Teaching and Learning 

Welcome back to Term 2! I hope you had the chance to rest and enjoy some special time with family and friends. The start of a new term always brings a sense of excitement, and it’s a pleasure to see students return with smiling faces, dressed in crisp uniforms and ready to begin each day with enthusiasm. It was wonderful to experience that energy again last week. Term 2 promises a range of engaging experiences and valuable learning opportunities, and I look forward to all that lies ahead.

1st May, Hats Away

Our school proudly supports the SunSmart policy by encouraging all students to wear their hats during outdoor activities. As we approach 1st May, this is a friendly reminder that “Hats Away” begins, meaning hats are no longer required during outdoor play as UV levels decrease. However, in line with SunSmart guidelines, on days when the UV index is forecast to be 3 or above, students will be asked to wear a hat.

This initiative helps students understand the importance of sun safety throughout the year and adjusting habits with the seasons. By following the SunSmart guidelines, we can continue to build healthy, safe practices for everyone.

Karoo Maths Hand signals 

At Karoo PS, we use Maths Hand Signals as a simple and effective tool to support student engagement and communication during Number Talks. These signals allow all students to participate confidently, even if they are not ready to speak aloud. By showing a fist for “I’m thinking,” a thumbs up for “I have an answer and a strategy,” pointing to indicate “I have more than one strategy,” and a shaka sign for “I agree,” students can share their thinking in a safe and inclusive way.

This approach encourages active participation, builds confidence, and promotes a classroom culture where all ideas and strategies are valued. It also helps teachers quickly gauge student understanding and adjust learning accordingly. Maths Hand Signals are a powerful way we support every learner to be involved, thoughtful, and engaged in their mathematical thinking.

Here a few thoughts from our learners around Hand Signals and how they help with their learning. 

Noah 2W

" I like using the hand signals because people don't just have to sit there doing nothing. They're fun to use and Mr. Wilson always asks us in our Daily Review " 

Ethan 5E

" I like using the hand signals because you don't have to put your hand up for something. I just like the idea of them, it's like Auslan. It shows Mr. Edwards what I'm thinking"

Brooklyn 6C

"The hand signals help me not to look at other people's answers and develop my thinking. It helps me concentrate better and let's my teacher know if I've got it or not"

Riaan 4D

" I like the hand signals because instead of calling out you can do it silently and the teacher isn't disturbed but knows what I'm thinking. It helps me because I can stay focused and not get distracted by other people".

I look forward to seeing you all around our amazing school!

Best wishes,

Assistant Principal

Peta Phillips