Private Primary School: Pre-Primary to Year 2 at MLC Perth

Pre-Primary to Year 2

Where Curiosity Begins and Confidence Grows

 

At Methodist Ladies’ College, learning starts strong. From Pre-Primary to Year 2, we lay the foundations for a lifetime of thinking, questioning and creating. Through a structured yet responsive program, our youngest students are nurtured as capable learners, empowered to take agency in their learning while being supported by expert educators and a deeply connected school community.

 

Early Primary Learning at a Glance

MLC’s Pre-Primary to Year 2 curriculum combines structured literacy and numeracy learning with inquiry, creativity, wellbeing and play-based exploration. Girls are supported by experienced educators as they develop independence, social confidence and a love of learning.

Key Learning Focus Areas

• Early literacy, reading, writing and communication
• Numeracy foundations and mathematical thinking
• Inquiry-based learning and creative exploration
• Social-emotional development, friendships and belonging
• Confidence, independence and positive learning habits

Intentional Learning in the Classroom

MLC’s early primary school program in Claremont, Perth combines explicit teaching with integrated, inquiry-based learning to build strong literacy, numeracy, confidence and curiosity from the beginning of school. Our Pre-Primary, Year 1 and Year 2 students benefit from a research-backed, evidence-informed approach, with literacy and numeracy prioritised each morning through explicit instruction, and afternoons dedicated to developing student agency through rich, connected learning experiences.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Wellbeing & Belonging

Wellbeing is woven into every part of the day in our Pre-Primary to Year 2 classrooms. Our youngest students are supported to feel safe, valued and confident as they begin their school journey through: 

• Buddy Programs: Connecting students across year levels to help build connections and allow our younger girls to feel part of a bigger community.
• House System: Every student is assigned a House in Pre-Primary and joins regular House meetings and activities.
•Psychological Support: Our dedicated Junior Years Psychologist is available to support both students and families as needed, providing an added layer of expertise. 

Wellbeing support at MLC helps girls build positive friendships, emotional awareness and the confidence to ask for help. MLC also works closely with families to support each child’s wellbeing, learning and transition into school.

The MLC Difference

Pre-Primary, Year 1 and Year 2 students at MLC don’t just go to school—they become part of a thriving, connected community. As the youngest members of our one-campus College, they benefit from both a nurturing early years environment and access to the broader experiences, traditions and facilities of the whole school: 

• Participate in whole-school assemblies and services, building confidence and cross-year connections.
• Enjoy access to exceptional facilities including the Library, performance spaces, MLC/CCGS Aquatic Precinct, sporting grounds and playgrounds, all within walking distance of their classrooms. 
• They take part in annual highlights like the Nativity Play, Grandparents’ Day, Mother’s Day, the Father’s Day Social and Barclay Picnic. 

This early access to shared spaces and experiences fosters a strong sense of belonging and identity, helping our students feel seen, valued and connected — now and for years to come. 

Support Every Step of the Way

From transition to intervention, we are by their side: 

• Orientation & Community Welcome: Kindergarten students spend a day in Pre-Primary to meet peers and experience Junior Years life. Families are also invited to attend a Community Welcome Morning to explore campus and prepare for a confident start.
• In-class intervention programs: We offer two targeted support programs—Bond Blocks (10 minutes a day to consolidate number facts) and MiniLIT (small-group early literacy support delivered by the same team as InitiaLIT). Both are run within the classroom environment, ensuring students receive the help they need without being withdrawn from learning or peers.
 Collaborative support system: Classroom teachers are supported by a dedicated Junior Years Leadership Team consisting of the Pre-Primary–Year 2 Leader, Head of Junior Years and Deputy Principal ELC-Year 6. This ensures expert guidance across both curriculum and pastoral care.
• Out of School Hours Care (OSHC): Our on-campus OSHC program offers before- and after-school supervision with fun, engaging activities designed to support wellbeing and social connection in a safe environment. 

Families can also explore MLC’s Early Learning Centre before children begin Pre-Primary, or learn about the next stage through the Years 3 and 4 program.

Frequently Asked Questions

FIND OUT ABOUT THE MLC JUNIOR YEARS

Learn more about MLC’s early primary school program for girls in Pre-Primary to Year 2. Complete the form below and our Admissions team will be in touch to answer your questions and help you book a Junior Years tour.