GATE Maths
Children are the heart of the school and at Oakwood we look for opportunities to extend those students who are capable and ready to push their learning further.
In GATE Maths students will work towards building up a repertoire of problem solving strategies and build in them the thinking to analyse, generalise and justify rules and patterns they identify in mathematics.
GATE Lessons are based around the Powerful Problem Solving structure developed by Scitech. Students use mobile whiteboards to solve problems in randomly assigned groups. The students work in their teams in presenting their ideas, questioning and defending ideas that are presented, and seeking to understand most efficient solutions. Teachers employ Talk Moves to engage all students in active thinking throughout the discussion. The students then need to present their strategies to the class they used for solving the mathematical problems.
Physical Education
At Oakwood Primary School we base our yearly plans around events in community sport and Interschool events. Students in junior primary transition through the stages of Fundamental Movement Skills and Object Control Skills to develop their skills as they move into middle school primary. In middle school primary students continue to develop their Fundamental Movement Skills and Object Control Skills and begin to apply these skills in modified games and activities. Finally, as students enter the final stages of their school in upper primary, students begin to focus more on applying their skills in organised games that will give them the opportunity to represent Oakwood at Interschool Events. Oakwood competes in the Coastal Sporting Schools Association for a Summer Carnival, Winter Carnival, Cross Country and Athletics Carnival.
Spanish (LOTE)
The Western Australian Curriculum: Languages is based upon the fundamental principle that for all students, learning to communicate in two or more languages is a rich, challenging experience of engaging with and participating in the linguistic and cultural diversity of our interconnected world. Learning a language strengthens the area of the brain which is responsible for memory, speech, and sensory perception, helps develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and nurtures curiosity and openness in our students.
At Oakwood, the Spanish curriculum has been carefully adapted to allow students from Year 2 to Year 6 the opportunity to learn the language through a blended pedagogy of explicit instruction and hands-on learning.
In the foundation years students become familiar with the sounds and systems of spoken Spanish, whilst learning how to spot similarities and differences in pronunciation. This is aided greatly by phonemic and phonological awareness accumulated during the early years of their schooling. Students learn simple greetings and basic conversational phrases to communicate with peers and teachers and start to build a repertoire of topic based vocabulary and everyday words, such as numbers and colours, the calendar, and classroom routines. In the middle primary years, we practise essential language acquisition skills such as listening, reading and speaking using engaging songs and media presentations, and consolidate concepts and topic vocabulary during small-group or whole-class activities. Weekly lessons include a review of prior learning and future topics are chosen with input from students. In upper primary, students are exposed to the warmth and vibrancy of Spanish & Latin-American culture, traditions, festivals and celebrations.
Oakwood recognises the diversity in our local community and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds. Our school values encourage inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone.? At last count our school community comprises families from more than 50 different countries and cultures, whilst many families speak a different language at home.
Performing Arts
At Oakwood we believe in fostering creativity and confidence through the Performing Arts.
In Music, students will learn theoretical and practical skills to enjoy, make and create music. They explore and experiment with the elements of music, standard notation, and develop their aural skills. Depending on their year level, students are taught how to play tonal percussion, boom whackers, keyboard, ukulele, and various other percussion instruments. We aim to cultivate young musicians through exposure to different styles of music and encourage students to develop an appreciation for diversity.
In Drama, students develop the skills to perform dramatic scenes both scripted and improvised. Through engaging activities, the Drama elements are built upon through the year levels and students develop their expressive skills, and teamwork. They explore the use of voice and movement skills in constructing characters and learn how to read and write scripts. We foster an inclusive environment where every child can shine, nurturing students’ self-confidence and communication skills.
Additionally, The Oakwood Harmony choir provides an exciting opportunity for students to harmonize and perform together, cultivating a deep appreciation for vocal music and musical collaboration. Each year we perform at various events in the community including the Western Australian Government School Music Society at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre.
Visual Arts
Visual Art at Oakwood Primary School: Where Creativity Comes to Life
At Oakwood Primary School, creativity isn’t just encouraged it’s celebrated! Our visual arts program inspires students to explore, imagine, and express themselves in exciting and meaningful ways. From the very first brushstroke to imaginative sculptures and colourful constructions, our students are given the freedom to bring their ideas to life.
Through hands-on experiences in drawing, painting, sculpting, and mixed media, children develop essential artistic skills while having fun. Visual art provides a powerful outlet for self-expression, helping students share their thoughts, feelings, and stories with confidence and pride.
The benefits of visual art go far beyond the art room. As students experiment with colours, shapes, and textures, they build critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They learn to take creative risks, make decisions, and embrace new challenges, all key skills for lifelong learning.
Collaboration is also at the heart of our program. Students work together on inspiring group projects, building teamwork, communication, and empathy along the way. These shared creative experiences help foster a strong sense of community within our school.
Our students also explore art from around the world, discovering different cultures, traditions, and time periods. This broadens their perspectives and nurtures a deep appreciation for diversity and global creativity.
At Oakwood Primary School, visual art connects with all areas of learning, from mathematics to literacy and beyond, making education more engaging, meaningful, and dynamic.
At Oakwood, every child is an artist, and every creation tells a story.
