Learning Program

At Exeter we pride ourselves on the rigorous academic programs we offer. We are acknowledged as a centre of educational excellence in the wider educational community. Our school’s curriculum follows the Australian Curriculum, which sets out what all young Australians are to be taught, and the expected quality of learning as they progress through schooling. The Australian Curriculum is being developed progressively. In 2018 at our school, the learning areas of English, Mathematics, Science, HASS (History and Social Studies), and Heath and Physical Education will be aligned with the Australian curriculum. Our curriculum also includes a focus on seven general capabilities (literacy, numeracy, information and communication technology competence, critical and creative thinking, ethical behaviour, personal and social competence and intercultural understanding) and three cross-curriculum priorities (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures, Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia and Sustainability).

Zones of Regulation:

At Exeter Primary School our Social and Emotional learning is based on the Zones of Regulation program. This is a program that supports our behaviour management policy through the explicit teaching of skills and strategies to help our students self-regulate and take greater control over their emotions. The program is structured around 4 zones:

The Red Zone is used to describe extremely heightened states of alertness and intense emotions. A person may be elated or experiencing anger, rage, explosive behaviour, devastation, or terror when in the Red Zone.

The Yellow Zone is also used to describe a heightened state of alertness and elevated emotions; however, one has some control when they are in the Yellow Zone. A person may be experiencing stress, frustration, anxiety, excitement, silliness, the wiggles, or nervousness when in the Yellow Zone.

The Green Zone is used to describe a calm state of alertness. A person may be described as happy, focused, content, or ready to learn when in the Green Zone. This is the zone where optimal learning occurs.

The Blue Zone is used to describe low states of alertness and down feelings, such as when one feels sad, tired, sick, or bored.

Extension and Enrichment:

Extension and enrichment programs are offered to students on a regular basis. Programs offered include: Writing, Maths, Art, LOTE, Science and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, ars and mathematics).

Flexible Learning Environments:

Flexible learning programs are offered at our school and provide a variety of alternate programs including cookery, origami, mindfulness, relaxation, life-skills, music therapy, gardening, fine and gross motor support, and community access.

Library:

Exeter has an outstanding library. Classes are timetabled to visit and borrow weekly. Children and parents may borrow. To help care for books, library bags are required.

LOTE:

Our Language Other Than English program provides students with the experience of learning another language and about the culture of another country. French is the language we are currently studying.

Music:

All children have the opportunity to experience music through both creating and performing. Choir is offered as a musical experience for students. Our choirs perform at community events such as Anzac Day. Instrumental tuition and band ensemble are available through the Esk Band Program for Grade 3-6 students. Private music tuition is available for piano and guitar.

Move Well Eat Well:

We are Move Well Eat Well School and are committed to actively promoting healthy eating habits and daily physical education. We have a water policy which states that our classrooms are water only zones. All children are asked to use clear water bottles and drink water only during the school day. Information about Move Well Eat Well will be shared in the online newsletter.

Physical Education:

All children have PE once a week with a physical education specialist teacher. Classes also participate in a Daily Fitness program.

STEAM: (Science, Technology Engineering Art and Mathematics)

Our well-equipped STEAM room provides students and teachers with a range of digital technologies to support inquiry learning. These include drones, bee bots, 3D printer, Laser printer etc.

Lunchtime and after school STEAM activities are run periodically throughout the year. You will be contacted if your child is involved.

Visual Arts:

Visual Arts is an integral part of our children’s education. The Visual Arts Centre provides a designated space for visual art experiences. Children in all grades participate in a range of visual art techniques including: printing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, textiles and drawing. Our school Art Gallery and Art Trail proudly exhibit examples of this work.