Learning & Teaching

 Chess Program

Our students started Chess this week and had a fantastic time exploring the game. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm and curiosity as they began learning new strategies and skills.

District Cross Country

On Tuesday 6th May, OLA had 46 students represent our school with pride at the District Cross Country Carnival. Most races had over 60 students in each event and 9 of our amazing students placed in the top ten, therefore qualifying to represent the District at the Division level on May 28. We congratulate these students on their success and we wish them all the best of luck at this event.

Melbourne Zoo

On Tuesday 13 May our Grade 5/6 students went on an excursion to Werribee Open Range Zoo. This excursion complements the Inquiry topic for the term which is Adapt, Survive & Thrive. Students have been learning about animals and the physical and behavioural adaptations they make to help their survival.

We had delightful weather for our visit to the zoo and attended an animal adaptations workshop, rode the safari bus around the savannah and explored the many trails observing the amazing animals on our wanders. Students were very excited to see lions, monkeys, camels, wild dogs, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, zebras, ostriches, antelopes, elephants and more in their habitats. We thank all our parent helpers for attending and making the day a success.

Melbourne Writers Festival

Last week, a group of students spent a fantastic day in the city attending the Melbourne Writers Festival, where students had the incredible opportunity to explore storytelling, creativity, and self expression alongside some of Australia’s most inspiring authors. 

Throughout the day, students engaged in  sessions with Nat Amoore, Reece Carter, Nabeel Khan, and Jess Sanders—each sharing powerful insights into the writing process, where ideas come from, and how stories can change the way we see the world. From humour and adventure to identity and resilience, the themes explored sparked rich discussion and lit creative sparks in our young writers.

It was a truly memorable experience that nurtured a deeper appreciation for literature and the art of storytelling. We can’t wait to see how this inspiration flows into students’ own writing!

OLA PRODUCTION 'THE SOUND OF MUSICALS'

Imagine a world where musicals didn't exist. No 'Sound of Music' or 'Wizard of Oz' or 'Wicked' - it's hard to imagine! This is the world of our new OLA show, coming in December. A number of brilliant composers come to a producer to 'pitch' their ideas for 'new' musicals they have written. They ask the producer to 'picture the scene' as the curtains open on to reveal a scene and songs from some of our best loved musicals. 

We will be performing highlights from the following shows - so why not take the opportunity over the next few months to watch them with your children? 

Singing in the Rain, The Sound of Music, Wizard of Oz, Lion King, Oliver, School of Rock and High School Musical.

Request for Help

December 9 seems like a long way off, but as we know time goes fast these days! We had a wonderful group of parents who helped with costumes and props for our 2023 show 'Mission H20' and we would love some help again this year. If you are prepared to assist, please email me at pogorman@olacheltenham.catholic.edu.au

Stay tuned for more to come and in the meantime, enjoy some musicals or even live stage shows with your children. 

Trish O'Gorman

Performing Arts Teacher

Josy Reeder

Learning & Teaching Leader