Grounded in Nature. Learning for Life.

Early Childcare and Primary Education - Pre-Kindy to Grade 6

Our Values

Whole child development

We honour the full development of each child — physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual. Learning at The River School supports children to grow with balance, self-awareness and confidence, recognising that wellbeing and learning are deeply connected.

Care for all life

Guided by Neohumanist principles, we teach children to understand the interconnectedness of all things. We nurture respect and care for humanity, animals, plants and the natural world, fostering a deep sense of responsibility for the wellbeing of the planet and all who share it.

Love in action

We model love, cooperation and ethical decision-making in everyday school life. Children are supported to develop a compassionate heart, a strong moral compass, and the skills and courage to turn care and empathy into meaningful action.

Community, belonging and service

We cultivate a supportive learning community where diversity is welcomed, unity is valued and service to others is encouraged. Through shared responsibility and collaboration, children learn that they belong, that their contributions matter, and that positive change begins within community.

Whole child development

Whole child development

We honour the full development of each child — physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual. Learning at The River School supports children to grow with balance, self-awareness and confidence, recognising that wellbeing and learning are deeply connected.

Care for all life

Care for all life

Guided by Neohumanist principles, we teach children to understand the interconnectedness of all things. We nurture respect and care for humanity, animals, plants and the natural world, fostering a deep sense of responsibility for the wellbeing of the planet and all who share it.

Love in action

Love in action

We model love, cooperation and ethical decision-making in everyday school life. Children are supported to develop a compassionate heart, a strong moral compass, and the skills and courage to turn care and empathy into meaningful action.

Community, belonging and service

Community, belonging and service

We cultivate a supportive learning community where diversity is welcomed, unity is valued and service to others is encouraged. Through shared responsibility and collaboration, children learn that they belong, that their contributions matter, and that positive change begins within community.

Primary School set on 50 Acres in Maleny

The River School is a values-led, independent school located four kilometres from Maleny, set on beautiful acreage of rainforest and creek.

From Pre-Kindy to Year 6, our school offers an alternative to mainstream education for families looking for a learning environment grounded in connection, purpose and care for the whole child. Learning unfolds from creek to classroom, with nature not as a backdrop, but as an active part of daily school life.

Our Approach to Learning

Academic Foundations:

Building strong literacy, numeracy and critical thinking skills.

STEAM Education:

Exploring science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics through practical learning.

Creative Expression:

Encouraging imagination through art, music, theatre and play.

Mindfulness & Wellbeing:

Developing emotional awareness and resilience through yoga and meditation.

Outdoor Learning:

Connecting classroom knowledge with gardening, nature and environmental education.

Passion Projects:

Encouraging curiosity, independent thinking and student-led discovery.
The River School hands
The River School Kingfisher Club

Building Skills for Life

Learning extends beyond the classroom, with opportunities to develop:

Practical Skills:

Growing food, building, creating and problem-solving.

Confidence & Independence:

Through hands-on projects and programmes such as ASDAN.

Social & Emotional Skills:

Building empathy, resilience, cooperation and leadership.

Environmental Responsibility:

Practising sustainability through gardening, recycling and upcycling.

Community Connection:

Learning the value of teamwork, service and contributing to others.