Learning at Old Orchard
At Old Orchard Primary School, we are committed to creating a learning environment where every child feels safe, supported and challenged to achieve their personal best. Our school culture is warm, inclusive and respectful, underpinned by high expectations for learning, behaviour and personal growth. Students learn in organised and well-resourced classrooms where strong relationships and student wellbeing are at the centre of everything we do.
We provide a high-quality teaching and learning program grounded in explicit instruction and evidence-based teaching practices. Our teachers carefully plan lessons to ensure learning is purposeful, engaging and responsive to student needs. Through clear learning intentions, structured teaching and ongoing assessment, students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence required for success.
At Old Orchard Primary School, we believe all students can achieve high standards. Our curriculum is designed to challenge and support every learner, recognising students’ individual strengths, interests and talents. Teachers use flexible and responsive approaches to extend learning, provide targeted support and ensure all students can experience success. Students are encouraged to think critically, work collaboratively, show resilience and take pride in their learning.
Student wellbeing and personal development are a key priority across our school. We explicitly teach social, emotional and interpersonal skills to help students build positive relationships, develop confidence and become responsible members of the community. Our school values and Restorative Practices approach underpin the way we support student wellbeing, encouraging respect, empathy, accountability and strong connections between students, staff and families.
Our teaching and learning programs are aligned with the Victorian Curriculum, which provides students with the knowledge, skills and capabilities they need for success in education and life. The curriculum supports students to:
manage themselves and work effectively with others
understand and engage with the world around them
think critically and creatively
act confidently and responsibly in their communities.
In the early years, there is a strong focus on developing foundational literacy and numeracy skills through explicit teaching and structured learning experiences. As our students progress through the school, they continue to build deep knowledge and understanding across all curriculum areas, including English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Technologies, The Arts, Health and Physical Education, and Languages.
Inquiry learning experiences are carefully designed to connect curriculum areas in meaningful and engaging ways. These units encourage students to ask questions, solve problems, apply their knowledge and make connections to the real world. Critical and creative thinking skills are embedded across all learning areas, supporting students to become curious, capable and independent learners prepared for the future.
At Old Orchard Primary School, we are proud to provide a learning environment where students are supported to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Through high-quality teaching, strong partnerships with families and a commitment to continuous improvement, we empower every child to become a confident, capable and compassionate learner who is well prepared for future success.