Curriculum
Teaching & Learning
At Bridgewood, instruction takes place in flexible groupings capitalising on the modifiable working spaces that are available. The instructional model (the way teachers teach) enables the development of the whole child and encourages students to discover and nurture their strengths and passions.
Our program fosters academic success alongside essential skills like collaboration, creativity, and resilience, preparing students to thrive in an evolving world. Technology is woven into learning, ensuring students are prepared as both users and designers. We value a strong partnership with families to support each child’s learning journey.
Literacy
At Bridgewood, our literacy program is designed to foster independent, engaged readers, writers, and learners across all year levels.
For Foundation to year Two, we use the Systematic Synthetic Phonics program, Little Learners Love Literacy, which emphasises phonemic awareness, phonics, handwriting, reading fluency, and vocabulary through a multi-sensory approach. This program builds a strong foundation in reading, writing, and spelling.
For years Three to Six, we use the CAFE system (Comprehension, Accuracy, Fluency, Expand Vocabulary). Reading sessions include whole-class mini-lessons, focus groups, and individual conferences, supporting personalised learning and goal-setting.
Our explicit writing sessions follow the Gradual Release of Responsibility model, enabling students to explore various genres and build both technical and creative writing skills.
In writing, we adopt the Gradual Release of Responsibility model, encouraging students to explore various genres. Each term features Author Study and Literature Appreciation lessons, alongside a focus on concepts about print in the early years which nurtures both the technical and creative aspects of writing.
Our teachers use tailored interventions to enhance reading skills, employing leveled literacy support that allows students to engage with texts suited to their individual reading levels. This approach builds both confidence and competence, while comprehension strategies promote critical thinking and effective reading practices.
Additionally, our program emphasises speaking and listening skills in alignment with the Victorian Curriculum. Through structured activities and collaborative learning experiences, students enhance their ability to communicate effectively, engage in meaningful discussions, and critically listen to others. By developing these essential skills, we prepare our students for successful interactions in both their academic journeys and future endeavors.
Mathematics
At Bridgewood, we are dedicated to enhancing our students’ learning experiences in mathematics through a variety of engaging programs. We incorporate the Gradual Release of Responsibility model into our teaching practices, which ensures that specific mathematics skills are explicitly taught before students progress to collaborative and independent practice. This structured approach not only supports mastery of essential skills outlined in our Number and Algebra Continuum but also fosters an environment where students can develop confidence and see themselves as mathematicians.
Following this initial instruction, Maths Buddies provides students with the opportunity to apply their mathematical knowledge by working in pairs on challenging problems. This collaborative approach encourages them to develop critical thinking and reasoning skills while creating a supportive atmosphere where they share strategies, build on each other’s ideas, and identify areas for improvement. At the end of each lesson, selected students share their solutions, offering an opportunity for discussion about effective problem-solving methods.
Visual models also play a crucial role in our approach to problem-solving, allowing students to represent numerical challenges effectively. By using bars and other visual aids, students gain a clearer understanding of complex concepts, making problem-solving more accessible and enhancing their overall comprehension.
In addition to our programs, we proudly host the Bridgewood Annual Mathematics Meet (BAMM) for our senior students. BAMM is an exciting competition that encourages students to showcase their skills and passion for maths. This event fosters a sense of community and friendly competition, allowing students to engage with their peers and demonstrate their mathematical abilities in a fun and supportive environment.
Through these diverse programs, Bridgewood is committed to building strong mathematical foundations while nurturing a love for learning, ensuring that all students enjoy mathematics and feel empowered in their journey as mathematicians.
Leader in Me
Bridgewood is proud to be a Leader in Me school, a whole-school improvement process rooted in the belief that every student has the potential to be a leader. This evidence-based approach equips students with essential leadership and life skills, empowering them to thrive in today’s world.
Through the Leader in Me program, we are committed to developing the whole child by:
- Teaching leadership to every student,
- Fostering a culture of student empowerment,
- And aligning systems to enhance academic outcomes.
Leader in Me is integrated with the Victorian Curriculum, focusing on skills crucial for academic success, including critical thinking, goal setting, effective communication, self-directed learning, presentation-making, and teamwork. The 8 Habits are embedded in all subject areas, activities, and events, creating a cohesive learning experience for our students
Specialist Programs
Physical Education
At Bridgewood, all students enjoy a weekly Physical Education lesson, designed to build skills, fitness, and confidence.
In Foundation to year Two, students focus on Fundamental Motor Skills (FMS) through engaging games that include running, jumping, hopping, skipping, leaping, and one- and two-handed strikes. Years Three to Six students advance to Sport-Specific Skills, including tactics, umpiring, and rules in sports such as basketball, netball, AFL, soccer, volleyball, tee ball, and tennis.
Additionally, all students participate in a gymnastics program that develops skills in forward rolls, jumping and landing, single-bar activities, and balancing. Students in Foundation and year One also engage in a Perceptual Motor Program (P.M.P) led by our student leaders and learning mentors, focusing on activities that complement and enhance their Physical Education learning
Sport
At Bridgewood Primary School, our years Three to Six students enjoy a dynamic sports program, providing numerous opportunities to engage in competitive and team sports. Students participate in Cross Country, Athletics Day, and Hooptime Basketball, representing the school in the Pakenham District with the potential to advance through Division, Regional, and State levels.
Students in year Four have a weekly sport session where they are introduced to sports like cricket, basketball, tee-ball, and AFL, preparing them for the options available in the Years Five and Six sports program.
