Learning
At our school, we teach the NSW curriculum and offer many different subjects to support each student’s learning. We know that development of skills in literacy and numeracy are the building blocks for learning and for everyday life. Our teachers use effective teaching strategies to help students achieve their goals.
At Para Meadows school, we believe that effective communication is fundamental to every student’s learning and development. For many of our students, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools and tailored communication support are essential to unlocking their full potential and enabling meaningful interactions within the school community.
AAC and communication support are integrated into all aspects of the school day at Para Meadows. We work collaboratively to:
· Assess individual communication needs
· Develop customised AAC systems and strategies
· Provide ongoing training and support for staff, students, and families
· Incorporate AAC tools such as communication books, speech-generating devices, gestures, and symbol-based systems into classroom activities and social settings.
For more information about AAC and communication supports at Para Meadows, or to discuss your child’s individual needs, please contact us.
Literacy instruction has been developed around the 4 blocks literacy model, author Cheryl Mahaffey Sigmon. This model allows for flexibility and has the ability to be multi-leveled, as well as providing interesting and engaging lessons for all students, both verbal and those with complex communication needs.
Repetition with variety
Our philosophy centers on the delivery of quality literary experiences for all students through a wide range of text type and genres. We aim to present literature that is age appropriate and developmentally appropriate, while maintaining a consistent approach to literacy instruction from Kindergarten to Year 12.
The four blocks; guided reading, self-selected reading, writing and working with words, represent the four different approaches to teaching children to read. By working within each of the four blocks every day we aim to provide an instructional model that suits the diverse learning needs of individual students.
Why choose us for your child’s learning?
Strong foundations
We focus on the skills your child needs to succeed in school and beyond. This helps them feel confident and prepared for the future.
High-quality education
We offer a range of subjects to match what students enjoy and want to learn about. Our skilled teachers support every student to find what they love, do their best and succeed.
Inclusive and personalised learning
Our teachers adjust how they teach to suit your child’s needs, interests and learning pace. We make sure every student feels confident and supported.
Extension opportunities
Some students are ready for more challenges. We offer open-ended tasks, enrichment programs and support. We help all students to reach their full potential.
High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE)
What students learn
Students learn a wide range of subjects in the NSW curriculum. They build skills, think creatively and prepare for life beyond school.
Our learning approach
Our school uses explicit teaching. This means we clearly tell students what they are learning, why it is important and how to do it step by step. Explicit teaching helps students understand new ideas by breaking them into smaller parts.
Learning at our school is student-centred, inclusive and practical. We are committed to equity and access. We support all learning styles and needs. Our teachers use proven teaching strategies. They take part in ongoing professional development to stay up to date with best teaching practice.
Our learning approach includes:
- real-world learning: hands-on tasks, group work and exploring new ideas
- technology: to help students learn and build digital skills
- flexible teaching: the right support for each student, with a focus on wellbeing
- community connections: through excursions and local programs.
Helping students progress
We support every student’s academic progress by:
- checking their progress and giving clear and timely feedback
- setting learning goals with each student
- giving extra help with personalised plans and support from specialist staff
- reporting on each student’s learning progress so parents and carers know how their child is doing
- providing targeted literacy and numeracy support in small groups
- making wellbeing part of everyday learning
- working with families to support learning at home and school
- helping students through transitions, like starting school or moving to a new stage of learning.
Learn more about additional learning support at our school.
Want to know more about our subjects?
We can connect you with the right teacher or staff member.
Student opportunities and activities
Discover clubs, sports and other activities your child can enjoy at school.
Our principal and staff
Get to know our principal and staff, who work together to create a positive school culture.