Learning in Prep

In Prep children learn in many different ways including play, organised games, and investigation. They develop important life skills by working with other children and adults. Prep makes connections between school and what your child learns at home and in early childhood education and care.

Prep helps your child develop:

  • a positive approach to learning
  • independence and confidence
  • thinking and problem-solving skills
  • language skills
  • early literacy and numeracy
  • physical abilities.

Prep curriculum

Prep teachers in state schools (and most non-state schools) use the Foundation Year of the Australian Curriculum (PDF, 1.5MB) to guide children’s learning. The Foundation Year in the Australian Curriculum refers to the year before Year 1. In Queensland this is called Prep.

Learning through play

When children start Prep they move to a more structured learning environment, but they continue to learn through play.

During play children make decisions, solve problems, develop thinking and teamwork skills, communicate, and develop a positive sense of themselves.

Types of play used to help Prep children learn may include:

  • manipulative—doing puzzles, making necklaces or constructions
  • games with rules—playing board and card games or outdoor games with rules
  • exploratory—using blocks to investigate weight, height, number, shape and balance
  • fantasy—children creating props for space adventures
  • physical—moving through obstacle courses, climbing, running.

Other activities like music, painting and drawing encourage language, reading and writing skills.

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