Specialist's Update
Auslan
Drama
Music
Preps
This term, Prep students explored a variety of percussion instruments, including rhythm sticks, djembe drums, and other classroom instruments. They learned how to play each instrument, keeping a steady beat, and listen carefully to the sounds they can create.
Students reflected on their prior learning about beat, tempo, and sound, and used this knowledge to experiment with different ways of playing their instruments. They worked together to create their own simple musical patterns and short class compositions, showing growing confidence in performing and taking turns. Through these activities, students developed their listening skills, teamwork, and understanding of how musicians use sounds to communicate ideas.
Grade 1 & 2
Our grade 1 and 2 students explored a wide range of percussion instruments, including rhythm sticks, djembe drums, and pitched instruments such as glockenspiels and xylophones. They built on their prior learning about beat, rhythm, pitch, and dynamics, and applied these skills when experimenting with different instrument techniques.
Students practised key techniques such as playing simple rhythmic and melodic patterns, listening carefully to the sounds of each instrument, and learned how pitch can move higher and lower. Working individually and in groups, they used their developing musical knowledge to compose and perform short musical pieces.
Grade 3 & 4
Students in Grades 3 and 4 focused on developing their skills on pitched instruments, with a particular emphasis on the ukulele. They built on their prior learning about rhythm, pitch, chords, and song structure, and applied this knowledge as they learned basic chords, strumming patterns, and playing techniques.
Students explored how melodies and chords work together and used this understanding to create simple musical pieces on the ukulele. Working independently and in small groups, they practised transitioning between chords, keeping a steady beat, and performing with accuracy and confidence. Through this unit, students strengthened their creativity, instrumental skills, collaboration, and overall musical understanding.
Grade 5 & 6
This term, students in Grades 5 and 6 expanded their skills on pitched instruments by learning to play the acoustic guitar. Building on their prior understanding of rhythm, pitch, chords, and song structure, they learned basic chord shapes, strumming patterns, and how to transition smoothly between chords.
Students applied this knowledge to create their own musical pieces, using iPads and GarageBand to record, layer, and arrange their ideas. They explored how different instruments, effects, and digital tools can enhance a composition, and worked collaboratively to produce polished musical projects. Throughout this unit, students strengthened their instrumental technique, creativity, digital music skills, and confidence as independent musicians.
P.E.
PE at a glance – Weeks 6-11
As we reach the end of another busy and rewarding year in Physical Education, we are proud to reflect on the growth, effort, and enthusiasm our students have shown throughout the term. This term, our classes embraced a mix of familiar favourites and exciting new sports, giving students the chance to build skills, challenge themselves, and discover new passions.
Prep to Grade 3 Swimming Program
This term, our Preps, 1s, 2s and 3s participated in our 5-day swimming program at Casey Race. Through this program, students strengthened their confidence and abilities in and around the water, learning essential water safety skills they will use in life.
Congratulations Haley!
Congratulations to Haley Greenwood, who trialled for and successfully earned a place on the Team Vic Softball 12 Years and Under Girls team, representing Sporting Schools Victoria at the School Sport Australia Championships held at Blacktown International Sports Park, Rooty Hill, NSW, from 16–21 November 2025. Haley was an integral member of the Victorian side, contributing strongly to the team’s outstanding 2nd place finish at the championships.
We hope you had an amazing experience and can't wait to hear what comes next as you continue your softball journey. On behalf of all the teachers and students at CGPS, congratulations on this incredible achievement, we are all so proud of you, Haley!
Fenech Foxes vs Rundle Rovers
Looking ahead, our Grade 6 students have an especially exciting finish to their primary school PE journey, with our upcoming soccer competition between the Fenech Foxes and the Rundle Rovers on the 12th of December. Will it be Mr Fenech or Mr Rundle who will claim the ultimate bragging rights?
Student vs Teacher Games
The always-popular Students vs Teachers games are also approaching, taking place on the 17th of December in our final week of term. We’ll see if the Grade 6 students can take on the almighty teachers in a friendly game of dodgeball! This event is sure to bring the whole school together, and we look forward to celebrating our Grade 6s and the leaders they have grown to be.
We thank all students for their positive attitudes and continued efforts, and we look forward to ending the year on an energetic and joyful note.
Art
Well the year is wrapping up and things should be slowing down as the end of the year is in sight.
However, this isn’t the case in the art room. We are moving!
That’s right, the whole art room is relocating to what was the old STEM room, this year a grade 1 classroom. This is an exciting time and I can’t wait for 2026.
Another big project for 2026 will be the Art Show. It is due to feature in the second half of the year. Many parents will be wondering where their child/children’s art work has disappeared to. I am keeping it safe and will be returning it after this major event. Hopefully you will be surprised by the talent and creativity of your kids.
Lots to look forward to. I sincerely hope everyone has a safe and happy Christmas break. Look forward to seeing you in 2026.
Monica Curnow
(Visual Arts)