English
At Sandringham East Primary School, we believe in teaching English through evidence-based practices such as Explicit Direct Instruction and a Multisensory Approach. Every day, students participate in a two-hour literacy block, where they are explicitly taught skills and concepts in phonics, spelling, grammar, reading, and writing.
Our literacy program is built around the six key components of literacy: oral language, vocabulary, phonics, phonological awareness, fluency, and comprehension. We understand the importance of fluency, accuracy, and comprehension in developing confident readers and implement strategies to support these skills across the whole school. Students engage with mentor texts and analyse how published authors develop their ideas, structure their sentences, and use language purposefully to convey meaning.
Structured synthetic phonics underpins our literacy instruction from Foundation to Year 2, building a strong foundation in reading and writing from the outset. Targeted explicit instruction and a multisensory approach are used to teach a carefully sequenced set of phonemes and phonological skills, enabling students to decode words accurately and independently. Decodable texts support beginning readers as they develop their blending and segmenting skills, providing them with opportunities to practice what has been taught in class.
Students needing 1-1 instruction receive support through an MSL approach. We have staff trained in the Orton-Gillingham (O-G) approach, providing effective reading instruction for all students, including those with dyslexia.
Mathematics
The Victorian Curriculum 2.0 in Mathematics is broken up into 6 strands:
- Number
- Algebra
- Measurement
- Space
- Statistics (commencing at Foundation Level C)
- Probability (commencing at Level 3).
At Sandringham East Primary we believe in teaching Mathematics using evidence-based practices, including Explicit Instruction and the Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) approach. Our Instructional Model provides a structured framework for planning and delivering lessons, ensuring a consistent and effective learning experience for all students.
Mathematical concepts are taught in a sequenced and systematic way, following Di Siemon’s Big Ideas in Number. This approach helps students develop a deep understanding of both mathematical concepts and processes, making learning meaningful and connected. Our goal is to create rich, dynamic classrooms where young mathematicians are engaged, challenged, and empowered.
We recognise the importance of positive self-perception in mathematics. Our staff foster an environment where students feel confident to take risks, embrace challenges, and understand that learning involves productive struggle—where making mistakes is a valuable part of the learning journey.
How We Teach Mathematics
Our approach includes:
✔ A developmental teaching model that blends explicit instruction with problem-solving and inquiry, allowing students to apply concepts to real-world situations.
✔ The CRA approach (Concrete, Representational, Abstract) to introduce and model new mathematical ideas effectively.
✔ Strong visual learning strategies to help students build deep conceptual understanding.
✔ Hands-on experiences that make abstract mathematical ideas more tangible and accessible.
✔ Consistent and developmentally appropriate mathematical language to ensure clarity and understanding.
✔ Flexible number sense, helping students manipulate numbers and develop efficient problem-solving strategies.
✔ Multiple exposures to key concepts to reinforce learning and embed knowledge deeply.
✔ Differentiated instruction, tailored to support the needs of individual learners.
✔ Engaging games and activities that enhance mathematical thinking and enjoyment.
✔ Integration of ICT, using technology to deepen understanding and engagement.
✔ Formative assessment strategies to check for understanding, address misconceptions, and provide targeted support at each student’s point of need.
By embracing this approach, we empower our students to become confident, capable, and curious mathematicians who see the beauty and relevance of mathematics in their everyday lives.
Inquiry
Our Inquiry Teaching and Learning framework integrates research-based practices and is designed to foster deep learning through engagement and personalised instruction.
Teachers guide students through various areas of the curriculum, gradually shifting the responsibility for learning as the unit progresses. Within the framework of the Victorian Curriculum, students are encouraged to take charge of their learning in specific subjects (Student Agency).
Students delve into STEM topics, utilising technology to create innovative solutions. They also engage with Civics and Citizenship, History, and Geography through an inquiry-based approach. These subjects are further connected and reinforced through interdisciplinary links with core areas such as Reading, Writing, and Mathematics.
We explicitly teach the elements of student agency, empowering students to make choices about their educational experiences so they are not passive recipients of knowledge; they are active participants in their own learning process.
Start Your Journey With Us
At Sandringham East Primary School, every child is nurtured to thrive, explore, and grow in a vibrant learning community.
Whether you’re a new family or considering a move, we’d love to welcome you and share what makes our school special.