From the classroom

Clean Up Australia Day

On Friday, 27th February, our students proudly took part in Clean Up Australia Day, helping to care for and protect our local community. It was wonderful to see so many students showing responsibility and pride in keeping Rochester clean.

Our Grade 5/6 students headed to the main bridge and skate park where they found a single thong, they were still looking for the other one when it was time to leave, while Grade 3/4 students cleaned up around the Lions Park. Grade 1/2 students went to the Rochester Tennis Courts, and our Prep students did a fantastic job tidying up around the school grounds and boundary fence.

Students worked collaboratively, demonstrated excellent behaviour in public spaces, and collected a significant amount of rubbish.

A big thank you to our students and staff for helping make a positive difference in our community!

Hands on Learning

It has been a wonderful few weeks of learning, teamwork, and new experiences for students involved in our Hands-On Learning (HoL) programs. Students have enthusiastically participated in activities including the Men’s Shed program and the HoL Café, with even more exciting opportunities just around the corner.

Each Wednesday, six students have proudly represented Rochester Primary School at the Rochester Men’s Shed. We extend our sincere thanks to Steven, Heather, and the generous members of the Men’s Shed for welcoming our students and sharing their skills and knowledge. Students have been busy constructing bird boxes while learning how to safely use tools and equipment — a fantastic opportunity to build confidence, practical skills, and community connections. Over the coming weeks, students will complete their projects at school by sanding and painting their creations.

Meanwhile, students involved in the HoL Café have been developing valuable life skills through hands-on experiences in the kitchen. They have been learning about kitchen safety, food preparation, and safe food-handling practices while working collaboratively to design a menu for an upcoming cake and coffee morning. Preparations are already underway, and students are excited to share their hard work with the school community.

Looking ahead, five lucky students will soon begin the Little Rangers program at Kyabram Fauna Park. Working alongside the Zoo Education team, to complete various activities directed by the zookeepers, students will participate in engaging, hands-on activities that promote learning about animals, conservation, and caring for our environment.

We are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm, teamwork, and positive attitudes our students continue to demonstrate through these enriching Hands-On Learning opportunities.