Coonara provides a warm, friendly, caring environment where children can feel happy and confident with those around them. We believe that learning happens all the time, not just in class, and we try to make our school a place where it happens positively. The school is non-graded, so the children move through the curriculum at their own rates of development. Work programs are tailored to the needs, interests, and learning styles of each individual child. There is ample opportunity for advancement for learners of high ability, and for remediation where necessary.
Excursions are an essential part of the learning experience, and are held frequently.
Parents are encouraged to participate. One or two family camps are held each year. They form an important part of school and community life by providing an opportunity for adults and children to get to know each other socially as well as in the school setting. Camps are not highly organised and there is plenty of time for swimming, sailboarding, surfing, cycling, walking and reading. When our children move on to secondary school they are frequently praised for their independence and initiative, and their ability to relate to adults.