Stage 3 News

Year 5

This term, our Year 5 students enjoyed an unforgettable experience during their overnight stay at Taronga Zoo. The camp offered students a rare opportunity to explore the zoo after hours, participate in conservation-focused activities, and observe animal behaviour in ways that connected directly to our Science unit on animal adaptations.

Students were able to see a range of animals up close, observe their behaviours, and gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of adaptations that help them thrive in their environments. From the adorable red pandas hiding in the trees to the inquisitive chimpanzees and towering giraffes nibbling leaves high above, students were amazed by the incredible diversity of animals they saw up close. Year 5 also spent time exploring Taronga’s conservation efforts and learning about the important work being done to protect different animal species. They attended keeper talks and watched presentations that explained how the zoo protects endangered species and supports breeding and rescue programs. Students were thrilled by the exciting seal show, with seals performing impressive tricks and dives, and the Free Flight Birds presentation, where cockatoos, condors, and other birds wowed the crowd with their aerial skills.

The camp also included opportunities to meet and interact with some of the zoo’s ambassador animals, making the learning experience hands-on and memorable. The overnight stay added an extra layer of excitement and curiosity. While enjoying the adventure of sleeping in tents, students got to experience the zoo at night and catch glimpses of wandering bandicoots and brushtailed possums.

Beyond the learning, the camp offered wonderful opportunities for teamwork, confidence-building, and creating memories they will carry with them for years to come. We are so proud of how our Year 5 students represented our school and embraced every moment!

Year 6

Last week, the students attending the Year 6 Camp at Narrabeen, Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation, participated in a diverse range of activities that provided valuable opportunities for their overall development. These activities were carefully designed to help the students enhance and develop their gross motor skills, which are essential for physical coordination and movement.

Through engaging in outdoor and team-based challenges, the students improved their physical coordination by navigating obstacle courses, participating in team sports, and practising balance and agility exercises. These experiences not only strengthened their bodies but also helped them gain confidence in their physical abilities.

In addition to physical development, the camp activities fostered important social and cognitive skills. Students practised effective communication by working in teams, sharing ideas, and supporting one another during group tasks. This environment encouraged collaboration and helped build strong friendships, as students learned to trust and cooperate with their peers.

The camp also promoted critical thinking skills by presenting students with problem-solving scenarios and challenges that required careful planning, decision-making, and adaptability. These experiences nurtured their ability to think creatively and approach tasks with a strategic mindset.

Overall, the Year 6 Camp at Narrabeen offered a holistic learning experience that combined physical activity with social interaction and cognitive growth, equipping the students with skills that will assist them in their ongoing development both inside and outside the classroom.

Year 6 Teachers.

We had a lot of fun at the Year 6 Camp up at Narrabeen, Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation. There were many activities and delicious food to gorge ourselves on. We enjoyed many activities such as stand up paddle boarding, abseiling, and archery tag.

Aaron 6S OC