Learning Across the 

Junior School

From the Assistant Principal: Head of Junior School

Moving Up Day – Thursday 27 November

As indicated in the calendar we will have our Junior School Moving Up Day on Thursday 27 November.  This is a time when the girls from Reception to Year 6 spend the day with their new teacher and peers for 2026.

Transitioning into a new year level is an exciting time, offering fresh opportunities for growth, new friendships, and deep learning. While change can bring a mix of emotions, parents and caregivers play a vital role in shaping how their daughters view transition. When young people see the adults focusing on the opportunities ahead, and showing enthusiasm for what is to come, they are likely to approach their new year level with the same mindset. A positive outlook helps them build a readiness to embrace the year ahead.

Our teachers also engage in a thorough handover process to ensure every child is known, understood, and well supported. Together, we can help our students take this next step with optimism and assurance, ready to make the most of the exciting opportunities that await them in 2026. 

6 ways to support children settle into a new class | Academy

Further communication regarding this day will be sent out next week.

Year 3 Strings & Year 5 Band Evening 

It was a joy to see the Year 3 and Year 5 girls showcase their talents in the St Anne’s Performing Arts Centre on Tuesday evening. It’s remarkable to think that these students have only been playing their instruments for a short period of time. Their professionalism and dedication were truly commendable and a credit to them all. I wish to thank the music department staff for their hard work in putting on such as enjoyable evening. 

Reminder of upcoming events

Our Preschool to Year 2 students, along with our Year 6 Junior School Leaders, are looking forward to participating in the Norwood Christmas Pageant this Saturday, 22 November. We hope to see many familiar faces along the parade cheering them on.   

We also warmly invite all Preschool and Junior School families to our Christmas Picnic and Concert on Friday 28 November on the Acacias Lawns in the Senior School. The picnic will begin at 5.00pm, followed by Christmas Carols performed by students from Preschool to Year 6 at 5.30pm. The evening will conclude at approximately 7.00pm. 

Lisa Sexton

Assistant Principal: Head of Junior School

Nearing the End of Term 4

As we approach the end of Term 4, Year 3 has been buzzing with energy, learning and lots of reflection. It’s hard to believe how quickly the year has flown by, and the students have continued to show curiosity, kindness and enthusiasm right to the very end.

Over the past few weeks, we have been immersed in our final class novels for the year: The Secret Garden and Brindabella. Students have loved exploring the characters, settings, and themes in these rich stories, making thoughtful connections, and engaging in meaningful discussions. It has been wonderful to see their confidence as readers continue to grow.

We have also been very busy preparing for our upcoming Christmas Concert. The excitement is building as students practise their songs and movements, working collaboratively to bring the performance to life. Their dedication and joy shine through every rehearsal, and we can’t wait to share the final result with you.

As the year draws to a close, we’ve spent time reflecting on the people we are through our MITIOG learning, but also who has made a positive difference to us. Our friends, teachers, classmates, and family members have supported and inspired us throughout the year. These moments of gratitude have sparked thoughtful conversations and reminded us of the power of kindness and connection.

Finally, we have begun thinking ahead to next year; what we are looking forward to, what challenges we’re ready to take on and what excites us most about stepping into Year 4. The students have shared hopes ranging from new learning goals to deepening friendships, and it has been heartwarming to hear their optimism and confidence.

We are so proud of everything Year 3 has achieved this year. As we enter the final weeks of term, we look forward to celebrating together and finishing the year on a joyful and memorable note.

Zahra Morrish and Hattie Ziesing

Year 3 Teachers

Year 4 Students Publish Informative Texts on Flora and Fauna

This term, our Year 4 students are undertaking an exciting writing project, authoring their own non-fiction books on topics related to flora and fauna. Building on their earlier experiences with information texts, students are now engaging in a more complex and independent research and writing process.

Throughout the year, they have refined their research and inquiry skills, with a strong focus on identifying and using valid and reliable sources. Students are applying these skills to gather accurate information, which they then paraphrase and synthesise to communicate clearly in their own words.

Their work demonstrates an understanding of the conventions and features of non-fiction texts, including structured headings, subheadings, labelled diagrams, glossaries, and captions. They are also learning to make thoughtful design choices to enhance readability and engagement for their audience. Importantly, students are selecting copyright-free images to complement their writing, reinforcing the importance of ethical and responsible publishing practices.

This unit has provided students with the opportunity to explore topics they are passionate about, from intricate ecosystems to remarkable animal adaptations, while developing higher-level literacy and research capabilities. We are incredibly proud of the maturity, curiosity, and effort they have shown in producing informative and visually engaging books that reflect their growth as capable and independent learners.

Catherine Boots

R‑6 Teacher