Myrtleford Primary School - "Learning Life Skills Together"

Myrtleford Primary School has a student population which varies between 210 and 220 pupils. Depending on enrolments we conduct eight or nine grade groupings. The school is situated in the picturesque Ovens Valley with vistas of the surrounding mountains in every direction. The school and town are surrounded by established recreation and garden areas located at the "Gateway to the Alps". Myrtleford Primary School services a diverse urban and rural community with children travelling up to 40km by school bus daily.

Our school's philosophy is firmly based on the belief that every student has the ability to learn and that this best occurs in a flexible, happy and positive environment. We have a committed staff who achieve this by:

This school emphasizes the optimal development of each student in the eight key learning areas of English, Mathematics, Science, Technology, Languages other than English, Studies of Society and Environment, Health and Physical Education, and the Arts. We value and encourage the use of flexible groupings, co-operative learning, problem solving strategies, integrated curriculum, equal opportunity practices, team planning and inquiry learning. Specialist programs are currently offered in Library and LOTE (Italian). Involvement in the Middle Years Research and Development project in the senior school will complement strategies that have been implemented as part of the Early Years Project in the junior and middle school units.

The physical environment of the school is well developed and attractive, with both passive and active areas for student use. The School Council, with the assistance of the school community, is continually working towards upgrading the school's buildings and grounds. Stimulating and vibrant classrooms reflect an environment that supports and encourages learning. Facilities include a modern Library, an Art/Craft Room and a large Multi Purpose Room. An extensive computer network links all classrooms with each classroom having a big screen television for teaching and recreational purposes. Computer use across the curriculum is an integral feature of the everyday classroom.

Students have opportunity to participate in the Junior School Council whilst parents and teachers are represented on school bodies that include School Council, Parents Club and a number of School Council sub-committees. After School Childcare operates on a daily basis.

The school environment has been designed to be safe and stimulating for all students with appropriate provision for those with special needs. Appropriate support services are provided for those children with special needs.

Myrtleford Primary participates in a range of extra curricular activities including camps and excursions, Traffic Education, intensive swimming program, visiting artists and speakers, whole school sports and activity days, skiing and a host of curriculum related activities. A student social skills program (prep-6) will continue to be implemented during this Charter.

Charter priorities for the period 2001-2003 are Mathematics (Prep-Six) and Student & Staff Welfare. Early Years Numeracy strategies introduced in all classrooms combined with Middle Years strategies in the senior school is a key element in developing improved achievement in Mathematics. These strategies follow the Early Years Literacy program that has been introduced with much success during the last Charter period.

We value a school culture that recognises and acknowledges individual and group achievement in not just the academic arena, but also in the social, emotional and physical worlds as well. "Program Achieve-You Can Do It" has been introduced throughout 2002. This program considers academic achievement and social, emotional and behavioural well-being.

Based on the four foundations of Getting Along, Organisation, Persistence and Confidence, we aim to develop children who have a positive mindset that reflects the "Eleven habits of the mind":

Staff and parents reinforce positive student behaviour by providing behaviour specific feedback. We identify and acknowledge the particular skills children are exhibiting, acknowledging their effort and achievement on a regular basis.

Much support is provided throughout the program to parents and families. Information session keep our families updated and supportive of the ethos that underlies the culture of the school.

After School Care

After School Care is conducted from 3:30pm through till 6:00pm. This service is utilised by families from both Myrtleford Primary School and the nearby St. Mary's Primary School. A range of activities are planned to engage children as well as allowing time for rest if the children so wish. A nutritious light snack prepared by the coordinator is enjoyed by participants each night.
Booking may be made on 5752 1174. Rates are available upon application.