At Donvale Primary School, we believe that Humanities learning helps students understand the world they live in, the people who shape it, and their place within it. Through rich and engaging units, students develop curiosity, empathy and a growing understanding of history, geography, civics and society.
Humanities learning is carefully planned and taught by classroom teachers, ensuring strong connections to literacy learning and opportunities for discussion, reflection and deep thinking.
Humanities learning at Donvale Primary School aligns with the Victorian Curriculum 2.0 and is designed to build strong background knowledge and understanding of the world.
All students from Prep to Year 6 study History and Geography, developing an understanding of:
past societies and significant events
places, environments and landscapes
how people live, move and interact across the world
how environments influence communities and cultures
Students are supported to think critically, ask questions and make connections between the past, the present and the world around them.
Students in Years 3–6 learn about Civics and Citizenship, developing an understanding of:
how communities and governments function
the rights and responsibilities of citizens
democratic values and decision-making
Learning is practical and relevant, helping students understand how they can contribute positively to their school and wider community.
In Years 5 and 6, students also explore Economics and Business, learning about:
how decisions are made about resources
the role of consumers, producers and governments
financial decision-making and responsibility
This learning supports students to develop informed thinking about money, work and economic choices.
Civics learning at Donvale Primary School is brought to life through Donvale Democracy, our updated Junior School Council model.
Through Donvale Democracy:
students from Prep to Year 6 participate in civic learning
Student Voice Leaders represent their peers
students raise ideas, share feedback and contribute to improving the school
This program empowers students to develop leadership skills, confidence and a sense of responsibility, while learning how democratic processes work in real and meaningful ways.
Humanities learning at Donvale Primary School includes opportunities for student choice, particularly through additional Humanities units taught across the week.
Students engage in three Humanities sessions each week, with units designed to:
ignite curiosity about the world
build rich background knowledge
deepen understanding of history, geography and cultures
Topics are carefully selected to be engaging and thought-provoking, and may include:
Ancient Egypt
Ancient China
World Rivers
The American Civil War
and other significant global events, places and civilisations
These units help students develop a broader understanding of the world and the diverse people and cultures who inhabit it.
Humanities learning encourages students to:
ask questions and explore different perspectives
discuss ideas respectfully
analyse sources and information
reflect on how history and geography shape our world today
Teachers explicitly guide students through inquiry and discussion, ensuring learning is well supported while encouraging thoughtful engagement and curiosity.
Through Humanities learning, students develop:
strong background knowledge
critical and creative thinking skills
empathy and understanding of others
confidence to share ideas and viewpoints
These skills support students not only in Humanities, but across all areas of learning and in their future lives as active and informed citizens.
Families are encouraged to speak with their child’s teacher if they have questions about Humanities learning or upcoming units. We value strong partnerships with families in supporting students’ curiosity, learning and understanding of the world.
