Tapping Into Creativity

Finding Our Rhythm! 

Year 4 African Drumming Incursion

On Thursday the 23rd of October, the year 4 students enjoyed an exciting and engaging African Drumming Incursion. The session was led by a talented musician Odai, who introduced students to the vibrant world of West African music and culture.

Each student had their own djembe drum, creating an energetic atmosphere filled with rhythm and teamwork. The musician explained that the djembes are handmade instruments, traditionally carved from a single piece of wood and covered with animal skin. Students were fascinated to learn about how each drum is unique and produces its own special sound.

Alongside the music, students also explored aspects of African geography and culture, connecting perfectly with what they have been learning in their Humanities program. They discovered where the djembe originated and how music plays an important role in community life across many African countries.

The African Drumming Incursion was a truly memorable experience that filled the day with rhythm, learning, and lots of smiles!

Brooke Hyland

Year 4 Classroom Teacher

Creative Writing Workshop with Author Deb Abela

On Wednesday, 22nd October, selected students from Years 3-6 had the exciting opportunity to take part in an online Creative Writing Workshop with celebrated author Deb Abela. 

Deb is known for her popular books including, Max Remy Superspy, Grimsdon, The book of wondrous Possibilities, and her newest release The Kindness Project. Her engaging approach and love of writing inspired students to think creatively and see themselves as young authors. 

Throughout the session, students delved into the art of storytelling, learning how to spark ideas, expand on them creatively, and structure a captivating narrative. 

Deb guided students through the three main ingredients of a story-characters, setting, and problem-and encouraged them to use their own experiences as inspiration for their writing. They also explored how stories work, the different types of narratives, and even experimented with the idea of a verse novel! 

Deb’s creative and enthusiastic teaching style kept everyone captivated. Students interacted eagerly, sharing their stories, ideas, and reflections with both Deb and other participating schools.

Many students walked away feeling truly inspired. One student shared, “I can’t wait to keep writing one of the seven stories I started during the workshop!” 

Another said, “Deb Abela was so engaging and made everything fun. I learned so much about how to make my characters come alive.” Others mentioned how much they enjoyed “sharing our narratives with other schools and hearing their ideas too.”

The workshop left students buzzing with creativity and excitement, ready to continue their journey as imaginative storytellers.

Silsila Amini

Literacy Leader Years 3-6