We value each child as a capable and competent learner, with multiple ways of thinking, playing, exploring, speaking and doing. We believe it takes a village to educate a child; we value a team approach, collaborative planning, teaching and support for children. Children are exposed to a wide variety of educational opportunities that encourage self-expression, communication, logical thinking and problem-solving. The learning environment is open and free-flowing, enabling exploration, play and learning. Outdoor spaces are valued as highly as classroom and common spaces.

Wellbeing is the foundation of learning. Students experience secure, respectful and reciprocal relationships with their teachers, parents and peers. They have a strong sense of wellbeing and feeling of belonging. There is equity and respect for diversity. Their learning is holistic, not linear. We consider each child’s social, emotional, spiritual, physical and educational needs. Their learning is dynamic, relevant and guided inquiry-based, building upon what they already know, understand and do. They have agency and are actively involved in the learning process. They are given time and space to work towards individual learning goals, measuring and celebrating personal growth throughout the year. They have quality play experiences as well as intentional teaching. There is continuity of learning and carefully planned transitions. There are high expectations for every child, every day, for their learning progress, wellbeing and achievement.

Our newly completed purpose-built MacKillop Junior School and Reception Learning Community encapsulates our beliefs about how children learn best and provides the perfect environment to help young children grow and develop into confident, competent learners.

The creative use of flexible indoor and outdoor spaces provides children with better access to ‘real world’ and incidental learning experiences which deepen connection to place and environment.

Curriculum policy and practices at Tenison Woods College are guided by the Australian Curriculum. We look towards the future learning needs of students and emphasise authentic use of Information Technology, critical thinking, collaboration and communication. Junior School children are provided with opportunities to build on their knowledge in an active and participatory fashion through authentic, real-world situations. Teachers consider each child’s preferred learning style and children are given the opportunity to collaborate and learn from each other.

The Junior School classroom academic program includes the learning areas of Religious Education, English, Mathematics, Humanities and Social Sciences (History and Geography), Science, Technologies and Health. Specialist learning areas are currently Physical Education, Languages (Italian), Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden and The Arts (Music, Dance, Drama, Visual Arts).