at local community events. Private and small group Instrumental music lessons are available upon request at an additional cost to parents.
Health and physical education
Students attend 2 weekly physical education classes using our Gym and outdoor sporting facilities. The program focusses on developing fitness skills and strategies and are practised in individual and team sports. There is an annual Swimming, Athletics and Cross Country carnival where all students are encouraged to participate. Resiliency and Health lessons are regularly presented using the Bounce Back program. Community services such as the Life Education Van, Responsible Pet Program, and NRL schools programs that focus on health and anti-bullying topics visit regularly.
LOTE (Languages Other Than English)
Grace Christian College studies Indonesian as our Lote subject. Some basic vocabulary and sentence structure is learnt as well as exploring the Indonesian culture.