School Profile

At Essendon Primary School, our vision is focused on providing high quality, challenging educational programs that meet the needs of all our students. We operate within a strong framework of values and behaviours based on respect, trust and collaboration.

The school atmosphere at Essendon Primary is supportive and friendly, where education is an enjoyable experience. Essendon aims to develop in students an ability to maximise their potential in all area of development. Through our emphasis on Habits of Mind we encourage our students to function independently and cooperatively within the community. Dedicated staff adopt a flexible approach to teaching and learning with emphasis on integrated curriculum/thinking curriculum.

The school has been organised to maintain a stable structure from year to year, dependent upon numbers. There are straight Prep classes with all other classes being composite. Students have the opportunity to participate in a broad range of programs that not only support their classroom programs but also allow them to have an enriched experience throughout their years at Essendon Primary School. A before and after school program operates within the school run by the YMCA.

There are specialist Art, Music and LOTE (Japanese) classes, with formal LOTE beginning in grade 3. Computers are used in the classrooms to support classroom programs and the library has a small bank of computers. The school has had a strong Arts focus incorporating drama, music, dance and visual art, involving the whole school community. Until the end of 2005 the school provided a comprehensive instrumental music program, incorporating instruments such as keyboard, guitar, woodwind, brass, percussion and voice. The program has been outsourced for 2006, with about 180 students involved.

The school community successfully worked with Moonee Valley Council to have part of Nicholson Street closed to claim land which increased the oval area of the school. The school has an adventure playground area covered by a shade sail. This provides the children with climbing apparatus to assist physical development and socialisation. The playground area is a combination of asphalt and grassed areas. Other features include bat tennis courts, a netball/basketball court and quiet shady areas.

The school community provides strong support for the school through active involvement in School Council and the Parents Association, working bees, assistance in classrooms and fund raising. There is a strong sense of community at Essendon Primary School.