English - Each class has a 2 hour literacy block each day. At our school the staff work collaboratively to ensure our literacy program both challenges and supports every student, whilst incorporating their needs and interests and preferred learning styles. We have embraced the CAFE (Comprehension, Accuracy, Fluency, Expanding Vocabulary) and the Daily 5 programs as our main Literacy programs. For writing we follow the VCOP program, including the 'Big Write'. By using a range of approaches to assess and monitor individual progress, students work with their teachers to develop their own learning goals.
Maths - We have all come from different experiences learning Mathematics when we were younger. Our classes offer opportunities for students to interact and discuss strategies. Students are encouraged to move around and choose from a range of equipment to help them. Teachers do not encourage only one way or strategy to solve a problem. We recognise there are a range of possible strategies that people use. Students are encouraged to explain the strategies they use and justify and challenge solutions. We encourage students to listen to and give feedback to each other on their mathematical thinking and ideas.
Inquiry - Students in each year level study some subjects using an Inquiry approach. This approach allows the students to further their own learning by doing extra research and study about the things they want to know and learn. This also often includes a lot of hands-on, practical learning.
Physical Education - A large gym and great outdoor facilities such as football and cricket ovals, soccer pitches, multi-purpose surfaced courts and synthetic turf areas allow for all types of games and sports to be played at Forest St PS.
Languages (Chinese) - The school teaches Chinese (Mandarin). Students learn simple words and phrases, and are immersed in another culture through song, dance, cooking and craft.
ICT - The school has a large amount of ICT equipment for use in all areas of the classroom across all grade levels. This includes Smartboards, student laptops, iPads, digital cameras and Video Conferencing facilities. The students also learn about Cybersafety and how to use technology in a variety of ways.
Performing Arts - We are re-starting our Performing Arts program this year with music and drama for all students. We have a well-stocked music room with djembe drums. We also have a school choir for interested students.
Wellbeing - We run a 'Caught Caring' program each week and is announced at Assembly each week. The 'Kids Hope' program offers 1-1 mentors on a regular basis to students in various grade levels.
Library - All classes visit our well-resourced library to relax and read books, or sit in the popular sunken reading well!
Science - Utilising the new Australian Curriculum framework for Science, grade areas cover topics such as bugs, weather, environment, space, volcanoes and much more!
Junior School Council - The school appoints JSC leaders from Gr. 5/6. Each class also has a student representative on the Junior School Council, and they meet regularly to discuss a variety of school issues and ways the school can improve. They also conduct fundraising events for notable charities.
Visual Arts - We have a very busy art room with lots of creative work being produced by the students, which is proudly displayed all around the school, as well as on our Pinterest page.