Learning Co-operative

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Learning Co-operative An alternative approach to primary education. The Co-op values play and child-inspired learning. The very name ‘the Co-op” acknowledges this reciprocal effect.

In 1973 the Learning Co-operative was set up by a group of parents as an alternative to the education systems that were available at primary school level. Collaborating closely with education innovators from Latrobe University, this new concept of a ‘Learning Co-operative’ emerged. Child-inspired learning creates an environment where parents learn also, not only from the children but from each other as well. Activities and projects provide opportunities for parents and children to participate and learn together. Excursions, camps and visitors to the school enhance this shared experience of learning. We believe that, when provided with a positive and supportive environment, children have a natural curiosity and desire to learn. Natural curiosity and passion are at the heart of both teaching and learning at the Co-op. Co-op is seen to be part of a life-long learning process, which doesn’t start and finish with the school day. The aim is to respect each child, accept their individual development and recognize the child’s ownership of their own learning. We also support non-authoritarian conflict resolution processes that respect differences and empower the children to develop solutions that meet everyone’s needs.

That’s a wrap on term 3. Have a wonderful break!
18/09/2026

That’s a wrap on term 3. Have a wonderful break!

Warmly inviting you to join our term 4 Open Day. Please register your interest via our website, link in bio. See you the...
03/09/2026

Warmly inviting you to join our term 4 Open Day. Please register your interest via our website, link in bio. See you there!

Did you catch our students’ work on display at Artsbridge Art Exhibition presented by Hurstbridge Primary School over th...
31/08/2026

Did you catch our students’ work on display at Artsbridge Art Exhibition presented by Hurstbridge Primary School over the weekend? While we may be a small school, we have our lion’s share of young artists.

Enjoying the seasons turning with some collaborative wattle painting on table runners and individual artworks; painting ...
26/08/2026

Enjoying the seasons turning with some collaborative wattle painting on table runners and individual artworks; painting outside, mixing paint to try and get the right greens and studying different wattle leaves and structures of the different plants.

We’ll be at Hurstbridge Wattle Festival this weekend. Come say hi!

Our littlies (prep-2) set off to the local wetlands with their nature journals to observe and document the birdlife. We’...
17/08/2026

Our littlies (prep-2) set off to the local wetlands with their nature journals to observe and document the birdlife. We’re fortune our local environment supports diverse birdlife across its waterways, forests and woodlands. We have a commitment at Co-op to include sustainability as a genuine theme throughout our teaching and learning. Our aim is that students develop a love and respect for the natural world through real life experiences such as this.

For over 20 years, Learning Co-operative has been part of the Boîte Schools Chorus, and our kids absolutely love it! ❤️T...
11/08/2026

For over 20 years, Learning Co-operative has been part of the Boîte Schools Chorus, and our kids absolutely love it! ❤️

There is a different cultural theme every year. This year, Akoma – The Heart, took us on a vibrant musical journey through the culture and music of Ghana, with stories, dance and song bringing it all to life.

We love watching our kids grow in confidence, experience new cultures and, of course, be completely mesmerised by the magic of hundreds of young voices singing together.

What a special tradition to be part of!

At school this week: Sculpting heads in clay, exploring faces, recognisable features and transforming/ exaggerating the ...
06/08/2026

At school this week: Sculpting heads in clay, exploring faces, recognisable features and transforming/ exaggerating the form without loosing the essence of the head.

Some of the more quiet moments of learning captured during the past week.
27/07/2026

Some of the more quiet moments of learning captured during the past week.

Welcome back to term 3, concert term!
13/07/2026

Welcome back to term 3, concert term!

We’d like to extend the invite to the community to our annual solstice event ✨🌙Thank you to Community Bank Valley Group.
11/06/2026

We’d like to extend the invite to the community to our annual solstice event ✨🌙
Thank you to Community Bank Valley Group.

Address

10 Laceys Road
Cottles Bridge, VIC
3099

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 3pm
Wednesday 9am - 3pm
Thursday 9am - 3pm
Friday 9am - 3pm

Telephone

+61397181481

Website

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