Tailored curriculum
We recognise that all boys develop differently and therefore need a broad-based curriculum that nurtures them through this development stage by offering numerous intellectual, physical and creative opportunities. With Pre-Primary being the first formal year of schooling, it is imperative that we lay strong foundations with targeted teaching, intervention and enrichment for each child's unique journey.
Hands-on, engaging learning opportunities will be part of your child's everyday schooling experience. They will be empowered to think independently and become active inquirers through play, exploration and investigation.
International Baccalaureate
We teach the Australian Curriculum within the framework of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. Through the IB, our students are encouraged to be curious about the world around them and pursue their areas of interest.
The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) incorporates quality practices based on national and international research and the IB global community. The PYP is an authentic inquiry-based learning and teaching programme that is engaging, significant and challenging.
Through the PYP, your child will be nurtured to become an independent and collaborative learner, and encouraged to have voice, choice and ownership in their own learning.
Enrichment and support
Our Junior School prioritises individual growth and ensures your child's unique needs and abilities are nurtured.
Our Academic Support and Enrichment teams track and monitor each student from the day they start at Scotch with regular meetings with teachers and our Deputy Head of Junior School (Teaching & Learning). This ensures that students receive adequate support, extension and enrichment.
We foster safe classroom environments and an inclusive learning culture, enabling each child to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
Nature School
Through our Nature School Programmes, our students learn in an environment that promotes creativity, problem-solving, increased engagement and wellbeing. In Pre-Primary, Bush School takes place in our purpose-built Bush School space adjoining Lake Claremont.
In Year 1 and Year 2 the children transition to Beach and River School. This authentic nature programme ensures they are experiencing active, fun and interactive learning at its best. Our Nature Pedagogy enables children to explore through their innate sense of wonder, ignite their natural curiosity and develop a sense of responsibility for the care of their world.
Specialist subjects and co-curricular
In Pre-Primary we believe it is crucial for young learners to have a broad educational experience. Specialist subjects such as Bush School, French, Physical Education, Visual Arts, and Library are integral in fostering a well-rounded curriculum that is engaging, fun and exciting. Taught by experienced educators, these subjects allow students to explore diverse disciplines, discover new interests, and ignite passions that can influence their future educational paths. This exposure not only enriches their knowledge base but also enhances their cognitive, social, and emotional development.
Our students participate in co-curricular activities before or after school to further enhance their interests. Some examples include sports such as Minkey (Hockey), soccer and creative arts.
Co-educational experiences
Interactive and engaging learning environments are crucial to the unique educational needs of boys. We know how to teach and reach boys, ensuring we provide the method and learning style that suits their needs. We also provide opportunities for them to interact with girls from our sister school, Presbyterian Ladies' College. This fosters a collaborative atmosphere that benefits all participants.
The integration of Bush School lessons and Beach and River School activities not only enriches the curriculum but also promotes social skills and cultural exchange. These joint learning experiences are invaluable, as they help students develop a well-rounded perspective by interacting with peers in diverse settings, preparing them for a globalised world. We cater to how boys learn best whilst also providing opportunities for them to socialise and learn with girls.
State-of-the-art facilities
Our classrooms are dynamic learning spaces which are designed to cater to various activities to foster engagement, collaboration, individual work areas, spaces for relaxation, and exploration. These environments can significantly enhance the educational experience, making learning both effective and enjoyable.
Research indicates that boys benefit from physical activities, which enhances their concentration back in the classroom. Our school provides an extensive area for recreation, offering a variety of facilities including diverse large playgrounds, basketball and handball courts, and a vast oval field giving them ample opportunity to play, run and explore.
Other state-of-the-art facilities include:
- Art Studio
- New Nature Playground space
- Black Thistle Pirate Ship playground
- Bush School on our own site adjacent to Lake Claremont
- Junior School Library
- Scotch College Playing Fields
- MacKellar Hall (enclosed gymnasium)
- Performing Arts space
- 50m heated swimming pool
- Peripatetic Music instruction rooms
- Private consultation rooms for Academic Support, Psychologists, Speech and Occupational Therapy
