Junior School Update
Welcome back to school to all our Junior School students and families. We are looking forward to another action-packed term of learning and fun, including Intensive Swimming, the Senior School’s production of Mamma Mia!, Science Week, Book Week, Father's Day, Chess Club, Let’s Jump Skipping Club and a range of lunchtime enrichment clubs.
Junior School Playground
Last week the JDC students enjoyed their morning snack in our beautiful new outdoor area. Junior students are looking forward to spending more time in this amazing space soon!
Semester 1 Values Awards
Congratulations to those students who received the values awards for Semester 1, 2023:
Respect: Sophia M Year 2
Integrity: Kaitlin D Year 3
Passion: Shanaya J Year 4
Creativity: Alicia N Year 5
Blazer Design Competition Winners
Congratulations to the winning designers of an alternative Shelford school blazer. These lucky students were presented with lolly hampers, donated by SPA:
Avery (Y1)
Macy (Y2)
Meleri (Y6)
Science Talent Search – Innovations: Powering Future Industries
We are excited to report that six Junior School students have submitted entries in this year's competition. Please click on the names to view written submissions and see below for visuals.
Some students will also attend a special Judging Day on Saturday 5 August at various schools around Melbourne. We wish all the participants the very best of luck!
Olivia B
Charlotte C
Image by Sylvie M
Image by Sylvie M
Image by Sylvie M
Image by Sylvie M
Image by Sylvie M
Olivia B
Charlotte C
Image by Sylvie M
Image by Sylvie M
Image by Sylvie M
Image by Sylvie M
Image by Sylvie M
Wellbeing: The Power of Empathy in Building Connections and Relationships
Empathy involves trying to imagine what others are going through, even if we don't feel exactly the same way. It is a vital part of building strong relationships that are based on trust and care, and it is something that can be learned. Some of the key ideas we want our students to learn are detailed here.
- Rather than guesswork, asking questions provides an understanding of what others need. Being empathetic is a bit like being a detective. You have to pay attention and listen when people share their feelings to figure out what's going on inside their hearts.
- Language is important. When we talk about our feelings and thoughts, a whole world of understanding opens up. Being aware of our own feelings helps us get along better with others.
- Sometimes, anxiety can get in the way of empathy. When we feel nervous or rigid, it's hard to show kindness to others. It’s also a fact that people's brains tend to focus on negative stuff. It's a way of solving problems, but it can also make us bond over complaining. It's good to remember that focusing on the positive side of things helps build happier connections.
- Becoming empathetic takes time and practice. By reflecting on our experiences and those of others, we grow our empathy muscles.
- Most importantly, showing kindness to others isn't just good for others, it's good for us too.
Vicky Gemmell
Head of Junior School – Student Wellbeing and Development
Jacqui Sidaway
Head of Junior School – Curriculum and Innovation