Curriculum Information

We are committed to providing a quality teaching and learning environment and continuous improvement culture with our programs and practices. We have high expectations for all our students at Hackham West School. The Australian National Curriculum forms the basis of our curriculum with a strong commitment to Literacy and Numeracy.

InitiaLit:

Whole-class initial instruction is an evidence-based whole-class literacy program providing all children with the essential core knowledge and strong foundations to become successful readers and writers. InitiaLit is a three-year program, covering the first three years of school.

Digital Tech:

Our three older classes take part in regular digital tech lessons where they learn safe, smart and creative ways to use devices. These skills build confidence, support problem‑solving, and help them work together on real‑world projects.

Special Education Support:

We have a dedicated Special Education Co-ordinator who works with teachers, parents and students to ensure students with disabilities are accessing all levels of support needed at school and home. This role also provides 1:1 and small group support during the day to ensure student learning is progressing.

ON-SITE Speech Pathologist:

We have a two day per week on-site Speech Pathologist to work with teachers and observe students to offer the best possible practice for learners with speech and language difficulties.

Wellbeing Lessons:

Supporting wellbeing not only helps children and young people to feel happier and less anxious, it will also help them to have positive interactions with their peers, families and to learn more effectively. Wellbeing has a significant impact on students’ academic outcomes, students with a greater level of wellbeing are more likely to experience improved academic outcomes, this is why our 3 younger classes have scheduled lessons each week for wellbeing education.

LOTE Studies:

At HWS, we integrate the Kaurna language into our daily routine as a school-wide strategy to enhance our understanding of the traditional language of Kaurna land.

P.E. Health / Science:

A specialist teacher runs health and Science five days per week. This involved a variety of games, skill development, social learning and healthy lifestyle components. This is also an opportunity to link students into after school sports and other sporting clubs. Science is a hands-on learning experience for all students R-6.

Explicit Direct Instruction – EDI:

Explicit direct instructions is an approach to learning based on the best research available, it helps teachers deliver effective lessons that can significantly improve achievement for all learners, including Aboriginal learners, children with trauma and students with special needs. This pedagogy is used in all classrooms.