Prep

Beginning the Learning Journey at Overport Primary School!

 Prep is a fun and exciting year that enables children to develop many vital life skills. They start to become increasingly independent, establish friendships and become actively involved in their learning and development.

A key feature of Prep is that it is a transition year between home and school. It helps children to link the experiences they have already had with what they will do at school and develop strong connections between the two.

Children are provided with activities that cover a broad range of topics and cater for a range of interests. Play, investigation and hands on learning are examples of some of the ways children explore, discover and learn about new concepts.

Through support and encouragement during day to day activities, Prep children are encouraged to develop their independence and personal organisation. They begin to learn how to work independently and develop the essential life skills of learning to work with others and be an active member of a team.

In Prep, children will be:

• Starting the day with developmental play for all of first term to encourage the development of vital social, communication, team-work, language, expressive and creative skills. This promotes a smooth transition into the school routine. Literacy and numeracy play are integrated into the sessions. Developmental play is a key feature in the program and will continue being run approximately twice per week. Children learn when they play. During play, they make decisions, solve problems, develop thinking skills, collaborate, communicate and develop a positive sense of self.
• Developing an awareness of mathematical concepts through the use of manipulative materials. Concepts are presented in a number of ways for children to explore and are linked back to practical, real life experiences.
• Developing an appreciation for and understanding of reading and writing through learning centre activities. Lessons are designed to incorporate a range of learning styles, abilities and interests. 
• Involved in programs that are designed to cater for children based on individual needs. Activities are planned to ensure children are extended in areas they are strong in and supported and encouraged in areas they are yet to develop.
• Provided with opportunties to work within small groups as well as a whole class.
• Encouraged to investigate concepts, pursue interests and formulate questions to guide their learning.
• Involved in art, computer lab, music, sport and library sessions each week.
• Participating in a perceptual motor program (PMP) to help them develop coordination, balance, hand-eye coordination, body awareness, spatial awareness and other gross motor skills.
• Involved in using Interactive Whiteboards and computers to develop skills across all curriculum areas.
• Involved in integrated studies topics such as Me and My Family, Animals, Change, Safety and Celebrations to explore their questions and develop their understanding of themselves and the world around them.
• Paired up with a Grade Six buddy to ensure a smooth start to the school year. Year Six children will assist the Prep children during recess and lunch times. Throughout the year they have many opportunities to meet and work with their buddies.

             Please visit the following government website for more information regarding Victorian Education http://www.education.vic.gov.au/