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
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 four multi-age classes:
Junior Primary
Middle Primary
Our Junior Primary Class, consisting of students from Prep to Year One, are guided and supported in play-based learning each day. There is a strong focus on the Reggio Emilia approach to learning that fosters the belief that our students in their current context are capable members of society that can make meaningful contributions to the Fernbrook and wider community. Student learning is cultivated through play-based teaching and is largely student-led.
Senior Primary
Our Middle Years class, comprising of Grades Two to Four, provides a multi-age learning setting that promotes positive connection and relationships as the conduit to effective student learning. Project-based learning evolves throughout a student's years in this group as they prepare for the High School years. Students engage with hands-on learning activities that go beyond the four walls of the classroom. These formative years also call for intentional instruction in Literacy and Numeracy so that our students develop these important life skills.
High School Years
Our Senior Primary class comprises of Grades Five and Six. This class continues to be held in a supportive environment to learn literacy and numeracy with an increased focus on digital technologies. Student-led learning is achieved through Learning Agreements and Personal Learning Projects. Our priority is to nurture these growing children by focusing on their wellbeing first and then academic skills.
Our High School class includes Years Seven to Nine (Year 10 will begin in 2025). A more prominent focus on project-based learning is incorporated into the teaching and learning. We find this way of learning emulates closely the general demands and pressures of the workforce once those opportunities are pursued by our students. Our students develop both independent and collaborative learning skills and they also engage in literacy and numeracy learning in targeted groups.
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