WHO WE ARE
Carlisle River Primary School is a small rural school where every learner is understood, supported and challenged to grow. Through strong teaching, flexible pathways and deep community connection, we build confident, resilient learners with big futures.
Outdoor Learning
the Otway Ranges are not just our backdrop — they are part of our curriculum.
Wellbeing
Wellbeing is the foundation of learning. Students thrive when they feel safe, connected and valued.
Learning
Every child is challenged appropriately and supported to achieve personal growth.
Values and Vision
Carlisle River Primary School is a small rural school where every learner is understood, supported and challenged to grow. Through strong teaching, flexible pathways and deep community connection, we build confident, resilient learners with big futures.
Community
We belong, contribute and achieve better together.
Authentic
We are honest, genuine and connected to who we are.
Respect
We show care for ourselves, others, learning and place.
Resilience
We face challenge, practise, reflect and keep growing.
Carlisle River Primary School
About Us
Carlisle River Primary School offers the kind of space where children can learn, play and breathe. Our classrooms are calm and welcoming. Outside, we’re lucky to have open ovals for games and sport, and natural bush areas where students can climb, explore and build confidence through outdoor play. We’re also excited about our upgraded basketball court and our kitchen space, which supports warm lunches and hands-on learning that builds independence and community.
Flexibility for Learning and Families
We understand that families are different, and so are learners. Our flexible, multi-age setting allows for personalised pathways, responsive groupings and learning adjusted to readiness rather than just age level. We work in partnership with families to ensure students feel supported both at school and at home.
Programs
We run a Breakfast Club to support wellbeing and focused learning each morning. The Kitchen Garden Program, students grow, cook and share food—building practical life skills, health knowledge, teamwork and pride in their efforts. Music, Drama, Art, Library, Indonesian, P.E., Science and Technology are all specialist subjects letting students explore their passions and creativity.
We also stay strongly connected with the Polwarth Small Schools network, giving students regular chances to join sports and shared learning days—helping them build friendships and a real sense of belonging beyond our school gates.
Our C.A.R.R Values
At Carlisle River Primary School, our CARR values shape the way we learn, play and care for one another. They help every student feel a strong sense of belonging, understand what positive choices look like, and develop the confidence, responsibility and resilience to grow as learners and community members.
Growing with Gratitude
Our Growing with Gratitude program supports students to recognise strengths, practise appreciation and build emotional awareness. Through regular reflection, discussion and real-life experiences, students develop resilience, empathy and a positive mindset.
Gratitude is not just a theme — it is embedded in how we speak, act and learn together.
Community Engagement
Community is at the heart of Carlisle River Primary School. We make the most of our beautiful location with walks in the Otway Ranges and local learning experiences that help students connect to place, nature and each other. We also regularly travel into Colac to take part in Colac Otway Shire events and community opportunities that broaden students’ experiences and strengthen their confidence beyond our school setting.
Carlisle River Primary School
Events
Any community-based events that are happening at Carlisle River Primary School will be put here.
9:30am to 11:30am
Carlisle River Primary School
Early Explorers Play Group
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01:30pm to 3:30pm
Carlisle River Primary School
Emergency Recovery Support Program
Colac Area Health will be at the school to offer any Emergency Recovery Support you might need. 1:30pm to 3:30pm. More details below.
Need support after the recent fires? We’re here to help.
The Emergency Recovery Support Program (ERSP), delivered by Colac Area Health, offers free, practical support to help you get back on track.
* Work out next steps
* Access financial, legal & government supports
* Get help with forms, calls & follow-ups
We’ll be at Carlisle River School Wednesdays from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.
Come and chat with us — no appointment needed.
Can’t make it at that time? Call us on: 5232 5325, ask for the Emergency Recovery Support Team, leave your number and we will call you back to arrange a time to come and visit you.
David Bennett
Principal
Welcome to Carlisle River Primary School. What I value most about our school is the genuine sense of connection — students, families and staff know one another well, and everyone has an important part to play. We work hard to create a place where children feel safe to be themselves, supported to take on challenges and encouraged to keep going when things are difficult. Our CARR values of Community, Authenticity, Respect and Resilience reflect the kind of people we want our students to become, and I’m proud to lead a school that is focused on strong relationships, meaningful learning and giving every child the opportunity to thrive.
If you would like to learn more about Carlisle River Primary School, please get in touch. I’m always happy to have a chat, answer questions or organise a school tour so you can see our school in action and get a feel for what we can offer your child and family.