Junior School 

St Jude's School Tanzania - Gemma Sisia visit

Last year we were delighted to raise close to $12,000 at our annual Kambala Number-a-thon.  Kambala has been contributing to St Jude’s School in Tanzania since 2016 and the total funds raised over these years would be over $100,000.  We see the example of Gemma Sisia as a powerful one for our students and we are delighted that Gemma Sisia and St Jude’s graduate Dr Suleiman will be joining us to share their truly inspirational stories with the students at our Year 3-6 Assembly on Friday 15 March 2024.  

Jacqueline Harvey Writing Workshops

Kambala girls were able to participate in writing workshops conducted by award winning author Jacqueline Harvey, in Week 4. The girls, in Years 3, 4, and 5 joined in with Ms Harvey as she shared her expertise, suggestions, and ideas with our young authors and their teachers. 

 

Under the banner of “Ban the Boring” the girls had a memorable session in sorting their ideas and working with their most amazing and intriguing thoughts towards planning a wonderfully exciting story!

 

Many of the girls are avid fans, and were thrilled to meet the author of their favourite books in person.

 

“We love Jacqueline Harvey, she was amazing! She showed us how to write interesting and fabulous stories.” Sage and Hannah - Year 3.

 

Ms Kimberley Pericles

Junior School Library

 

 

Kevin the Sheep Book Launch

Preparation, Kindergarten and Years 1 & 2 took part in the special launch tour of a brand- new picture book from author Jacqueline Harvey. 

 

Kevin the Sheep is a light-hearted rhyming story, just right for read alouds! Kevin enjoys doing un-sheeplike activities such as kung-fu and playing the drums. The other sheep are not that impressed until Kevin saves the day, and they realise that sometimes doing your own thing is ok.

 

Jacqueline Harvey shared her story about Kevin, and also introduced the girls to her other book characters - Gloria the chicken, That Cat and Willa & Woof. 

 

So many books to read, which one to read next?

 

“Jacqueline Harvey is very kind; she has beautiful books. Kevin the Sheep was funny too!” 

“I liked the part where Kevin’s favourite drink was tea!”

“I want to borrow the Willa and Woof books from the library”.

 

Alyssa, Clara, and Siena - Year 2

 

National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy - NAPLAN - Year 3 and Year 5

The NAPLAN testing window is 13 -25 March 2024. At Kambala, we will hold the tests for Years 3 and 5 on the following dates:

 

Wednesday 13 March- Writing

Friday 15 March- Reading 

Tuesday 19 March- Conventions of Language (spelling, grammar and punctuation)

Wednesday 20 March- Numeracy 

Thursday 21 March- catch up testing for absentees

 

NAPLAN provides an understanding of how individual students are performing at the time of the tests. NAPLAN assesses literacy and numeracy skills that students have already learnt through the school curriculum. Teachers will provide appropriate support and guidance, including ways to become familiar with the format and functionality of the online platform. 

 

Preparation at home is not required and can lead to unnecessary anxiety. The best way you can help your child prepare for NAPLAN is to reassure them that NAPLAN tests are just one part of our school’s learning and assessment program, and to advise them to simply do the best they can on the day.  A good night’s sleep, punctual school arrival and healthy breakfast are the best ways to set the girls up for success. Further information can be found on the NAPLAN website https://www.nap.edu.au/naplan/for-parents-carers 

 

After NAPLAN testing is complete, the Years 3 and 5 girls will enjoy time away at camp.