A distinct primary campus for boys in Reception (Prep) to Year 6
Churchie’s Preparatory School (Reception to Year 6) provides the best foundation for learning in a caring, structured and nurturing environment.
Guided by expert teachers who understand how boys learn best, boys build strong foundations in literacy, numeracy and character. Supported by state-of-the-art facilities and resources, our boy-responsive curriculum challenges boys intellectually, fosters curiosity and encourages active engagement in learning. Across the preparatory years, boys grow into articulate, confident and increasingly independent learners developing the knowledge, values and sense of purpose that prepare them for future learning and leadership.
Three ways to begin your journey
Students can begin their Churchie journey in the Preparatory School at three key entry points. Each entry point provides a nurturing introduction to the School for new students.
Where every boy’s journey begins
A smaller intake and an early entry point
A key entry point ahead of Senior School
Reception to Year 2
Two classes
In Reception (Prep) to Year 2, Churchie’s youngest boys begin their school journey in a caring, stimulating environment that celebrates curiosity, confidence and joy in learning.
As our main intake year, Reception is where most boys begin at Churchie. From their very first day, boys build school readiness and become part of the Churchie community. The connections formed in these early years grow with each boy, along with a sense of belonging that deepens through the years ahead.
With an expert teacher and dedicated teacher aide in each classroom, boys build strong foundations in literacy and numeracy through evidence-based teaching, while specialist lessons in Music, Visual Arts, Japanese, Physical Education and Library broaden their learning from the very beginning.
As boys progress into Years 1 and 2, they continue to learn in an environment that grows with them. Rich in care and encouragement, these years foster independence and responsibility, laying strong foundations for the more formal years of primary learning ahead.
Reception Entry Programme
Read the booklet to find out more.
Years 3 and 4
Three classes
In Years 3 and 4, boys develop confidence, independence and a strong sense of belonging as they engage in a broad range of learning, sport and cocurricular opportunities.
As a smaller intake, Year 3 is an extremely valuable early entry point allowing boys time to settle in, form friendships and build continuity before the larger Year 5 intake and the move into Senior School. With places limited, it is an ideal opportunity to join Churchie early.
At this stage, boys begin to take greater ownership of their learning while continuing to be supported within the caring and connected environment of the Preparatory School.
Music Immersion Programme begins in Year 3, with every boy learning a string instrument.
The 1:1 tablet programme supports the development of essential digital literacy and media arts skills in everyday learning.
Devices are introduced in a structured, age-appropriate way and used purposefully under teacher guidance to support learning rather than distract from it.
A broad range of cocurricular sports and activities continues to engage and inspire boys beyond the classroom.
Years 5 and 6
Six classes
In Years 5 and 6, boys grow in independence and leadership as senior students of the Preparatory School, becoming part of a diverse and welcoming community.
As an additional intake year, Year 5 is the key entry point ahead of Senior School. Boys gain earlier access to the opportunities, relationships and rhythms of Churchie life, settling in well before their senior years. Rich learning experiences, leadership roles and full participation in sport and cocurricular activities help them develop the capability and independence for a smooth transition into Senior School.
Supported by a range of academic pathways that challenge and extend them, boys are encouraged to think critically, act with integrity and develop a strong sense of purpose. Participation and leadership within the house system foster belonging, teamwork and school spirit, while opportunities for service nurture compassion and a commitment to serving others. Alongside this, boys are fully involved in the breadth of cocurricular opportunities offered through the GPS competition.
Aquila Class
Read the booklet to find out more about the Preparatory School Years 5 and 6 Aquila Class.
The Churchie advantage
Personal growth
Personal growth is intentionally nurtured throughout the Preparatory School, where boys develop confidence, resilience and a strong sense of self within the security of a dedicated primary school.
Guided by our mission, the making of men, boys grow in character, compassion and purpose. Through leadership, coeducational experiences and spiritual growth, they learn to serve others and contribute positively to their community.
Pastoral care
Pastoral care in the Preparatory School is grounded in strong relationships, with each boy known, supported and guided by caring teachers who place wellbeing at the heart of teaching.
Through a coordinated approach involving class teachers, the house system, outdoor education and specialist support, boys grow in their social and emotional development in a safe, values-rich environment.
Our curriculum
Learning in the Preparatory School is active, engaging and academically rigorous, shaped by a deep understanding of how boys learn best. Teachers know their boys well and design learning that meets each boy at his age and stage, balancing high expectations with genuine care, encouragement and support.
In this purposeful environment, boys are encouraged to think deeply, ask questions, embrace challenge and take pride in their progress. Through a curriculum that supports the holistic development of each boy, they grow in intellectual curiosity, character and purpose.
Academic results
Churchie’s Preparatory School students consistently perform above the national average in NAPLAN literacy and numeracy assessments. These strong results reflect high-quality teaching, a deep understanding of each boy as a learner and targeted support that helps boys make meaningful progress and achieve their personal best.
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