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Victorian Essential Learning Standards

 (VELS)

Donvale Primary School is implementing the Victorian Essential Learning Standards. These standards provide a new approach to curriculum from Prep to Year 10 for all Victorian schools. The Standards outline what is important for students to learn and develop during their time at school. They are designed to encourage a deep understanding of essential knowledge, skills and behaviours. The Standards will also be used to plan student learning, assess student progress and report to parents.

The Victorian Essential Learning Standards are set in three main strands or areas. They are:

       physical, personal and social skills such as being active and healthy, developing self confidence, managing personal learning and working with others

       knowledge and understanding from the key subjects of English, Science, Mathematics, The Humanities, Languages and The Arts

       other essential skills that apply across curriculum areas such as thinking, design, problem solving, communicating and using information and communications technology.

These areas are all important to the development of a well-rounded and confident young person. They have often been part of the school experience of young people, but they have not always been linked closely with traditional subject areas. Bringing them together emphasises their value and relevance in student learning

English
The teaching of literacy is a high priority at Donvale Primary School. The school has fully implemented the Victorian Early Years Literacy Program Prep - four (VELS levels 1-3)and ensures that all students have their literacy needs met through the provision of small group instruction, programs tailored to meet individual needs and regular assessment. In early years, student skills and knowledge are closely monitored and learning needs are addressed in small group learning programs. This continues as students work in level 4 (grades 5 and 6) and as they progress towards secondary education.

We believe that given sufficient time and support, all children can succeed. We develop a caring and dynamic educational environment where all children are encouraged to work to their full potentiial in a structured and supported  school environment.

Mathematics
The teaching of numeracy is a high priority and occurs on a daily basis. The school is implementing the Early Numeracy Program through the daily numeracy block. Through learning maths, students work towards acquiring mathematical skills and knowledge to enable them to confidently and competently deal with maths in daily life at home, in the community and at school. We focus on problem solving, getting children to think for themselves and enjoying mathematics.

Integrated Curriculum
We use an integrated curriculum to enhance student learning by making logical links between areas of the curriculum. We integrate the content areas of the curriculum including humanities, science, technology and health. We use the 'process' areas of the curriculum - speaking, listening, reading viewing, writing, mathematics, drama, art/craft and music to allow children to express their understanding of the curriculum content.

Preps (Level 1)
The Preps get a great start in their first year at Donvale Primary School and they gain a good understanding of school procedures and expectations. We have a wonderful transition program in Term 4 with the new Preps attending 4 classroom sessions.in these sessions the children familiarise themselves with the shcool and classroom environment. A highlight of the transition  program is when  the children meet and work with their grade 6 buddy.

Literacy Support
The school has a fully trained Reading Recovery teacher on staff who gives support to needy students in their second year of school. In addition, children in levels 3 and 4 receive additional support as required to improve their skills.

Gifted Students
A challenging and varied classroom program caters for all learning styles and intelligences, with additional programssuch as "Wise Ones" available.  Opportunities for children to enter additonal competitions such as those organizied by the University of NSW are provided.

Student Welfare
The school places a great emphasis on Student Welfare. We use the ‘Healthy Relationships’ program to develop social skills and values throughout the school. There is also an effective buddy program where Years Six students work with a specific Prep child throughout the year. The school has a strong anti bullying program and student self esteem is valued and developed. We have trained Senior students in Peer Mediation. This program  support students to solve problems in the playground.