Kindergarten Program

Welcome to Kindergarten at Atwell Primary School

Starting Kindergarten is a joyful and important milestone in your child’s learning journey. At Atwell Primary School, we believe every child is a capable, creative and enthusiastic learner. Our Kindergarten program is designed to nurture your child’s strengths, foster independence, and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

Our Philosophy

Atwell PS is a proud Independent Public School committed to building well-rounded citizens with a passion for lifelong learning. Our Early Childhood Education (ECE) philosophy is grounded in:

  • Play-based learning: Children learn best through meaningful play experiences that encourage exploration, imagination, and collaboration.

  • Child-centred pedagogy: We respond to each child’s interests, strengths and needs, creating inclusive and engaging learning environments.

  • Partnerships with families: We value your insights and work together to support your child’s development.

  • Wellbeing and resilience: Through our Health and Wellbeing and Chaplaincy programs, we help children develop emotional literacy, social skills and a sense of belonging.

What Your Child Will Learn

Our Kindergarten curriculum is shaped by the Early Years Learning Framework and the WA Kindergarten Curriculum Guidelines, focusing on five key outcomes:

  • A strong sense of identity

  • Connection with and contribution to their world

  • A strong sense of wellbeing

  • Confidence and involvement in learning

  • Effective communication

Children will engage in a variety of play-based activities including:

  • Imaginative play, storytelling and drama

  • Music, movement and dance

  • Construction, puzzles and problem-solving

  • Outdoor exploration and nature play

  • Digital technologies and creative expression

Getting Ready for Kindergarten

To support a smooth transition, your child will need:

  • A labelled bag, hat, water bottle, and lunchbox

  • A change of clothes (including socks and underwear)

  • Comfortable clothing suitable for messy and active play

We encourage families to attend orientation sessions and meet our passionate Kindergarten educators. These sessions help build relationships and allow us to learn about your child’s interests and strengths.

Supporting Your Child’s Learning

You play a vital role in your child’s education. Atwell PS encourages:

  • Daily conversations about what your child did at Kindy

  • Shared reading, singing and outdoor play

  • Opportunities for imaginative and constructive play at home

  • Volunteering in the classroom or connecting with other families

We also support children with developmental delays or disabilities through collaborative planning with families and external agencies.

Attendance and Wellbeing

Regular attendance helps your child build routines, friendships and learning momentum. Please keep your child home if they are unwell and inform the school. Ensure your child gets enough sleep, eats a nutritious breakfast, and is supported in developing self-care skills like toileting and dressing.

Please contact melissa.hopkins@education.wa.edu for more inforrmation about our Kindergarten program.