Programs & Pedagogy
How teaching and learning work at Cambrai
At Cambrai Primary School and Preschool, our teaching approach is intentional, responsive and grounded in strong relationships.
As a small rural learning community, our educators know children and families well. This allows us to personalise learning, respond quickly to individual needs and support every child to experience success and growth.
Our teaching practices are guided by the Australian Curriculum and the Early Years Learning Framework, and informed by evidence-based programs and ongoing assessment. We focus on strong foundations in literacy and numeracy while providing rich learning experiences that develop curiosity, confidence and responsibility.
Early Childhood Learning and Community Connection
Learning at Cambrai begins well before children start school.
Through Playgroup, Occasional Care and Preschool, families are welcomed into our learning community from the earliest years supporting a confident and familiar transition into school.. These programs support children to develop confidence, social skills and curiosity through play-based learning while helping families build connections with the school and community.
Our Preschool (Ngawandi) provides a nurturing environment where children explore, create, communicate and develop independence, supporting a smooth transition into school.
Strong Foundations in Literacy
Developing confident readers and writers is a priority at Cambrai.
In the early years, students build strong reading foundations through structured phonics instruction supported by programs such as Sounds-Write and PLD (Promoting Literacy Development).
As students progress through the school, teachers continue to develop reading, writing and communication skills through structured teaching, guided practice and meaningful writing opportunities.
Writing development is supported through tools such as Brightpath, which helps teachers assess progress and guide students to improve their writing over time.
Our goal is for all students to become confident communicators who can read, write and express their ideas effectively.
Building Strong Mathematical Thinking
At Cambrai, mathematics learning focuses on developing deep understanding and confidence.
Students build their mathematical knowledge through structured teaching and problem-solving experiences that help them develop a strong understanding of how numbers work.
Programs such as Big Ideas in Number and Back-to-Front Maths support teachers to develop strong number sense and mathematical reasoning.
Students are encouraged to explore different strategies, explain their thinking and apply mathematics to real-life situations.
Supporting Wellbeing and Learning Readiness
Students learn best when they feel safe, connected and ready to learn.
Our staff use approaches such as the Berry Street Education Model and Interoception strategies to support emotional regulation, resilience and positive relationships.
These approaches help students develop the skills they need to manage emotions, build friendships and engage confidently in learning.
Personalised Learning and Targeted Support
Every child’s learning journey is unique.
Teachers use ongoing assessment to identify learning needs and adjust teaching accordingly. In our small school setting, targeted support or extension can be provided when needed.
Our School Support Officers work alongside teachers to support students in literacy, numeracy, motor skills and social-emotional learning.
Technology Supporting Learning
Digital technologies support learning across the curriculum.
Students have access to devices such as laptops and iPads, which are used to support research, creativity, communication and collaboration.
Technology is used as a tool to enhance learning, allowing students to explore ideas, create and share their thinking in different ways.
Learning Languages
Students at Cambrai learn Indonesian from Reception to Year 6, helping them develop communication skills and cultural understanding.
Learning a language encourages curiosity about the wider world and supports students to understand different cultures and perspectives.
Student Leadership
Student voice and leadership are important parts of learning at Cambrai. We encourage students to take responsibility, contribute to the community and support others. Through leadership opportunities, students develop confidence, teamwork and an understanding that their ideas and actions can make a positive difference.
Why Our Teaching Approach Matters
At Cambrai, learning grows through connection — to people, to place and to the wider community. Our programs and teaching practices work together to support every learner to grow with confidence and purpose.
Through strong relationships, evidence-based teaching and meaningful learning experiences connected to place and community, we aim to help students develop the knowledge, confidence and curiosity they need for the future.
At Cambrai, learning is not just about knowledge — it is about belonging, understanding and contributing to the world around us.