Kindergarten to Year 2

Education in the early childhood years (Kindergarten to Year 2) lays the foundation for lifelong learning.  At St Peter's, the modern, purpose built facilities cater for a wide range of learning activities and tasks that support a variety of learning styles and provide for creative and imaginative programs so that each student's full potential can be realised.

Students need the skills, knowledge and attitudes that will enable them to cope in changing times.  Knowing how to learn and being adaptable to changing situations is necessary for survival. The programs at St Peter's deals with the processes of learning rather than trying to teach all that a child needs to know.

The processes of learning are taught in relation to a body of information that is relevant to the student, encompassing the Key Learning Areas of English, Mathematics, Science and Technology, Human Society and Its Environment, Creative and Practical Arts and Personal Development, Health and Physical Education, Languages Other Than English.  In order to develop 'learner-driven-learners', literacy and numeracy teaching using a problem-solving approach, are given priority in the early childhood years.  The curriculum reflects the fact that Australia has an Aboriginal history and viewpoint on social, cultural and historical matters.  Music is also an integral part of the early childhood program.

Students must learn to accept responsibility for their learning and be able to work collaboratively and cooperatively with one another, having pride in their achievements and always seeking to give of their best.  The role of the teacher is that of facilitator and guide, being explicit in teaching so that students become self-disciplined, knowing what is to be achieved and thus meeting the desired curriculum outcomes.  The Early Childhood program at St Peter's encompasses all aspects of development: spiritual, emotional, physical and intellectual.

A student's belief in oneself is of vital importance in their attitude to school, their relationships with their peers and their self confidence.  Childrens' awareness of themselves, their worth as people and the worth of their peers is vital in providing a warm, caring and compassionate environment which fosters a motivated group of children enthusiastic and eager to learn. Student responsibility is fostered and appropriate opportunities for leadership provided within the school and the community.

The Early Childhood School at St Peter's involves a partnership between each family and the school.  For this partnership to be effective all parties need to work collaboratively, in close communication to achieve the desired outcomes. Learning should be seen as fun by the students at this stage of school education.

With each child being happy and safe at school their education will be able to challenge and extend them to progressively achieve their individual potential.