Every Friday in Terms One and Two, all years Five and Six students compete in Pakenham District Interschool Sports (Summer and Winter competitions), culminating in the Lightning Premiership—a round-robin event where winning teams advance to the Division level. Available sports include:Summer Sports:
- Cricket, Basketball, Softball, and Volleyball
- Winter Sports: Netball, AFL, Soccer, Tee-Ball, and Hotshots Tennis
In Term Four, students participate in the Sport Education for Physical Education Program (SEPEP), a student-led sports competition. Each student takes on a role, such as umpire, coach, or equipment manager to help foster leadership, teamwork, and responsibility. The program spans eight weeks of competition and concludes with a two-week finals series.
Our sports program is designed to build skills, teamwork, and school spirit, while providing pathways for students to excel in sports at district and beyond.
STEM
STEM education at Bridgewood Primary School nurtures students’ natural curiosity and integrates key areas of the Victorian Curriculum in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Using an integrated learning approach, teachers ensure students gain a cohesive understanding of STEM concepts, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Students engage in hands-on projects and collaborative learning, using resources like robots, a 3D printer, and various digital tools. Activities encourage students to think like scientists and engineers—asking questions, testing hypotheses, observing results, and recording their findings. From digital coding projects to engineering challenges and prototype building, these experiences enhance essential skills such as curiosity, critical thinking, perseverance, and reflection.
Art
Bridgewood’s Visual Arts program is designed to nurture creativity and build students’ skills across a variety of art forms, including painting, drawing, collage, printing, sculpture, clay work, construction, and textiles. We believe that ‘everyone is an artist,’ and our program gives all students the chance to develop their artistic abilities through a structured, developmental curriculum that progresses throughout their seven years of primary school.
Our school features a large kiln, allowing students to participate in a full ceramics program. Each year, they experience hand-building techniques and learn how to use glazes to create fired pieces of artwork.
To celebrate student creativity, we hold an annual whole-school art show, where students have the opportunity to showcase their favourite pieces from the year.
Music
At Bridgewood Primary School, our Music and Performing Arts program is designed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and encourage collaboration. Through engaging lessons, students explore the elements of music, drama, dance, and media arts, developing their skills and discovering new ways to express themselves.
From hands-on instrumental learning to vocal training, acting workshops, and dynamic performances, our program offers a wide range of opportunities for all year levels. Students learn to read and notate music for instruments such as guitar, keyboard, drums, bass guitar, ukulele, and glockenspiel. For those wanting to further their musicianship, private lessons are also available.
Throughout the year, students can showcase their talents and hard work in a variety of events, including band concerts, musicals, Christmas concerts, and classroom performances, allowing them to celebrate their creativity and achievements.
Chinese
At Bridgewood Primary School, students from Years two to six participate in our Chinese Program, designed to inspire a lifelong interest in Chinese language and culture. Through engaging activities like singing, role-playing, storytelling, calligraphy, and interactive games, students develop language skills in a fun and dynamic environment. Our program nurtures both language proficiency and cultural understanding, sparking curiosity and appreciation for Chinese traditions and customs.
In addition to language learning, the program introduces students to the rich and diverse Chinese culture. They explore Chinese festivals, art, food, sports, music, and games, gaining a deeper appreciation of this ancient and vibrant culture.
A unique feature of our program is the opportunity for students to connect with peers from our sister school in China. Through face-to-face and online exchanges, students share cultural insights and experiences, fostering global friendships and expanding their cultural horizons. This exchange encourages curiosity, respect, and a deeper understanding of the world, supporting the development of well-rounded, culturally aware global citizens.
Camps & Excursions
At Bridgewood, we believe that hands-on experiences are essential for enriching our students’ education, which is why we organise a variety of camps and excursions throughout the school year. All year levels participate in excursions that complement their learning, allowing students to explore new environments and deepen their understanding of classroom concepts. These outings are designed to create memorable experiences that spark curiosity and foster a love for learning.
For students in years Four to Six, we offer exciting camp opportunities that encourage personal growth, teamwork, and outdoor exploration. These camps provide a unique setting for students to develop resilience, confidence, and leadership skills while participating in various activities that challenge them physically and mentally. From team-building exercises to nature-based adventures, our camps aim to create lasting memories and friendships.
Additionally, our swimming program plays a crucial role in promoting physical fitness and water safety among our students. With lessons tailored to different skill levels, students not only improve their swimming abilities but also learn important life skills that contribute to their overall well-being. The swimming program fosters a love for physical activity while ensuring that all students feel confident and safe in the water.
Through our camps, excursions, and swimming program, Bridgewood is committed to providing diverse and enriching experiences that support the holistic development of our students. We strive to create opportunities for exploration, learning, and personal growth, ensuring that each student enjoys their educational journey while building essential skills for the future.
Global Education
Bridgewood Primary School offers senior students a unique opportunity to participate in an enriching educational trip to our sister school in Jiangsu, China. This cultural exchange program is part of our commitment to fostering global awareness and mutual understanding, supported by the Victorian Department of Education’s Sister School Program.
During the trip, students will engage in a variety of immersive activities, including language practice, classroom experiences, and joint projects with Jiangsu students, all designed to deepen their understanding of Chinese culture, history, and daily life. Students will also visit significant cultural landmarks and participate in traditional celebrations, gaining firsthand experience of a culture different from their own.
This trip is not only a valuable cultural experience but also builds essential skills such as resilience, adaptability, and open-mindedness, qualities that help develop well-rounded, globally aware young citizens. Bridgewood’s partnership with the Jiangsu school fosters long-term friendships, respect for cultural diversity, and a stronger connection between our communities.
For further details about the Jiangsu Sister School trip, including eligibility and itinerary, please contact Bridgewood Primary School reception or visit the Victorian Department of Education’s website.