A Spotlight on Learning 

A Spotlight on Learning in the JLC on Heights Campus

The JLC has had a fantastic start to Term 2! Students returned from their holidays full of energy and excitement, eager to reconnect with friends and share stories of their adventures. We were fortunate to begin the new term with a traditional Smoking Ceremony. This ritual involves burning native plants to produce cleansing smoke, offering each individual the chance to purify their body and spirit in preparation for the learning journey ahead.

In Reading, our focus has shifted to the concept of retell, an important skill that helps students recount the stories they read, with attention to the beginning, middle and end. Retelling stories is crucial for enhancing reading comprehension, strengthening oral language skills and improving vocabulary.  This understanding has flowed into our Writing lessons, where students have started crafting their own narrative texts. They're using their retell skills to build imaginative and well-structured stories that showcase their unique creativity. Editing skills will also be revised.

In Mathematics, students have been developing their understanding of renaming, learning the different ways numbers can be represented. This is a fundamental math skill that strengthens place value understanding, supports mental math and prepares for regrouping in addition and subtraction. Hands-on materials, such as MAB blocks, have supported this learning by providing concrete examples and reinforcing key concepts. 

Our Projects lessons have focused on the significance of ANZAC Day. Students learned about the importance of remembrance and the bravery of those who served. They used meaningful vocabulary like bravery, resilience and kindness while creating their own symbolic versions of an ANZAC medal.

In SEL (Social and Emotional Learning), we’ve been exploring coping strategies, equipping students with tools and techniques to help them navigate emotionally challenging situations with confidence and resilience. 

We’re incredibly proud of the enthusiastic and thoughtful start to the term and can’t wait to see all the wonderful learning and growth that the rest of Term 2 will bring!

Ms Emma O' Bryan

Learning Centre Leader

(Heights Campus)