Primary learning includes whole-class, group, and individual activities designed to develop an inquiring mind and teach basic learning skills needed for schooling and later life.
Literacy and numeracy are the building blocks of learning and that is why English and mathematics take up half of students' learning time in primary school.
A primary school in NSW follows a curriculum based on stages of learning. Each stage is approximately equivalent to two school years. For each learning stage, there are skills, knowledge, and a level of understanding that each student should develop.
We have physical activity programs for children from Kindergarten to Year 6, with a focus on fundamental movement skills.
Sport and physical activity is a valued and accepted part of our school's curriculum, contributing to the development of the whole child. It provides a vehicle for social, physical, emotional, and moral learning and is an important expression of our culture.
The participation, enjoyment, and skill development of our students is the cornerstone of the school sport/ physical activity program. All our students take part in this program.
There are also opportunities to represent our school at inter-school sports competitions.
Students can unleash their creative flair through dance and drama performances, competitions, exhibitions, and enrichment programs.
Students with particular interests and talents can participate in local and statewide activities in visual arts, music, dance, and drama.
Our teachers use a variety of strategies to assess each student's work. This includes observing their work in class and looking closely at the work they produce throughout the year.
Twice a year teachers also assess each primary school student's achievements based on the outcomes described in the NSW primary curriculum foundation statements.
A written report using the grade scale is sent home usually near the end of Term 2 and Term 4, to give you a clear picture of your child's achievements.
Students have several assessments in primary school:
- Best start Kindergarten assessments in literacy and numeracy - helps our teachers to identify the learning needs of your child. National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy(NAPLAN) - assesses students' skills in numeracy, reading, writing, spelling, punctuation, and grammar. All students in Years 3 and 5 sit for four tests in May.
- NAPLAN results help teachers meet the individual literacy and numeracy needs of students. You will receive a detailed written report of your child's achievement in the tests.
You will be given a formal opportunity to discuss your child's progress at a parent-teacher meeting. However, if you have any concerns, don't wait for a parent-teacher meeting. Please make an appointment to discuss these concerns as they arise with the relevant teacher. We monitor each student's progress and provide additional learning support if this is required.
Our school uses learning programs and specialized staff where needed and we work in partnership with parents and carers to assist students who have special learning needs. Our school is committed to working with Aboriginal parents and community members in developing personalized plans for our Aboriginal students.
Gifted students are those whose potential is distinctly above average in one or more of the following areas of ability at school - intellectual, creative, social, and physical. Our gifted and talented program provides these students with learning opportunities on top of the normal curriculum.
Selective high schools provide a challenging environment where high-achieving, academically gifted students can reach their potential. To apply for a selective high school you need to complete an application in Year 5 and students must sit the selective high school placement test in Year 6 to be considered for enrolment.
Some selective high schools accept students for entry into Years 8-12. Applications are available in June and must be made directly to your preferred school.
Parents/caregivers in public schools have the right to have their children receive instruction in their preferred religious persuasion, where authorized teachers of that persuasion are available.
A special religious education program is available at the school and is run by authorized volunteers of approved religious persuasions.
Below is the list of approved special religious education programs provided at the school for 2016. Additional details of Special Religious Education programs on offer at the school can be obtained from SRE providers. Contact details of SRE program coordinators can be provided by the school if required.
Students continue in the same arrangement each year unless a parent/caregiver has requested a change in writing. At any time, you have the right to change your SRE nomination or to withdraw your child from the nominated lessons. A note to the Principal will affect this change.
The religious education program at Burwood PS is conducted on Wednesdays from 9.00 am to 9.30 am.
We have a range of educational options to support students with special learning needs which require additional support.
Every student is entitled to attend an NSW public school. If our school is your local school and your first preference, we suggest you talk to our principal to discuss your son's or daughter's needs and options.
Following your discussion, their learning needs will be assessed so that decisions can be made about whether they would be best suited to learning:
- In a regular class with additional support, or
- In a special class in a regular or special school.
- You will be involved in any decision about the type of support.
After enrolment, we will work with you and your son or daughter to continually review their learning needs at each stage of their education.
