Year 5 to 7 at Wesley College

Years 5 and 7 are key entry points at Wesley, and every year we welcome over 250 new students across the College in these year levels.

In the Middle School (Years 5 to 9) students expand their outlook through a variety of academic, cocurricular and experiential learning programs that build understanding, resilience, leadership skills, critical thinking and independence.

Throughout your child's time in the Middle School (Years 5 to 9), they will experience four outdoor education camps, an 8-week Year 9 residential program at Clunes, leadership programs, community service initiatives and cocurricular opportunities in music, theatre and sport. These unparalleled opportunities are complemented by the small school feel at Wesley's Elsternwick Campus where every student feels known, and all the benefits of the world-class resources and facilities of the whole College.

We encourage you to visit our campus on a school tour, ask questions and, when you're ready to apply, secure your place as soon as possible.

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Teaching excellence

Our highly qualified teachers are not just subject experts. They are also experienced in connecting, engaging with and motivating young adolescent learners to reach their personal best. From Year 5, teachers encourage students to expand their outlooks through exposure to new experiences that encourage reflection, critical thinking and independence. Our evidence-based approach to teaching and learning establishes a solid academic foundation for your child ahead of their transition into Senior School.

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Learning and wellbeing

The middle years curriculum provides opportunities for adolescents to learn and grow in ways that acknowledge and respect that this is a special phase in their development. In addition to fostering conventional disciplinary knowledge and intellectual growth, the curriculum places great emphasis on students’ engagement, and their spiritual, emotional and social growth. The curriculum includes academic and pastoral programs, Wesley at Clunes, Outdoor Education, a community service 'Service As Action' component and extensive cocurricular opportunities, including music, theatre and sport.

A college-wide approach to wellbeing permeates everything we do. Our Learning and Wellbeing program, captured by the acronym ROAR (Respect, Opportunity, Achievement and Resilience) is designed to foster connections and build relationships that support new students and parents, creating a strong sense of belonging amongst students, staff and families both within and beyond our College. In the middle years, the evidence-based, sequential program focuses on areas such as self-regulation, body image and healthy habits, communication and conflict resolution, staying safe online and celebrating diversity.

Students at Elsternwick are supported by a cohesive learning environment that encourages deep connection between peers and our dedicated educators. With smaller class sizes, students receive tailored instruction, allowing for individualised learning experiences that cater to their unique strengths and interests. Through collaborative projects, extracurricular activities and shared experiences, our students develop invaluable interpersonal skills, confidence and a strong sense of community spirit.

The IB advantage

Wesley College is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and learning in the middle years is delivered through the IB framework. Students choose between the IB or VCE as they progress into the Senior School depending on their interests, strengths and aspirations.

We approach learning through student-centred inquiry, inspiring curiosity as students explore ideas, questions and concepts that span multiple disciplines including:

the arts
languages (French or Chinese)
mathematics
physical and health education
science
social studies
technology.

Extension programs are also available to ensure gifted students continue to be challenged in Maths, English and the Sciences.

Our campus community

Our tight-knit community is home to more than 400 students from ECLC to Year 9.

Year 9 is an exciting time for Elsternwick students. Campus leadership positions are available to students in Year 9, and students spend part of one term (8 weeks) living, learning and getting to know their peers from the St Kilda Road and Glen Waverley Campuses at our renowned Clunes residential program.

After Year 9, Elsternwick students continue to Year 10 at their choice of Wesley’s St Kilda Road or Glen Waverley campuses, where they are guaranteed a place. A comprehensive transition program supports Year 9 students in a confident start to Senior School.