Quality education in the heart of the Adelaide Hills
Here at Upper Sturt Primary School, we embrace our unique environment to offer evidence-based education with a focus on nature and community. We acknowledge that our school sits on the traditional lands of the Kaurna people, and we respect their spiritual relationship with Country.
Bush school gives students from reception to Year 6 access to heritage-listed bushland as well as our Food Forest, Market Garden, Fire Pit Circle, Reconciliation Garden, Amphitheatre, Colonial Cubby and Bush Village, where they can explore, develop and apply their learning in practical, ‘hands on’, natural environments
“I like the relationships between students and teachers” Audrey, Yr 6
“I love learning in and about nature” Scout, Yr 2
We pride ourselves on equipping children with a deep sense of belonging through positive, trusting relationships with each other and with staff. Modern pedagogical practice, combined with a commitment to student wellbeing, ensures a holistic approach to each child’s development.
We intentionally deliver the Australian Curriculum through explicit teaching, differentiation, targeted support and a gradual release of responsibility.
We support our students to be challenged, to create agency and to develop skills as active citizens and critical thinkers.
Our educational program gives each student the chance to develop confidence and competence in their learning, relationships and interpersonal skills. We celebrate individual strengths and personal accomplishments alongside academic achievement and growth.
Welcome to Upper Sturt Primary School, a small school with a big vision.
Adam Blakely
Principal
“I love all the outdoor learning we get to do” Ethan, Yr 5
Our teaching approach is mapped to the Australian Curriculum. Students learn through intentional, sequential and explicit teaching of concepts that embed and enhance skills in:
- Literacy
- Numeracy
- Technologies
- STEM
- Health & PE
- Kaurna
- The Arts
Each week our students spend 3 hours learning about nature in our rich outdoor environment. Through the practical, hands-on Kamana Program, they develop skills in:
- Rope
- Nature
- Fire
- Woodcraft
- Weather
- Shelter
- The Senses
Kamana also builds life skills including communication, teamwork, resilience, organisation, responsibility, problem-solving and independence – all mapped to the Australian Curriculum: Science.
Our dedicated teaching and support staff work together to empower all students. They foster a connection with nature to create confident and successful learners, and promote our values of kindness, resilience, independence and curiosity.
To learn more about Upper Sturt Primary School, book a school tour or enquire about enrolment
As a small school, we pride ourselves on our strong sense of community.
In fact, our infrastructure promotes a genuine community feeling where relationships between students, teachers and families provide the foundation for a sense of belonging, safety and security. We thrive through strong support from parents and community leaders.
“Staff encourage the expression of individual strengths and personalities. They encourage wonderings and contribution with non-judgement and acceptance, expertly using these to connect students with their learning and to motivate development, progress and achievement. They are professional, genuine, patient and kind. They celebrate success. They invite individuals to share who they are and promote a sense of belonging and therefore confidence to shine. The structure of the whole school approach encourages each child’s sense of belonging, purpose and value. They are not lost in a sea of faces and start their day as a group – connecting, sharing stories, setting learning intentions and reinforcing the positive and respectful learning culture of our school.”
Jessica Jones, Parent at Upper Sturt Primary School