Advancing Literacy and Numeracy

Marsden Primary is committed to building strong foundations in literacy and numeracy through evidence-based programmes. Our iDeaL Structured Literacy approach and PR1ME Mathematics curriculum align with international best practices, offering teaching that is explicit, cumulative and systematic. These programmes are deeply embedded in our learning programme and ensure that students excel in their early years. With regular assessment to track progress, and comprehensive student reporting, every child is supported to achieve their full potential.

We prepare our learners for the future by encouraging them to think critically. Creative problem solving, key thinking skills, managing self and collaborating with others are amongst the skills actively incorporated within our teaching.

Physical Education

Marsden Primary’s physical education programme inspires a love for activity and teaches key life skills. With our specialist PE teacher, students across all year levels enjoy engaging activities that build teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship. Early emphasis on listening and collaboration provides a strong foundation, while exposure to various sports helps students set personal goals, improve hand-eye coordination, body awareness and overall fitness.

Music Programme

Marsden Primary’s music programme, led by our dedicated Music specialist, offers every student the chance to explore a new instrument each year, including violin, cello, ukulele and recorder. Students also participate in one of our Primary choirs and take part in our annual junior music festival, fostering both musical skill and a love of performance.

Digital Technology

STEAM

Marsden Primary’s STEAM curriculum engages students in hands-on exploration of science, technology, arts, and the world around them. This dynamic approach integrates the arts into our inquiry-based learning, allowing students to investigate science both in our labs and in real-world contexts.

Through collaboration with our Artist in Residence and various classroom activities, students create visual art using diverse mediums like screen printing and sculpture. Gallery visits enable them to analyse and discuss local artworks, enhancing their ability to make informed judgments.

Marsden Primary also participates annually in the EPro8 engineering competition, where our own kits help students develop essential problem-solving, engineering and electronics skills throughout the year, equipping them for future challenges in the STEM field.

Language

We are committed to fostering a rich understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand's culture through our dedicated specialist in Te Reo Māori and Kapa Haka. Students engage in language lessons that introduce them to vocabulary and pronunciation while exploring traditional Māori performing arts through Kapa Haka.

Library Information

Each primary class enjoys weekly sessions with our specialist librarians in our well-equipped library, where students discover new books and develop their reading skills, fostering a lifelong love of literature. Older students also visit the iCentre to deepen their understanding of information, research, and library skills with guidance from our Head of the iCentre and Primary Library.

Personalised Learning

We are dedicated to meeting the individual needs of every student and offer tailored interventions when needed. Our specialist learning support teacher and our Arrowsmith Program® allow us to deliver comprehensive support. We work closely with parents, adopting a collaborative approach to ensure students with additional learning needs receive the care and resources they need to thrive.

Personalised Learning is provided for students who have been identified as needing extra support. This is designed to meet the learner's specific needs and is done in collaboration with the classroom teacher, families and support staff.