Year 1 Bulletin Term Highlights
Cooking
One of our favourite experiences was cooking with Karen. Students eagerly participated in hands-on cooking activities, learning how to follow step-by-step instructions, measure ingredients and work safely in a kitchen environment. Throughout the term, students made a range of delicious recipes including lemon slice, zucchini slice and other tasty treats. These sessions provided valuable opportunities to practise teamwork, communication and independence while building confidence in the kitchen.
Some students also had the opportunity to cook traditional Greek Easter biscuits with Connie. This special experience allowed students to learn about a cultural tradition while developing their cooking skills. The biscuits were a great success and even inspired some students to go home and try baking their own.
Gardening
Our gardening sessions with Anna gave students the chance to connect with nature and learn about caring for living things. Students have planted and taken home plants to care for, taking responsibility for watering and monitoring their growth. They enjoyed developing an understanding of what plants need to survive and thrive. These sessions encouraged patience, responsibility and an appreciation for the natural environment.
Gymnastics
Students also enjoyed their gymnastics lessons with Mr L. They developed their balance, coordination, strength and flexibility through a variety of engaging activities and challenges. It has been wonderful to see students build confidence, persevere as they learn new skills, and celebrate their achievements.
URStrong Incursion
Fuzzy and Friends workshop for Friendology, facilitated by Tyson from URSTRONG. Students learnt about important friendship facts and what healthy friendships look and feel like. Through engaging discussions and activities, they explored strategies to help them navigate social situations and build positive relationships with their peers.
Students also developed a deeper understanding of how to recognise and manage “friendship fires” - those moments when conflicts or misunderstandings occur. They practised strategies for working through these challenges in calm and respectful ways, building confidence in how to repair and strengthen friendships.
The workshop supported students to reflect on their own experiences and develop practical tools they can use in everyday playground and classroom situations.
Investigations
Our Investigations have been a particular highlight. Students embraced the role of scientists as they carefully observed animals and recorded their findings through detailed sketches. Using books as a guide, they learnt to draw a variety of animals and their habitats, paying close attention to important features and environmental details. The classroom vet area was another popular learning space, where students practised caring for animals through imaginative play. They also had the opportunity to feed and groom our guinea pigs, learning the importance of being calm, gentle and respectful around animals while considering how we can help animals feel safe and cared for.
As Focus Child, there were many students who were developing their letter-writing skills. They carefully planned and wrote letters for a variety of purposes, learning about the structure and features of a letter. Some students were especially excited to receive replies to their letters, providing a meaningful reason to write and helping them see the power of communication.
Deakin Drama Workshop
Another special highlight this term was a Drama Workshop led by a Deakin University student teacher. Students enthusiastically participated in imaginative games, movement activities and role-play experiences that encouraged creativity, collaboration and self-expression. The workshop was filled with laughter, energy and excitement, and students thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to explore drama in a fun and engaging way.
We are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm, curiosity and growth our students have demonstrated throughout the term. It has been wonderful to see them embrace new experiences, care for one another and develop confidence as learners. We look forward to many more exciting learning opportunities next term.
Kind regards,
Stef and Jarryd
The Year 1 Team
stephanie.lampard@education.vic.gov.au
jarryd.lamb@education.vic.gov.au