Ballarat Grammar

Ballarat Grammar uses the Australian Curriculum together with the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) in the Junior School. The learning framework is organized around a Program of Inquiry with Units of Inquiry that guide teaching and learning and foster international-mindedness. Enrichment opportunities are available in a variety of forms, including externally-based competitions and challenges, and there is an emphasis on individual and group mathematical inquiries. Transferable 21st‑century skills are developed through inquiry, collaboration and critical thinking.

Dance and Drama are integral to the Junior School Arts program, with specialist spaces for both disciplines. Music education spans from classroom lessons to instrumental study, singing and ensemble participation, with Year 2 string tuition and opportunities to join choirs and bands. Co-curricular choirs and ensembles include Earlybirds Choir (Prep-3), Year 5/6 Choir, Bright Sparks, Viva Voce, Junior Strings, Middle Strings, Bangers 'n Smash, Training Band and Guitar Ensemble. An annual Junior School Art Exhibition is held in the Beckworth Centre for the Arts.

Languages offered include Mandarin Chinese, French and Latin; Junior School students receive French instruction from Prep, with formal French classes continuing in the Middle School. There is a French language exchange program with the James Cook International School in Noumea for some students. The Round Square program also supports regular international language and history tours.

Off-campus learning is a feature of the Junior School through a Camps program starting in Year 2, with a range of coastal, bush and regional experiences. The Round Square ethos underpins outdoor education, cross‑age learning and collaborative activities during these camps. These experiences foster teamwork, resilience and social connection among students.

Service learning is a core focus across Ballarat Grammar, with a Service Committee working closely with the Round Square program to promote service across the School. Students participate in local and global community projects and volunteer activities, with dedicated opportunities for each key stage (Junior School action in service; Years 7–9 Experience Service; Years 10–12 Service is Leadership). Partnerships with external organisations support meaningful community impact.

A student-led Round Square Committee (Years 7–12) provides opportunities to engage in service, adventure and fundraising, emphasizing leadership as action and teamwork. The program connects students with a network of like-minded schools and international conferences, expanding leadership experiences beyond the classroom.

Wellbeing is built into the curriculum through a Positive Education Program and House Mentoring System, with aims to develop optimism, connectedness, gratitude and perseverance. The School offers chapel services, on-site health support and counselling, and a dedicated Health Centre with qualified nurses and psychologists. There are eight Day Houses and five Boarding Houses, with weekly House meetings that foster mentoring, leadership and community belonging.