Faith, Phonics and Foundations: Sunnyside Christian School celebrates third preschool graduation with 44 young learners

Sunnyside Christian School marked a defining moment in its short but fast-growing history last week, as 44 preschoolers graduated in a vibrant ceremony that showcased not only academic readiness but the school’s unwavering commitment to Christian-based education.

Since opening its doors in 2021, Sunnyside has grown rapidly, now enrolling 205 students. Its leadership says this growth is no accident but the result of a deliberate approach built on faith, literacy excellence and strong parental partnership.

School director Frank Goi told parents and guests that Sunnyside’s foundation rests on three key pillars, with Christian education at its core.

“Giving our students the Word of God provides them with strong roots,” he said. “It builds their value system and guides them through life. The Word of God is their compass, their light, their firm foundation as they navigate their journey.”

Goi said this focus on spiritual grounding has been central to the school’s identity and a driving force behind its steady growth and strong community support.

Beyond its Christian focus, Sunnyside has positioned itself as a school serious about early literacy. Goi spoke of the institution’s use of a rigorous phonics program and the Australian literacy curriculum; an approach he believes sets Sunnyside apart from other early-learning centres.

“We take pride in our phonics teaching and the curriculum known for helping young learners encode and decode words correctly,” he said.

“What you witnessed this morning is a remarkable success rate. Our students have demonstrated these skills with confidence.”

During the ceremony, students performed literacy presentations, recited Bible verses and delivered dance performances, showcasing glimpse of a well-rounded learning experience.

Guest speaker Pastor Jack Kipoi used the occasion to urge parents to continue investing in their children’s education, saying that quality learning environments often require greater commitment but produce lasting results.

“Quality education means spending more and placing our children in spaces where they can access a better environment,” he said.

“As a pastor who has followed this school, I can confidently say you’re not making a mistake by choosing Sunnyside. Something great will come out of your children.”

Parents and staff filled the venue with applause as the young graduates received their certificates, where many of them, the first cohort in their families to complete structured early-childhood learning.

The school’s presence at the Port Moresby Nature Park later in the day also saw the unveiling of new school uniforms, a symbolic step that signals Sunnyside’s ambitions for continued growth and strengthened identity.

As the school prepares for a new academic year, its leadership says the mission remains clear: to raise confident, disciplined and well-rounded learners rooted in Christian values and equipped with strong foundational skills.