English, maths, science and history would be defined as the cornerstones of primary education under a schools charter drawn up by principals.
The Australian Primary Principals Association has put forward the charter that would outline primary schools' precise role, amid concern their curriculum has become too cluttered.
The association covers public and private schools across the country.
The charter was developed at a forum in Sydney last month.
The association's president Leonie Trimper said principals felt it was essential to simplify the curriculum by making English, maths, science and history "critical and essential elements" to be taught by primary schools.
Teaching these key subjects would allow children to best develop skills including learning, thinking, communication, self-management and use of technology.
However, these needed to be balanced so children also had the opportunity to take part in music, physical education and other activities.
"These experiences, while not seen as core areas, were viewed by the forum's delegates as having great value in introducing children to many other important areas of life," Ms Trimper said.
"The draft charter suggests programs and interventions, such as bike safety and financial literacy, should only be taught if they don't detract from a school's core business.
"If we are to give our children a proper education foundation in life, the accent must be on core areas that are vital to learning."
The charter defines the purpose of primary school as "ensuring that all children learn, and that they gain a permanent love of learning".
The document will be circulated to schools and parents for comment before being submitted to federal and state governments.
The reality is that this will be about all the schools will be able to cover with their reduced budgets from Cutmeiseter in Chief Kevin The Chop Foley.
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