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Prep

A Confident Start

First Steps at Hills

Starting school is an important milestone for both children and their families. At Hills, we understand that the transition to Prep is about more than learning new skills. It is about building confidence, developing independence, forming friendships and fostering a love of learning that will last a lifetime.

Educational Excellence

At Hills, Prep students begin their learning journey in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP), where curiosity, creativity and student agency are nurtured from the very first day. Through a balanced approach of play, inquiry and explicit teaching, children develop strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, communication and social skills while building confidence as learners.

Learning experiences are carefully designed to challenge, engage and inspire, encouraging students to think deeply, ask questions and develop a lifelong love of learning. PYP Units of Inquiry also connect learning across specialist subjects, creating rich, meaningful and interconnected experiences that help children make sense of the world around them.

Learning Through Play

Purposeful play is at the heart of learning in Prep and is recognised as a powerful way young children learn best. Play-based experiences provide opportunities for students to explore ideas, solve problems, develop creativity and build important social skills.

Through carefully planned learning environments, children are encouraged to experiment, collaborate and take risks in their thinking. These experiences support both academic development and personal growth while fostering independence, resilience and confidence.

Nurturing Curiosity

Inquiry is a key feature of the Primary Years Programme and encourages children to become active participants in their own learning. Students are supported to ask questions, investigate ideas, explore different perspectives and make meaningful connections between their learning and everyday life.

By engaging in inquiry-based learning, children develop curiosity, critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the world around them. This approach empowers students to take ownership of their learning and builds the skills and dispositions that will support success throughout their years of schooling.

A Strong Foundation for the Future

The Prep year lays the foundation for future learning, wellbeing and growth. Through a combination of play, inquiry and explicit teaching, students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. At Hills, every child is supported to grow as a capable, curious and engaged learner, ready for the next stage of their educational journey.