Investigative Learning

Balmain Public School embraces contemporary education as part of its future-focused vision for teaching and learning, which aims to ensure our students develop 21st Century learning capabilities, that will enable them to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Throughout K-2, we have implemented Investigative Learning, an inquiry- and play-based program, that incorporates a flexible environment, authentic materials and open-ended tasks.

What does research tell us about play and learning?

Play-based learning suits children's brain development. Children learn when they:

·             are active and doing things

·             can touch and move things around

·             work with others and talk about what they are doing and learning

·             know how their learning relates to their home and community life

·             build on and extend what they already know and can do

·             are supported and challenged to learn more complex things

·             are given opportunities to express their ideas, thinking and preferences

·             make decisions about their learning.

When children engage in planned play-based learning experiences, they are doing all these things.

What is the teacher’s role in play?

Our teachers plan and provide play-based learning experiences that build on children’s interests. This motivates them to explore, investigate and try out new things. As the children play, teachers guide their learning. They do this by talking to the children about what they are doing, giving feedback and asking children questions to get them to think more deeply.

What does my child learn when they play?

As they play, children learn the academic skills that are required in the school curriculum as well as important skills and tools that will help them now and into the future, in all areas of their life, for example:

·             communicating and getting along with others

·             managing themselves and their emotions

·             thinking skills such as how to work through and solve problems

·             movement skills and coordination

·             concentration, focus and persistence

·             imagination and creativity.

Is my child learning all the English and mathematics they need to?

Yes. Our teachers carefully plan the experiences they provide for children to address all of the curriculum syllabus outcomes.

How does play help my child’s transition into school?

Children are already used to play-based learning when they start school. Continuing to learn through play at school helps them feel comfortable, confident and ready to learn new things.

How can I find out more?

We encourage you to read more about play-based learning. These are good places to start: