Junior School News

JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWS

Our teachers are a dynamic team of passionate educators. Recently we had the opportunity for all of our teachers to share their area of expertise in regard to feedback and student workbook presentation. 

As a staff, we are constantly sharing our ideas to better our practice. 

Here are some highlights from this session… 

• A consistent approach to bookwork presentation across the school including learning intentions 
• High expectations with the presentation of written work and handwriting 
• Using specific written feedback and giving students an opportunity to visit this feedback and reflect on it 
• Student self-reflection using colour-coded editing and checklists 
• Stamps to assist teachers to give feedback in a timely manner 
• Creative templates to assist with learning and the layout of work 
• Visual picture cues to assist students with ideas and support students who may need a visual aid

I was extremely impressed with the high standard across the school. Well done teachers and thank you for sharing your wonderful ideas. 

BUSY MORNINGS 

I am a mother to two daughters and I understand that the mornings can be a very busy time. Last week on Friday I left the house with the following items and it reminded me (in a physical way) of the mental load associated with remembering all of those things to keep our children organised and ready for the day ahead. I had to stop and giggle… 

• bag of dinosaurs (not sure why these were coming) 
• Basketball training bag 
• Cello 
• 2 school bags
• Library bag

Of course, we want to promote independence however we do need to assist our children to develop this independence. All the little things your children can help you with make a big difference. 

I would like to share a couple of things I endeavour to do to try to keep things running smoothly in the morning and the afternoon.

• Anything that can go in the car or in a school bag the night before helps 
• Uniforms set out the night before 
• Ask your child the night before ‘What day is it tomorrow?’ ‘What do you need on a Monday?’ Perhaps have a timetable in their room for them to check
• Morning checklists are fabulous, I use a whiteboard so I can change it if I need
• Music is great in the morning to motivate children, especially on the colder mornings 

AFTERNOON 

• Shoes near the door 
• Lunch boxes and drink bottles in the sink/ dishwasher 

Friday Fun Day incentives are always great, whether it’s a lunch order, a treat in a lunch box or a movie at home. 

I have attached a morning checklist you may like to use. If anyone has any great morning tips/ tricks I would love to share these so please email me. 

Wishing all the mothers and special women a very Happy Mother’s Day. 

To the world you are a mother, to your family you are the world 

Marta Cummings