Primary at Freshwater

The early years at Freshwater establish strong foundations for future learning. Reading and writing are taught through explicit phonics instruction, supported by the evidence-based InitiaLit program and targeted intervention when students need additional support.

In numeracy, explicit direct instruction, daily reviews and regular fluency practice build confidence with numbers and essential mathematical skills. Alongside this strong academic focus, students are encouraged to ask questions, explore ideas and develop the independence and positive learning habits that will carry them through Primary School.

In Years 3 and 4, students build on these strong foundations, becoming more independent and ready for greater challenges. Rich novel studies, explicit teaching and inquiry learning encourage students to think deeply, collaborate, solve problems and confidently share their ideas.

At this stage, opportunities also broaden through academic enrichment programs, external assessments and an expanding range of sporting programs and competitions. Students are encouraged to discover their strengths, challenge themselves and take greater ownership of their learning.

In Years 5 and 6, leadership becomes an important part of the learning journey. Students are given increasing responsibility and opportunities to lead, while developing the independence, organisation and confidence needed for Secondary School.

Learning also extends beyond the classroom, with end-of-term exhibitions giving students an authentic platform to showcase their work and share issues they are passionate about with the College and broader community. These experiences encourage students to find their voice, think critically and recognise that their ideas can make a difference.

Alongside their core classroom learning, Primary students participate in specialist subjects including:

• Visual Art
• Physical Education
• Music
• Band Program (Year 5)
• Personal Growth Program (PGP)

At Freshwater, we want every child to feel known, valued and genuinely cared for. Our Primary community gives students a strong sense of belonging, with teachers taking the time to know each child and build meaningful relationships with their families.

Classroom teachers play an important role in supporting students through the everyday joys and challenges of school life. They work closely with families to care for each child’s wellbeing, friendships and personal growth, alongside their learning.

This sense of connection extends across year levels through our buddy programs. Kindy students are partnered with Year 5 buddies, while Prep students are supported by Year 6 buddies. These relationships help our youngest students feel welcomed and confident as they begin their journey at Freshwater, while giving our older students valuable opportunities to lead, encourage and care for others.

Our Deputy Head of Primary (Wellbeing) provides additional pastoral support across the Primary School, working alongside teachers, students and families when extra care is needed. Our College Chaplain is also an important part of our community, providing encouragement, spiritual care and support and helping students grow in their understanding of faith.

Together, these relationships create a Primary community where children feel safe, supported and confident to be themselves, build strong friendships and make the most of every opportunity to learn and grow.

Primary life at Freshwater includes regular opportunities for students and families to come together, celebrate and build community.

Throughout the year, students enjoy experiences such as weekly Chapel and assemblies, annual sports carnivals, interschool sports competitions, Book Week, Grandparents’ Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day events, Science Week and music concerts and performances.

These shared experiences help strengthen relationships and create a strong sense of connection and belonging across our Primary community.

Primary life at Freshwater includes regular opportunities for students and families to come together, celebrate and build community.

Throughout the year, students enjoy experiences such as weekly Chapel and assemblies, annual sports carnivals, interschool sports competitions, Book Week, Grandparents’ Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day events, Science Week and music concerts and performances.

These shared experiences help strengthen relationships and create a strong sense of connection and belonging across our Primary community.

Our Kindy students have regular opportunities to connect with the wider College community throughout the year.

Each week, they visit the College library with our Head of Primary, Dr Greenlees, who leads fun and interactive library sessions. They also enjoy a weekly music lesson with our Primary Music teacher and join our Primary students for Chapel each Wednesday.

Kindy students are also included in whole-College events and celebrations, including music performances, art exhibitions, sports days and the annual Book Week parade. These experiences help children become familiar with the people, spaces and rhythms of College life well before they begin Prep.

Our senior Primary students are gradually introduced to Secondary throughout the year, with opportunities each term to visit Secondary classrooms, meet teachers and become familiar with the learning spaces.

In Term 3, students and their families are invited to a Secondary Meet and Greet, where they can meet key staff, learn more about the Secondary program and tour the facilities.

In Term 4, all incoming Year 7s are invited to take part in a dedicated Transition Day, helping them become familiar with Secondary routines, expectations and spaces as they prepare for the next stage of their learning journey.

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