Teaching & Learning
core & specialist subjects
We build strong foundations in the core areas in the core subjects — English, Mathematics, Science and Humanities — using proven, research-based methods. Alongside this, students enjoy a rich specialist program including Art, Music, Physical Education, Languages and Digital Technologies, giving them the chance to explore their interests and develop new skills.
Literacy
English is taught in a knowledge-, language- and text-rich environment. Our program emphasises the development of speaking, listening, reading, writing and thinking skills, laying the foundation for all other areas of learning.
- Core Literacy Skills: We prioritise the "Big 6" of literacy: oral language, phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension. Early years teaching focuses on explicit, systematic instruction in synthetic phonics, a research-backed approach that builds essential word-reading and spelling skills.
- Building Advanced Literacy: As students progress, they engage in novel studies to deepen their comprehension and critical thinking while exploring diverse and rich literature.
Our commitment to robust literacy ensures students become confident, capable readers and writers who are prepared for future learning
Numeracy
Our Mathematics program helps students achieve a high standard of proficiency by blending modern research with practical teaching methods.
- Curriculum Structure: Our Maths program covers six main areas: Number, Algebra, Measurement, Space, Statistics and Probability.
- Teaching Approach: Focuses on building deep understanding through a Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) framework. This means students begin with hands-on activities (using objects), move to pictures, and finally transition to abstract symbols and equations. Our emphasis lies in fostering automaticity in fundamental mathematical skills, enabling students to navigate through more intricate concepts and problems as they progress.
- Explicit Instruction: Each lesson is carefully planned using an approach called Explicit Instruction. This means teachers clearly explain and demonstrate new ideas step-by-step, then guide students as they practise these skills together, before practising independently.
Humanities
Our curriculum integrates key subjects like History, Science, Geography and Civics and Citizenship with real-world issues to build knowledge and inspire curiosity and understanding.
- Core Knowledge: Students develop a strong knowledge base in the Humanities while exploring topics like Sustainability, Government and Cultures around the world.
We aim to nurture informed, thoughtful and active members of the community.
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics)
Our dedicated STEAM program develops students’ problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity through practical learning and real-world connections.
- Specialist-Led Lessons: Students attend weekly STEAM sessions in one of our two well-equipped STEAM labs and use our garden space for practical projects.
- Projects: From coding and robotics to environmental science, students explore engaging topics that link science and technology to everyday life.
- Example: In one project, students designed an irrigation system for our school garden, combining engineering, science and sustainability.
Performing Arts
Our Performing Arts program offers opportunities for students to express themselves, explore creativity and build confidence through music, drama and dance.
- Creative Learning: Students learn about rhythm, movement, storytelling and performance, while also exploring different cultures and traditions.
- Performance Opportunities: Regular concerts, assemblies and events give students the chance to perform and celebrate their progress with peers and families.
Through the arts, students gain experiences that foster both academic and personal growth.
Physical Education
Physical Education promotes teamwork and healthy habits in a fun, supportive and inclusive environment. Our program encourages all students to enjoy being active, challenge themselves and learn new skills that support their physical and social development.
- Weekly PE Lessons: All students participate in structured PE sessions that build coordination, strength, balance and sportsmanship. Lessons are designed to suit different ability levels.
- Sport and Movement: Students take part in a variety of activities including ball skills, games, athletics and fundamental movement skills. As they progress through the year levels, they learn how to play fairly, work in teams and set personal goals.
- Whole School Events: Students are encouraged to participate in events such as our school cross country, athletics carnival and swimming program, which help build endurance and confidence.
- Interschool Sport: For older students, there are opportunities to represent Southmoor in local interschool competitions.
Korean
Our Korean program provides students with the opportunity to learn a new language while developing cultural awareness.
- Cultural Immersion: Weekly lessons explore Korean traditions, history and customs, helping students build global awareness.
Learning a second language broadens students’ perspectives and develops their communication skills.
Library
Each week, students visit the library to:
- Discover books they love: Our goal is to help every child become a confident, curious reader.
- Build research and thinking skills: Children learn how to find information, ask questions and think critically.
- Connect reading with classroom learning: Library supports what children are learning in subjects like Literacy, Science and more.