Curriculum and Subjects

At Our Lady of the Rosary, we offer a broad, engaging and challenging curriculum approved by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA). Rooted in the Catholic tradition and supported by the Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay, our teaching and learning programs aim to form young people in Catholic discipleship by offering an experience of following Jesus as part of a vibrant, faith-filled community.

Our Learning Philosophy

At OLOR, we believe that children learn best:

  • In a supportive environment built on quality relationships between students and teachers

  • When learning begins from what they already know

  • Through meaningful, relevant and challenging activities

  • When they are encouraged and supported to achieve excellence

  • Through clear modelling and explicit teaching of concepts

  • When they receive honest and constructive feedback

  • When they have opportunities to reflect on their learning

  • When their successes are recognised and celebrated


English

Our English program supports students from Kindergarten to Year 6 in becoming confident, reflective and capable communicators. The daily literacy block allows for focused, explicit teaching in speaking, listening, reading, writing, viewing and representing.

Key features include:

  • Emphasis on purposeful and imaginative language use

  • Engagement with a variety of texts and media

  • Development of literacy skills across all curriculum areas

  • A strong focus on lifelong learning and language appreciation


Mathematics

Mathematics is taught in accordance with the NSW Mathematics Syllabus. We support students in developing a deep understanding of mathematical concepts and applying them to real-world problems.

Students will:

  • Develop fluency in key mathematical processes

  • Learn to communicate using mathematical language

  • Solve practical and abstract problems with confidence

  • Use technology such as calculators and digital tools to enhance understanding

We have consistent, data-informed assessment practices in place from Kindergarten to Year 6 to track student progress and personalise learning.


Religious Education

As part of the Catholic community, OLOR educates and forms students as disciples of Jesus. Religious Education permeates every aspect of school life including our relationships, routines, pastoral care, policies, and celebrations all reflect our Catholic worldview.

We follow the Diocese of Broken Bay K–12 Religious Education Curriculum, structured around five strands:

  • God, Revelation and Human Destiny

  • Jesus, Human and Divine

  • Church and Discipleship

  • Prayer and Sacraments

  • Sacred Scripture

Our students engage deeply with scripture, participate in liturgies and Masses, and are offered opportunities to live out their faith in meaningful ways.


Science and Technology

We embrace the importance of Science and Technology in our ever-changing world. Learning is based on the NSW K–10 Science Syllabus and encourages inquiry, investigation and creativity.

Students explore concepts through topics such as:

  • What Keeps Us Alive?

  • Backyard Safari

  • Exploring Forces

  • Space

  • Our Changing World

  • Coding, Robotics and Energy

  • Investigating Micro-organisms

They learn to design, test, observe and problem-solve using both digital and hands-on approaches.


Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE)

History

Students develop an understanding of the past and how it shapes the present. They engage with multiple perspectives and historical sources and study topics such as:

  • The Past in the Present

  • Community and Remembrance

  • First Contacts

  • Australian Colonies

  • Australia as a Nation

Geography

Geography inspires students to explore the relationship between people and places. Through geographical inquiry, they learn to think critically about sustainability and global responsibility. Topics include:

  • Features in Places

  • People in Places

  • The Earth’s Environment

  • A Diverse and Connected World

  • Factors that Shape Places


Creative Arts

Students at OLOR express themselves creatively through Visual Arts, Music, Dance, and Drama.

Visual Arts

Each class enjoys a 90-minute fortnightly lesson with specialist Mrs Bhat. Students explore drawing, painting, design, and art appreciation. A much-loved tradition is the Year 6 ‘Archibald’ portrait project, dedicated to someone important in their lives.

Music

Every class has a 40-minute weekly music lesson with Mrs Ann Mason. Students engage in singing, moving, composing, and instrumental activities. Enrichment opportunities include Musica Viva performances and a Performing Arts Night where every child can shine.


Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)

The recommended 2 hours and 45 minutes of PDHPE each week includes:

  • 40-minute specialist PE lessons

  • Weekly sport sessions with the classroom teacher

  • Daily short fitness activities

Students participate in a range of physical activities, including dance, gross motor skills, and team games like Tee Ball and Touch Football. Personal Development and Health units are based on diocesan resources, with parental information provided ahead of sensitive topics.

 


Information Communication & Learning Technologies (ICLT)

Technology is integrated into daily learning. Each classroom is equipped with:

  • Interactive whiteboards

  • Laptops and iPads

Students engage with digital tools and applications including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Canva, Typing, Excel, and web-based research.