Village School exists to fill an alternative niche in the educational market place. We have a 'small school' policy and a commitment to having a maximum of 20 children to one teacher in our home-groups to realize our philosophical and educational aims fully. We are also committed to maintaining our animal farm and wetlands environment so that 'real life' work experiences are an integral part of the daily curriculum.
We aim to delight and inspire young children to be resourceful, independent learners and to discover and learn in a supportive, caring environment. We celebrate individual differences while at the same time encouraging children to develop an awareness of their place in Australian society and the global community. We want them to understand their role in supporting and caring for each other, living creatures, and the natural environment. Village School chooses to be an independent, non-sectarian, and non-denominational primary school having no specific affiliations with any other educational establishment or educational system.
Village School is an independent, non-sectarian, and non-denominational primary school having no specific affiliations with any other educational establishment or educational system. Our educational philosophy is underpinned by the concept of liberalism and tolerance and promotes humanitarian concerns such as inclusiveness, equity, and universal rights. It follows that Village School does not endorse or favor any particular religious, cultural, or political belief but prefers to consider and compare all ideas and doctrines in the spirit of intellectual inquiry.
The need for Village School was conceptualized in late 1981 after three teachers (and members of the Education Reform Association) Carol Glover, Lola Hill, and Trevor Stasey confirmed their disillusionment with the prevailing structure. The teachers started Village School in 1982 with a leased residence on the Maroondah Highway, Ringwood (owned by Penguin Books). After two years on the site, it was decided to relocate to afford students more space and the school the possibility of growth.
During this time, the teachers considered the current site at 9-13 Holloway Road ( which borders Wonga Park and Croydon North). They were successful in securing a bank loan with a government guarantee, and with Croydon Council approving the school for an enrolment of 240 students from prep to year 10, Village School came to occupy its present site.
We begin with the hypothesis that any subject can be taught in an intellectually honest form to any child at any development stage. It is a bold hypothesis and an essential one in thinking about the nature of the curriculum. Today, this school style is known as a 'democratic school,' awarding students with the responsibilities of running their school alongside their teachers. It means that at Village School, the children have a voice and are heard.
