Learning in the classroom is supported by our Specialist Programs which focus on – Physical Education, Visual & Media Arts, Performing Arts, Science & Technology and Italian.
Physical Education
The Physical Education program at our school aims to develop both gross and fine motor skills, sportsmanship, teamwork, fitness and athletic skill base of all students. In addition to weekly P.E lessons, we offer swimming lessons to students in Prep – Year 2, water safety lessons to Year 3 – Year 6 students, and the Perceptual Motor Program (PMP) in Prep.
Students at various levels also have the opportunity to participate in a range of events such as the Hooptime Basketball Competition (Years 3 – 4 & 5 – 6), Interschool and Intraschool Sport (Years 5 & 6), and clinics in particular sports such as soccer, tennis and rugby.
We also participate in the BDSSA and attend annual carnivals for swimming, cross country and athletics. These events provide opportunities for students to qualify for a position to represent our school in further stages of the competition, including Division, Regional and State Championships.
Italian
The Italian program at Mill Park Primary School is designed to provide students with a comprehensive language learning experience that aims to develop their knowledge, understanding, and skills in the Italian language. The program aims to equip students with the necessary language skills to communicate effectively in Italian, as well as to provide them with an understanding of the relationship between language, culture, and learning.
In addition to language proficiency, the program also seeks to develop students’ intercultural capabilities. Through learning about the Italian culture and customs, students can gain a deeper appreciation of different ways of life and develop empathy and respect for cultural diversity. This understanding of different cultures and traditions helps students develop the ability to connect with people from different backgrounds and communicate across linguistic and cultural barriers.
The Italian program also encourages students to develop a sense of self-awareness and identity as communicators. Through the program, students can improve their communication skills, such as speaking, listening, reading and writing in Italian, and learn how to express their ideas and feelings more effectively. This helps them to build their confidence and develop a sense of pride in their ability to communicate in another language. Overall, the Italian program at Mill Park Primary School is designed to provide students with a well-rounded learning experience that will help them to communicate effectively and appreciate different cultures.
Visual & Media Arts
In Visual Arts, students are encouraged to develop their creativity and imagination while exploring a range of artist skills, materials, and techniques. The program aims to inspire and challenge students to think beyond the obvious and experiment with new forms of artistic expression. The Visual Arts program covers a range of media, including painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, and digital media. Students are provided with the opportunity to work with various tools and materials, such as chalk, pencils, pens, textas, brushes, scissors, and more. This enables them to develop their skills and techniques, while also exploring their own individual artistic style and expression. In addition to Visual Arts, the school also offers Media Arts, which allows students to explore the use of digital media and technology in creative expression. Through Media Arts, students develop their skills in video production, animation, graphic design, and sound production. They learn to use various software programs and tools to produce and edit their own digital media projects. Student artwork from the Art Studio is displayed throughout the school, providing students with the opportunity to showcase their creations to their peers and teachers. The Bi-annual Arts Fest held in October of each even year is a highly anticipated event, where students across the school display their artwork in a collaborative exhibition. This event is a wonderful celebration of the creativity and artistic talents of students at Mill Park Primary School.
Performing Arts
In Performing Arts, students at Mill Park Primary School have the opportunity to explore and develop their skills in Dance, Drama, and Music. Each week, students are encouraged to build their love for the arts by exploring a range of musical instruments, including guitar, keyboard, and percussion, as well as digital technologies. The school offers a range of extracurricular activities for students with a passion for music and performing, such as the School Rock Band for Years 5-6 students, which provides a platform for students to learn and perform contemporary music. The Mill Park Singers, available for students in Years 4-6, is another program that encourages students to showcase their singing and performing abilities. Assemblies, Arts Fest (held every even year), Big Night Out at Lalor North College, and the Annual MPPS Christmas Concert are all events where students have the opportunity to showcase their musical and performing abilities. These events are an opportunity for students to work collaboratively and showcase their talents to their peers, parents, and the wider community. By participating in Performing Arts at Mill Park Primary School, students not only gain new skills and develop their artistic abilities, but they also learn valuable lessons in teamwork, collaboration, and self-expression. The program encourages creativity and allows students to develop their confidence and self-esteem, preparing them for future success in a variety of areas.
Science
At Mill Park Primary School, we are excited to introduce a new Science and Technology program in 2023, which covers the Victorian Curriculum content for both science and technology. This program is designed to provide our students with a hands-on, engaging learning experience that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Our Science and Technology program is designed to give our students a strong foundation in scientific and technological concepts and practices, as well as to promote inquiry-based learning and the development of scientific thinking skills. Students will have the opportunity to engage in experiments, investigations, and projects that will help them develop their understanding of scientific concepts and phenomena.
In addition to science, our program also covers technology, including topics such as coding, robotics, and digital media. Students will have the opportunity to develop their skills in these areas through a range of activities and projects, including coding challenges, robotics competitions, and media production.
Overall, our Science and Technology program is an exciting addition to our curriculum, and we are confident that it will provide our students with the knowledge, skills, and curiosity to thrive in the rapidly changing world of science and technology.
Language Support Centre
The Language Support Centre (LSC) at our school is a valuable resource that is located within the Early Years section. It is specifically designed to enhance the oral language skills of our Prep to Year 2 students. The centre offers a variety of hands-on activities, creative play, and exploratory stations that provide an engaging and interactive learning experience for our students.
At the LSC, students have access to various resources that are designed to help them practice their oral language skills. There are areas for group discussion and role-playing, which encourage students to express their thoughts and ideas in a safe and supportive environment. The LSC also features stations for reading and writing activities, which help students to develop their literacy skills.
To keep the students engaged, the LSC focuses on a particular theme each term. This approach helps to capture the interest and imaginations of our students while aligning with the spelling and listening curriculum. For instance, during the term, the LSC might explore themes such as animals, plants, or community helpers. The use of these themes makes the learning experience more enjoyable and meaningful for our students.
The LSC also has areas that are specifically designed to help students practice social skills. These areas provide students with the opportunity to interact with each other, share their experiences, and learn about different cultures. As a result, students develop a sense of empathy and respect for one another, which is essential for creating a positive and inclusive learning environment.
Overall, the Language Support Centre is an important part of our school’s early years program. It provides a supportive and engaging learning environment that helps our students to develop their oral language, literacy, and social skills.
