Curriculum
We deliver the Victorian Curriculum with a focus on high-quality teaching and personalised learning pathways for every student.
Our Approach to Learning
At Glen Park, we believe every child learns differently. Our small class sizes allow teachers to tailor instruction to each student's strengths, interests and learning style.
We combine the Victorian Curriculum with innovative teaching practices to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences.
Glen Park is very well-resourced with abundant teaching resources, learning tools, ICT and a library second to none. Our focus is predominantly and unashamedly on Literacy and Numeracy and on using ICT to support that learning.
We have a one to one iPad ratio and the seamless implementation of that into a powerful learning tool for students was the focus of our previous strategic plan.
Inquiry Based Learning
We use literature as the focus of our integrated studies and enhance that approach through inquiry based learning (with a focus on questioning, thinking and research skills) designed to have students take more responsibility for the progress and organization of their learning. There is also a strong focus on creative responses to learning and children are provided with ample time and resources to display their creativity and imagination in response to our theme studies.
Children are actively involved in prioritising and interpreting their learning through a close collaborative relationship with their teacher, resulting in genuine personalised learning.
Their learning is proudly displayed and a portfolio of their learning is maintained enabling them to reflect on what they have studied.
English
A comprehensive literacy program covering reading, writing, speaking and listening. Students develop strong communication skills through evidence-based teaching practices.
Numeracy
Building confident mathematicians through hands-on problem solving, real-world applications and differentiated instruction to meet each student's needs.
Science
Inquiry-based science education that encourages curiosity and critical thinking. Our rural setting provides unique opportunities for environmental studies.
LOTE
We have access to the resources (teaching and material) of our regional MARC Van and teacher, Katie White.
Digital Technologies
Modern devices and coding programs prepare students for the digital future. Every student has access to iPads and laptops.
Visual Arts
Creative expression through drawing, painting, sculpture and mixed media. Students showcase their work at exhibitions throughout the year.
Excursions
We organise four major excursions every year.
- a Zoo excursion - Alternates between the three Melbourne zoos, Penguin parade, Ballarat and Halls Gap Zoos and the Aquarium
- an arts excursion – we go to the theatre in Melbourne to see a performance (in 2023 it was Mary Poppins)
- a science excursion – Often to Science Works but for the next few years we will have full day science incursions by from a scientist from Swinburn.
- a history excursion – landmarks across the state, including museums and Sovereign Hill.
We also have many smaller local excursions including our term 3 swimming/gymnastics program at the Ballarat Aquatic Centre and a lot more.
All camps, including the Somers Camp on alternate years, and excursions are free for our students.
We have the MARC Van (mobile library) visit for a day every fortnight and we also offer tutoring and Music Therapy.
Student Wellbeing
Student well-being is important at Glen Park and treating children as equal partners in their learning supports an engaged and enthusiastic cohort of students.
It has always been our intention to create and foster a school learning community which values the interaction between and contribution from students, teachers and parents. We have an open door policy at Glen Park where parents and interested community members are welcome to participate in our programs and daily life.
In short Glen Park is an ideal school for ‘children who want to learn’. A safe and supportive learning environment is the hallmark of Glen Park Primary School.