Teaching & Learning 

Allowing students to participate in academic excellence initiatives is vital for nurturing their talents, extending their learning, and inspiring a lifelong passion for achievement. 

We currently have several initiatives underway at Whittlesea Primary School that are helping us to achieve this.

ICAS

ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments for Schools) is a prestigious academic competition that challenges students to apply their skills and knowledge across a range of subjects.  As part of our Student Excellence Program at Whittlesea Primary School, we are proud to share that a number of our Year 5 and Year 6 students were selected to participate. Students have already participated in the Digital Technologies competition, demonstrating their problem-solving and computational thinking abilities, as well as the English competition, where they showcased their comprehension, grammar, and creative language skills.  These opportunities not only extend learning beyond the classroom but also help to foster confidence, encourage a love of learning, and celebrate academic excellence.  We are now looking forward to Week 6, when several students will take part in the Mathematics competition, applying their reasoning, fluency, and problem-solving skills in new and challenging ways.

VHAP

As part of the Student Excellence Program at Whittlesea Primary School, we currently have five Year 5 and Year 6 students participating in the Victorian High Ability Program (VHAP).  This is an initiative designed to extend and challenge high-achieving students in their areas of strength.  Through this program, students engage in interactive online lessons with specialist teachers and peers from other schools, exploring advanced concepts in Mathematics and English beyond the standard curriculum.  VHAP encourages critical and creative thinking, fosters collaboration, and provides opportunities for students to deepen their understanding while developing valuable skills for future learning.  We are proud of their commitment and enthusiasm as they embrace these exciting learning experiences.

Year 1 Phonics Check

Our Year 1 students at Whittlesea Primary School are currently participating in the Year 1 Phonics Check.  This assessment is being completed across all Victorian schools as part of a statewide initiative to support the development of early reading skills.  This short, 1:1 assessment helps teachers identify how well students can recognise the sounds that letters and letter combinations make, and how they blend these sounds to read words. The check provides valuable insights for teachers into each student’s progress in phonics, enabling teachers to tailor instruction and provide targeted support where needed.  By strengthening these foundational skills, the Phonics Check plays an essential role in helping students become confident and successful readers.