At Berinba Public School we use an integrated curriculum. A holistic and student centered approach that weaves together multiple subject areas into meaningful learning experiences.
Instead of approaching subjects like mathematics, science, history, and creative arts as separate entities, an integrated curriculum encourages students to explore and understand how these areas interconnect, fostering a deeper and more cohesive understanding of the world.
This approach recognises that knowledge is not isolated but is interconnected, much like the real world.
For example, a lesson on the water cycle might simultaneously incorporate scientific principles, historical perspectives on water management, artistic representations of water, and language skills as students write about their findings.
By linking subjects together, students develop a well-rounded perspective, where each lesson contributes to a broader understanding of complex concepts.
Our integrated curriculum approach promotes active learning and critical thinking by encouraging students to ask questions, solve problems, and make connections across different areas of knowledge.
It encourages collaboration and teamwork, as students often work on projects that require them to apply skills and knowledge from various subject areas and learning skills.
This approach also allows for more personalised learning, as students can pursue their interests in various subjects, making learning more engaging and relevant.
This approach also allows our teachers to plan more creatively and flexibly, designing lessons that draw from realworld issues and experiences. By using a thematic approach, students can dive deeper into topics that interest them, explore real-world problems, and develop essential skills like communication, problem-solving, and creativity.
One of the key benefits of an integrated curriculum is its ability to foster a love of learning. By showing students how knowledge from different subjects is interconnected and relevant to their daily lives, they are more likely to see learning as an exciting and ongoing journey rather than a series of unrelated tasks.
This approach also prepares students for the future by equipping them with the interdisciplinary skills necessary to navigate an ever-changing world.
Cross curriculum content enriches and supports the learning areas and adds depth to student learning. In NSW students study a range of learning across the curriculum content.
Cross curriculum priorities
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures
- Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia
- sustainability
General capabilities
- critical and creative thinking
- ethical understanding
- information and communication technology capability
- intercultural understanding
- literacy
- numeracy
- personal and social capability
Other learning across the curriculum areas
- civics and citizenship
- difference and diversity
- work and enterprise.
© NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) for and on behalf of the Crown in right of the State of New South Wales, 2012
Excursions
Educational excursions are an integral part of each class program. Parents are made fully aware of excursion details, and no pupil may be included without the written consent of his/her parent or guardian. Excursion costs to cover transport and accommodation where applicable, must be met by participating pupils. Pupils who do not travel with their class on excursion are required to attend school, where they will be accommodated in other classes. Payment plans can be arranged through the Principal if required