Our Approach
Shaping learners who inspire the world
We show the way. Our young people make it their own.
What is Inspire?
We take a balanced approach to teaching and learning – blending direct instruction with guided inquiry and providing space for students to explore their interests and pursue their passions. Our expert teachers teach. But sometimes the most powerful learning happens when students grapple with uncertainty, sit with complexity, and construct meaning through deep investigation and discovery. We guide, support, and challenge – but we also give students the space to think for themselves and to question what they know. This mix ensures depth of understanding, confidence in grappling with the unknown, and a genuine love of learning.
At its core, Inspire is about developing character and agency. Learning is not just about acquiring knowledge but becoming someone who contributes thoughtfully and compassionately to the world. Inspire shapes the culture of our school – in classrooms, in conversations, and in the everyday experiences of every student.
Every step of the Westbourne journey is designed to inspire curiosity and build confidence.
Character and agency are developed over time – through experience, engagement with our programs and our expert staff.
Early Learning
Curiosity leads the way
Our youngest learners explore ideas through play, discovery, and meaningful dialogue. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, we see children as capable thinkers and active community members.
Prep to Year 4
A strong foundation
In Junior School, students develop core skills in literacy, numeracy and critical thinking while learning through inquiry and real-world projects. Reflection, documentation, and collaboration make their thinking and learning visible.
Years 5 to 8
Growing in confidence
Middle School learning is developed in partnership with students who learn by doing – solving real-world problems, exploring global issues, whilst engaging in interdisciplinary learning, and developing an understanding of who they are – as people and as learners.
Years 9 to 12
Pathways to the future
Senior students follow tailored academic pathways, including VCE, aligned with their strengths, passions, and goals. Supported by teachers who know them well, they grow as learners and as people, ready for life beyond school.
Wellbeing
We believe wellbeing means more than just feeling good – it means being well in every sense of the word.
From strong relationships and daily check-ins to expert guidance and holistic care, wellbeing is not a separate program – it’s embedded in the culture of learning. Because when students are well, they learn deeply, lead confidently, and feel connected.
Our CARE program nurtures students’ sense of self, belonging and purpose from Prep to Year 12.