Teaching & Learning

Reading and Phonics- information for parents & carers

Throughout the year, via the newsletter, we share information and resources for parents and carers regarding current approaches to teaching and learning.  Below you will find information relating to reading and phonics at Buninyong Primary School.

Strong literacy skills are essential for learning across all subjects. At Buninyong Primary School the  teaching of  early reading occurs using a systematic synthetic phonics approach in Prep to Year 2. We use an approach called, ‘Sounds-Write’ which all of our teachers in Prep-2 receive professional learning in.

Students receive at least 25 minutes of daily phonics instruction. Systematic phonics helps students learn how sounds link to letters so they can read words accurately. Our approach of  a structured literacy program is aligned with Victoria's approach to teaching reading F–2. 

Effective reading programs also include explicit teaching of:

• oral language
• vocabulary
• reading fluency

• comprehension.

   

Resources for parents and carers include:

• How to build your child's literacy skills from birth to Grade 2

• Phonics: a guide for parents and carers

   

You may also wish to explore the resources available for parents and carers on the Sounds-Write website, found here:

 https://sounds-write.co.uk/support-for-parents-and-carers

We encourage parents and carers to contact their child’s classroom teacher for further information about how you can support your child’s reading at home, or for more ideas regarding useful resources,

Book Week Reminder

Book Week is just around the corner and will be celebrated in Week 5 (22–28 August). While our school concert means we won't be holding a dress-up day this year, students can still look forward to a range of engaging Book Week activities in their classrooms and during break times. 

This year's theme, 'Symphony of Stories', celebrates the joy and power of books. Keep an eye on Compass and upcoming newsletters for further details.

Swimming Program Reminder

Our 2026 Swimming and Water Safety Program is fast approaching. Parent/carer consent and payment are now available in Compass.

Key information:

• Cost: $66 per student
• Venue: Federation University Pool
• Program: Five consecutive 45-minute lessons delivered by qualified instructors
• Dates: Please refer to the schedule below for your child's year level.

Thank you for completing your child's consent and payment before their program begins.