Kitchen Garden

At our school, we are proud to offer the Kitchen Garden Program that connects students with the joy of growing, harvesting, preparing, and sharing fresh, seasonal produce. Our students have a weekly Kitchen Garden sessions  and through hands-on experiences in the garden and kitchen, students learn practical life skills while exploring sustainability, healthy eating, and teamwork. The program encourages curiosity about where food comes from and fosters respect for the environment through composting, recycling, and caring for plants. Our students develop confidence, cooperation, and a sense of pride as they see the fruits of their labour come to life — from garden bed to table.

AUSLAN

Our school offers AUSLAN (Australian Sign Language) as part of our language program, providing students with the opportunity to develop communication skills in a visual language and deepen their understanding of Deaf culture and community. Through engaging, hands-on learning experiences, students learn to use signs, facial expressions, and body language to communicate effectively. The AUSLAN Program promotes inclusivity, empathy, and awareness of different ways people communicate. By learning AUSLAN, our students build valuable lifelong skills that celebrate diversity and strengthen connections within our school and the wider community.

Woodworking

Our Grade 5/6 students are fortunate to take part in an exciting Woodwork Program in partnership with the Birregurra Men’s Shed. Each week, students roll up their sleeves to create unique works of art while learning real world woodworking and trade skills such as measuring and marking out, sawing, drilling, sanding, and safe tool use.

This hands-on learning experience not only builds confidence and creativity, but also strengthens meaningful connections within our community. It has quickly become a major highlight of the week at Colac West Primary School, with students eagerly looking forward to working alongside the talented members of the Men’s Shed and proudly showcasing their growing skills.

Music & Performing Arts

At Colac West Primary School, students participate in weekly Music/ Performing Arts sessions that foster creativity, confidence, and self-expression. Music lessons engage students through a range of contemporary and age-appropriate songs while developing their understanding of musical concepts, instrumental skills, and performance techniques.

In Performing Arts, students progressively build their skills in preparation for the school’s annual concert at the COPACC Theatre, a much-anticipated highlight of the school year that showcases student talent and achievement.

Additionally, all students participate in the STOMP Dance Company program, a five-week intensive dance experience that develops coordination, teamwork, and performance skills. The program culminates in a vibrant dance showcase, providing students with an opportunity to celebrate their learning and perform for the school community.

MARC & MACC Programs

Our students benefit from regular visits from the MARC and MACC services, which provide specialist Library and Art learning opportunities and resources that enrich the curriculum.

MARC (Mobile Area Resource Centre) focuses on literacy and literature. Through engaging lessons and access to a wide range of books, students develop a love of reading while building their comprehension, research and critical thinking skills. 

MACC (Mobile Art and Craft Centre) provides specialist visual arts education. Students explore a variety of artistic techniques, materials and creative processes through hands-on art and craft activities that encourage imagination and self-expression.

These programs support learning across the Victorian Curriculum and give students access to high-quality specialist teaching and resources in both literacy and the arts.