Foundation (Reception)

Start big in the little years

Reception at Encounter

At Encounter Lutheran College, we believe the little years are the big years. The beginning of school is not just a milestone — it’s the foundation for a child’s entire learning journey. That’s why our Foundation program is designed to nurture curiosity, spark confidence, and inspire a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

Here, every child is known. Every family feels welcome. And every step is taken together, in a community that feels like home.

Where bright futures begin

Choosing the right start matters. In Foundation at Encounter, your child will experience a rich, engaging curriculum taught by passionate and caring educators. We balance structured learning with time to explore, play, and discover — ensuring students grow not only academically, but also socially and emotionally.

Our small student-to-staff ratios mean your child will be encouraged and supported as an individual, while still feeling part of a bigger story.

Learning that feels different

What makes Encounter unique is the way learning comes alive:

• Low Student-to-Staff Ratios
  Every child is seen, supported and celebrated, with personalised attention that nurtures confidence and growth.
• Bush School
  A research-driven outdoor learning initiative where children connect with nature, build resilience, and develop wellbeing — all while having fun in God’s creation. (learn more)
• Inquiry-Driven Learning
  Open-ended, curiosity-led experiences allow children to apply knowledge to real-life contexts and discover the joy of asking “why?”
• An IB World School - Primary Years Program (PYP)
  As an internationally recognised program, the PYP encourages global thinking, creativity, and problem-solving from the very beginning. (learn more)
• Nurturing Environments
  Calm, inclusive classrooms support not only academic learning, but also emotional wellbeing and social confidence.

At Encounter, learning is not just about subjects and lessons — it’s about belonging, encouragement, and being inspired to thrive.

A place that feels like home

Being part of our Junior School is about more than what you see or do — it’s about how you feel. From the classroom to the playground, excursions to special focus days, children are surrounded by opportunities to grow, to wonder, and to feel a sense of belonging.

With the expansion of our Early Learning Centre into our brand-new Lighthouse Early Learning facility, we’ve also created more space in our Foundation classrooms. That means more children can begin their Encounter journey with us — in bigger, brighter learning spaces designed especially for the early years.