Junior School

At Penrhos, we’re committed to helping every student achieve her personal best. Our specialist teachers in Learning Enhancement, Mathematics Extension and Gifted and Talented Education work closely with students to provide the right level of challenge and support.

Classroom teachers identify when extra support or extension is needed, and we partner with families to create tailored learning plans that suit each child’s needs.

Gifted and Talented students are individually case-managed and may take part in academic competitions and subject acceleration where appropriate. We believe in stretching young minds and creating opportunities that inspire deep thinking and a love of learning.

At Penrhos, we believe that some of the most powerful learning happens outside the traditional classroom. Our students are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new experiences and grow through real-world exploration. These moments build resilience, independence and lifelong memories.

From the early years, students engage in exciting incursions and excursions designed to enrich their learning and spark curiosity. In Year 2, our girls enjoy their first 'overseas adventure' – a much-loved day trip to Rottnest Island. In Year 4, the journey continues with the first overnight outdoor education camp, leading into a two-night stay at Swan Valley Adventure Centre in Year 5. These camps offer fun, challenge and connection as students learn teamwork, courage and problem-solving in a natural setting.

Year 6 Canberra Tour

The highlight of Junior School is the unforgettable Year 6 Canberra Tour, a milestone experience with visits to national landmarks like Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, Questacon and the National Museum. This unforgettable interstate experience builds independence and a strong sense of achievement.

Junior School Japan Tour

Every two years, students in Years 5 and 6 are invited to take part in the Japan Tour, an exciting opportunity to practice their Japanese language skills acquired through their studies during Junior School. They experience a vibrant culture firsthand while building on their confidence, global understanding and a sense of adventure that stays with them for life.

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These programs are rooted in the principles of experiential learning, where students learn by doing, then reflect on their experiences. Whether engaging intellectually, emotionally, socially or physically, they gain valuable insights and practical skills.

By introducing a safe level of challenge or "good stress", we help students build character and resilience. Just as importantly, we promote student agency, listening to their ideas, valuing their opinions and helping them feel confident in their role as active participants in their own learning journey.

Music is an essential part of the learning journey at Penrhos, and we are proud to offer specialised instrumental programs that inspire creativity, confidence and collaboration. These programs are an exciting part of our Music curriculum, encouraging every student to develop musical skills, perform with confidence and experience the joy of making music with others.

🎻 Year 2 Strings Program

In Year 2, all students participate in our Strings Program, choosing from a range of classical string instruments. Weekly small-group lessons are held during class Music time, led by our specialist music teacher and supported by experienced peripatetic tutors. This hands-on experience introduces students to the joy of playing an instrument and performing together, laying the foundation for musical confidence and teamwork.

Instruments offered: violin, viola, cello, double bass

🎺 Year 5 Band Program

By Year 5, students have the opportunity to explore an even wider range of instruments in our Band Program. Through weekly small-group lessons, students learn a brass, woodwind or percussion instrument and become part of the Year 5 Symphonic Band.

To ensure the best fit, students complete a short assessment of their aural skills and physical suitability. They also rank their top five instrument choices, which helps guide instrument allocation.

Instruments offered: flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, alto saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, bass guitar, percussion

In addition to our strong academic foundation, we offer a variety of co-curricular experiences that enrich and balance the school journey. For students in Pre-Primary to Year 6, our co-curricular program is designed to spark curiosity, develop new skills and nurture individual passions. Most activities run from 3.30-4.30pm, with before- and after-school swimming lessons also available in our Olympic-sized pool.

Our Junior School co-curricular program refreshes each term, offering exciting opportunities in the arts, academics, technology and sport.

Creative and Performing Arts

• 💃 Dance
• 🎶 Junior Voices Choir
• 🎻 Music Ensembles – Strings, Percussion, Wind
• 🎸 Rock Band
• 🎭 Speech and Drama

Academic and Enrichment

• 🧠 Da Vinci Academic Decathlon
• 🛠️ Engineer Quest
• 🌍 Future Problem Solving
• ➗ Maths Mentor
• 📚 Homework Club
• 🎤 Speakers Challenge (public speaking)

Innovation and Technology

• 🧱 Lego Club
• 🧰 Maker Space Construction
• 🎮 Minecraft Club

Sport and Wellness

• 🏉 Sport – AFL, athletics, cricket, tennis, volleyball
• 🏃‍♀️ Running Club

Students are always supervised by staff before their activities begin, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for every child to explore and thrive.