The Dorset Difference
At Dorset Primary School, our students and staff aim to inspire, achieve and succeed. We teach students to be lifelong learners and responsible, resilient people. Each student is supported by a team of experienced and passionate educators.
We focus on building and maintaining strong relationships centered on trust and respect. Student voice is promoted through a range of leadership roles, a Junior School Council and lunchtime clubs. Clubs are tailored to student interests and include a choir and art club among many others. Our breakfast club also runs before school each day.
Staff are highly trained in Restorative Practices and we provide mental health support for students through a team of mentoring staff. Students also participate in social-emotional learning programs that target age-appropriate Our school facilities include a full-size oval, a tennis court, a basketball court and a high capacity indoor gymnasium hall. We also have purpose-built play areas such as Foundation playground, a Peace Garden and a Sanctuary.
From Year 3, students participate in the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden program and play an active part in growing, cultivating and maintaining our produce gardens.
Our specialist program includes:
· Health and Physical Education
· Performing Arts
· Italian
· Science
· Digital Technologies and Library
· Visual Arts
Years One & Two
In the primary years, we prioritize the acquisition of essential life skills at Dorset, ensuring that our students are equipped with the capabilities needed for lifelong learning. Our emphasis is on cultivating confidence, fostering independence, and encouraging a proactive approach to learning. Students develop the ability to ask questions, actively listen to others, and build confidence in their own abilities. The Junior School curriculum is designed to build robust skills in literacy and numeracy, complemented by a range of diverse specialist programs. These programs encompass Art, Science, Physical Education (P.E.), Perceptual Motor Program (PMP), Digital Technologies, and Italian, offering a well-rounded educational experience.
Years Five & Six
At Dorset, we hold our seniors to the highest standards as they serve as role models for the entire school community. Throughout their senior years, students are presented with numerous opportunities to explore and enhance their leadership skills through a diverse array of leadership roles. As part of our mentoring initiatives, Year 5/6 students are paired with Foundation students to serve as mentors in both the classroom and the playground. This fosters strong bonds between the students, emphasizing the importance of fun, friendships, and empathy within our Buddies Program.
Year 6 Transition
Students in Year 5 and 6 will engage in a range of transition activities throughout the academic year. This involves representatives from multiple schools visiting Dorset for informative sessions. Specifically, our Year 6 students participate in the 'High School Experience' program, exposing them to a diverse set of classes such as Geography, Humanities, Health, Sport, and English. Additionally, they receive a timetable mirroring that of high school students, providing a practical experience that fosters skills for a smoother transition into high school.