Senior primary is an exciting chapter for students and their families, where foundations are built, and students begin exploring skills essential for high school and beyond. At this stage in their education, Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) primary schools encourage students to take greater ownership of their learning, building confidence and cultivating a sense of responsibility. This approach nurtures deeper engagement and resilience, preparing students for the more complex academic tasks and personal responsibilities they will encounter in secondary school.
In partnership with schools, families play a key role in supporting this growth. Below are some tips and ideas to encourage independent learning at home, creating a balanced, supportive environment for students to thrive.
Home learning opportunities
Use everyday activities as opportunities for new learning experiences. For instance, involve them in cooking a new recipe to practise following instructions and understanding processes.
Family connections
Encourage learning connections within the family by engaging siblings or peers in shared tasks and group learning experiences.
Establish routines
Find a flexible routine that works for your family’s unique schedule. Routines provide structure but don’t need to be rigid, allowing for family connection and study times.
Encourage reading
Ask your child about books they’re reading. Engaging in discussions helps them analyse content and develop a critical perspective on what they’re studying.
Engage with their learning
Regularly talk about their learning. Ask what they’re working on or exploring next to foster their excitement and interest.
Learning through movement
Create time for age-appropriate physical activities, like walking, gardening, painting, or yoga. These screen-free breaks help reset and refresh their focus.
Outdoor exploration
Encourage time outdoors for movement and play. Activities outside can provide a meditative study break and stimulate creativity.
Wellbeing check-ins
Supporting your child’s wellbeing is just as important as their academics. Incorporate mindfulness practices, and remember, reaching out to the school for support is always an option.
Learning with technology
Plan purposeful use of technology to support learning, distinguishing it from leisure screen time to ensure balance.
Create a dedicated learning space
Set up a dedicated study area outside the bedroom if possible, where your child can work independently while you remain nearby for occasional support.
Community resources
Make use of local resources, such as council libraries, which offer access to books, technology, and programs to enrich learning. Libraries often provide study spaces, workshops, and community activities that promote reading, creativity, and collaboration, supporting both academic and personal growth.