Junior School

Words are like keys. If you choose the right ones, they can open any heart and shut any mouth. – Unknown

Word are like keys is a powerful metaphor that underscores the idea that words have the potential to unlock various doors, both literal and metaphorical. Just as keys open physical locks, words can open doors to understanding, empathy, connection and new perspectives. Choosing the right words can enable effective communication, bridge gaps between individuals and reveal hidden truths. On the other hand, just as a key in the wrong hands can be misused, words can be wielded carelessly or with harmful intent, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts and hurt. This metaphor serves as a reminder of the responsibility we bear in using our words wisely and compassionately, as they hold the power to shape our interactions, relationships, and the world around us. 

In Junior School this year we have introduced Big Write and VCOP. This is not a program but rather a methodology for raising the standards in writing across all ages and ability levels. Based on the premise that if they can’t say it, they can’t write it, we scaffold the learning to allow children to become articulate thinkers and speakers, who will then become articulate writers. Developing strong oral language skills in children is critical for their cognitive, social and academic development. Every day our teachers are working with their students to develop these skills and equipping them with more keys to use in their writing. Here are 10 strategies you can use at home to help foster oral language development in your child. 

1. Talk and Engage: Engage in regular conversations with your child. Ask open-ended questions and show genuine interest int their responses. This encourages them to express themselves more fully.
2. Narrate Activities: Describe daily activities as you go through them. This helps children learn new vocabulary and understand the sequence of events.
3. Read Aloud: Read to your child regularly, regardless of their age. Choose a variety of books that include different types of language such as descriptive, narrative and informational texts.
4. Tell Stories: Encourage your child to tell their own stories. This can be fictional or based on their experiences. Storytelling enhances creative and language skills.
5. Expand Vocabulary: Intentionally introduce new words during conversations and reading. Explain the meaning and encourage them to use these words in their own sentences. 
6. Play Pretend: Engage in pretend play with your child. This encourages them to use their imagination and language to create scenarios. 
7. Ask ‘Wh’ Questions: Ask questions that start with who, what, where, when, and why. These questions require more than simple yes or no answers and encourage detailed responses. 
8. Model Good Language: Use proper grammar, sentence structure and pronunciation when speaking. Children often learn by imitating.
9. Repeat and Clarify: If your child says something unclear or grammatically incorrect, repeat what they said with the correct phrasing. This helps them learn without making them feel corrected. 
10. Encourage Elaboration: When your child says something, encourage them to provide more details. For example, if they mention going to the park, ask them what they did there and who they were with. 

Try these quick and fun Oral Language challenges at home.

Chapel & ROAR Awards

Last week in Chapel, our remarkable Year 6 student leaders took centre stage as they lead a truly inspiring service. Their dedication to fostering a sense of community was evident in every aspect of the service. They organised a game, enthusiastically lead our Junior School in Praise and Worship and then our Captains Mia, Lincoln, Hannah and Stan collaborated to deliver a comprehensive message on the remarkable life of Moses. Through their collective efforts, they illustrated Moses’ journey from his humble beginnings as a baby set adrift on the Nile to his pivotal role as a liberator and leader of the Israelites. 

After the message, the Captains then took great delight awarding the ROAR Award to the following students. Thank you for being ROARsome!

End of School Day Reminder

A reminder to all parents that the end of the school day is 3.30pm. It is important to collect your child as close to this time as possible. If delayed, to avoid causing unnecessary concern to your child, please contact the Administration Office on 9727 9900 to have a message passed on to your child. 

If your child is not collected by 3.55pm, it is our protocol to start making arrangements to escort your child to the Out of School Hours Care program at Oxley Kids. Please note, there is a charge for this service.

Junior School Production – Seussical JR

Our Junior School is a-buzz as our students from Prep to Year 6 prepare for our Junior School Production, Seussical JR. Mark your calendars for these captivating performances on Wednesday 6 and Thursday 7 September. Our talented young performers have been diligently rehearsing to bring you a delightful show that will transport you into the whimsical world of Dr Seuss. Tickets are selling fast and can be purchased from Trybooking. Get in quicky or you will be left disappointed.

The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them. 

Wise words are more valuable than much gold and many rubies. 

Proverbs 20:7 & 15

Amy Liddle

Head of Junior School