Fernbrook School
Teaching and Learning
The Philosophies that drive Fernbrook School
We believe that all children are unique individuals who learn in different ways.
With the rise of social constructivist theory (Vygotsky) and fully realised by Loris Malaguzzi in the preschools of the Reggio Emilia movement, educators were finally able to see how these beliefs about children and the importance of creativity translated into practice.
The Fernbrook School Philosophy is influenced by;
Reggio Emilia (the Image of the Child/The 100 Languages of the Child – The Arts)
Social Constructivist Learning Theory
Positive Psychology (Martin Seligman)
The importance of the Natural World in education
Humanist principles (Collectivism/Restorative Practices)
Play Based/Experiential Learning Theory
Junior Primary
Middle Primary
Senior Primary
High School Years
Our Senior Primary class (Grades Five and Six) provides a supportive and engaging learning environment with a continued focus on Literacy and Numeracy, complemented by an increased emphasis on digital technologies. Students are empowered through Learning Agreements and Personal Learning Projects, fostering ownership of their learning. At this stage, wellbeing remains central, supporting students as they develop academic skills, resilience and self-confidence.
Our High School includes students from Years 7–10. Mathematics, English, Science and Humanities are studied in small groups, with mixed-age learning occurring when appropriate. Students continue to participate in TGAL and also take part in Bushcraft, supporting our commitment to sustainable practices and outdoor learning experiences. Health and Physical Education Auslan, Design Technologies and Digital Technologies also form part of each student's timetable. Project-based learning is heavily incorporated into the program, with projects designed around students’ interests. Throughout their time in the High School students are supported to move from carrying out a teacher-led project through one they have designed, planned and carried out independently. This approach is intended to reflect real work life, incorporating deadlines, teamwork, problem-solving and personal responsibility, while developing both independent and collaborative skills.
Our Junior Primary hub, consisting of students from Prep to Year Two, are guided and supported in play-based learning each day. There is a strong focus on the Reggio Emilia approach, which fosters the belief that our students, in their current context, are capable members of society who can make meaningful contributions to the Fernbrook and wider community. Student learning is cultivated through play-based teaching and is largely student-led. Alongside this, we explicitly teach foundational skills in literacy using the Little Learners Love Literacy program, as well as explicit, developmentally appropriate numeracy instruction to ensure strong early learning foundations.
Our Middle Years class (Grades Three to Four) offers a nurturing, multi-age learning environment where strong relationships form the foundation for meaningful learning. Students participate in hands-on experiences that extend beyond the classroom, encouraging curiosity, creativity and real-world connections. Project-based learning is gently introduced during these years, while intentional Literacy and Numeracy instruction ensures students build strong foundational skills alongside confidence, independence and collaboration.
We are guided by the following beliefs;
That all children are unique individuals who learn in different ways and at their own rate
That all children benefit from holistic education (intellectual/emotional/social/physical)
That all children learn best when happy and engaged
That all children have a right to be accepted for who they are
We see ourselves as a dynamic and vibrant alternative to not only mainstream schools, but also to other independent schools.
Fernbrook School facilitates student-led learning across eight multi-age classes:
