Learning Co-operative

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 ot

her 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.

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.

As part of National Reconciliation Week we were joined by Sean from to learn about aboriginal culture, music and art. T...
29/05/2026

As part of National Reconciliation Week we were joined by Sean from to learn about aboriginal culture, music and art. The sessions included learning about different boomerangs, the emu caller, the woomera, spears and more. We heard the story of Yidaki, who was said to have used the first instrument, had the opportunity to have our face painted with ochre and made a Bunjil the Wedge-tailed Eagle and waa the crow mural paining 🦅
We continue our learning over the course of the National Reconciliation Week and embed Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander perspectives across all areas of the curriculum over the year.

Our theme for this term is “The Future” with a focus on STEM and sustainability 🌱 What does the future look like for the...
21/04/2026

Our theme for this term is “The Future” with a focus on STEM and sustainability 🌱 What does the future look like for the students at Co-op?

Cultural walk to the iut (eel) traps and Toe Hold tree at Garambi Baan, Laughing Waters in Eltham to round out a wonderf...
02/04/2026

Cultural walk to the iut (eel) traps and Toe Hold tree at Garambi Baan, Laughing Waters in Eltham to round out a wonderful term.

You're invited to come along to our next Open Day! Please RSVP via the website.
31/03/2026

You're invited to come along to our next Open Day! Please RSVP via the website.

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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