Tinkerbell School
Primary School
At Tinkerbell School, our Primary Department delivers the SPN21 national curriculum through a student-centred approach that balances strong academic foundations with creativity, socio-emotional growth, and values-based learning.
The SPN21 curriculum specifies eight key learning areas, which outline the knowledge and understanding that all students are expected to acquire during their primary school years. These areas are:
Lower Primary (Years 1–3)
The focus is on building the 3Rs (Reading, Writing, Arithmetic) while supporting social and emotional development. Students begin to develop self-confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills alongside their academic growth.
Upper Primary (Years 4–6)
Learning extends to the application of the 3Rs, with students engaging in more complex skills, critical thinking, and value-based education. Personality development, attitudes, and positive behaviours are reinforced to prepare students for secondary school.
Student-Centred Learning
The Primary curriculum emphasises activity-oriented pedagogy — more focus on how students learn, and less on drilling for exams. Teachers encourage inquiry, collaboration, and independence, ensuring that learning is meaningful and enjoyable.
Project-Based Learning (Commenced 2020)
​One of the unique features of Tinkerbell School is our Projects Program, introduced in Primary Year 1 and carried through all primary levels.
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Each student selects a topic or area of personal interest.
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Teachers and parents collaborate to guide and support the project.
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A dedicated Project Supervisor monitors progress and provides feedback.
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Students present their work at the end of the term or year through displays, models, performances, or digital media.
This approach creates a “learning agreement” between the student and teacher, promoting self-motivation, deep understanding, and ownership of learning.
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Assessment & Reporting
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Assessment in the Primary Department includes:
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Classwork, quizzes, and tests
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Project evaluations
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Participation and collaboration
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Teacher observations
Reports are shared with parents to ensure home-school partnership in every child’s progress.