Theodore Primary School

Principal's Message – Theodore Primary School

Theodore Primary School is situated in Canberra's culturally and historically significant Tuggeranong valley. The valley has been recognised as a significant area to the Ngunnawal people and contains a number of significant sites within the local area.

Theodore Primary School opened its doors to children of the valley in 1991.  The school caters for students ranging from preschool to Year 6 and prides itself on providing a stimulating, balanced curriculum that encourages lifelong learning.  Decision making is a shared responsibility and the community is active in the education of our students.

The staff at Theodore Primary School are committed professionals who work together to explicitly teach English and Mathematical skills which support students to be literate and numerate members of society. Students in preschool and kindergarten engage with investigation based learning, where students are given opportunities to extend their knowledge in areas that are of interest to them. Each student spends time as a focus child, photographer and reporter which enables them to demonstrate and articulate their learning.  Our students in years 1 to 6 participate in an inquiry or project-based learning approach. Student learning is based on the investigation of questions, scenarios or problems.  We encourage students to inquire, think, question, plan, create and reflect in order to make meaning of their learning. We have specialist teachers delivering Science and PE curriculum and provide a wide range of opportunities that meet the needs of our students including Minilit (phonological/phonemic awareness skills), EALD support, school library, ICAS competitions, West African Drumming club, Instrumental Music Program (ukulele band), Choir  and KultureBreak dance.

At Theodore Primary School we pride ourselves on being sensitive to students’ individual emotional needs. As part of our daily practice we ensure that mindfulness and explicit social skills are taught.

We believe in strong community connections and enjoy offering after hours events which strengthen relationships and give students the opportunity to participate in learning alongside parents, carers and friends. Theodore Primary School works hard to build strong relationships between the students, staff, parents and the community.  Children are respected and encouraged to develop their potential in all areas through a forward-thinking approach to education.  Our policies and programs are developed to provide a safe, caring and inclusive environment where all our students achieve their best and know they are successful.

Theodore Primary School is a community of learners that I feel very privileged to work with. I look forward to the educational year ahead.

Denis Dickinson

Principal