Junior School

Kindergarten celebrates Outdoor Classroom Day

On Tuesday 5 November our Kindergarten students celebrated Outdoor Classroom Day embracing the opportunity to connect with nature and engage in hands on experiential learning. The day began with circle time where we acknowledged the land we are on and shared our hopes and intentions for the day inspired by the natural elements around us. 

The students explored a variety of outdoor activities such as painting with natural pigments, creating transient art with clay faces placed on tree trunks and crafting intricate sand art. They also enjoyed banner making, reading in cozy outdoor cubbies and experimenting with tools at the woodwork tinkering table. Throughout the day the children seemed to experience a deep sense of peace and freedom as they explored the world around them through a fresh lens, engaging in uninterrupted time of discovery and learning. 

Together we celebrated the joy of singing and storytelling further fostering a sense of community and connection with one another and the environment. It was a day that invited reflection, creativity and a deeper understanding of the natural world. 

When asked to describe their highlight of the day the children said: 

"The best thing is sleeping outside". - Agnes 

"I love the sand with Mrs Lim". - Georgia 

"Being outside the whole day was the best".  - Alfie 

"Playing outside and painting was so much fun". - Bastien 

"Playing with sand with my friend from the other class". - Johnny 

"Cooking with the mud kitchen with my friend Johnny".  - Zachary 

"Sand art with my friends".  - Ashley 

Kings Park Naturescape Adventure 

On Wednesday 30 October, our Pre-Primary students had an amazing day out at Kings Park Naturescape! The students enjoyed exploring the natural environment, with some bravely climbing the python structure while others enjoyed splashing around in the water at Paperbark Creek. A big highlight was the session with the Kings Park Education Team, where they shared the story of Quenda the Bandicoot and her bushland friends which developed the students' understanding of Noongar language and culture in such a beautiful way. 

Through the Moorditch Boya story, the students not only learnt some Noongar words for animals but also explored art and storytelling. The students loved creating their own artworks by etching on Kylie (boomerangs), using Aboriginal symbols. The students also engaged in facepainting using a clay-like face paint similar to ochre, adding another layer to the experience and connecting them to the story of Quenda the Bandicoot.

The day was a perfect blend of fun, learning, cultural connection and the students left feeling inspired by all they had seen and done. It was such a special experience for everyone; one that brought nature and culture together.

Year 4 OLP  

Last week the Year 4 students travelled to Moore River (Guilderton) and had the opportunity to sleep under the stars in tents; for some it was their very first time.  

The Outdoor Learning program enabled our students to experience a few nights away from the College enjoyed with their peers and teachers. Emphasising building a sense of community and engaging in nature play by the river offered students opportunities for environmental observation, exploration and discovery. Students engaged in a variety of small group activities designed to foster personal and social development within the group.  

Some of the highlights were fishing, building sand sculptures, and games of mini golf and lawn bowls. Students displayed some capabilities that were crucial on camp - problem solving, resilience, collaboration, which all made a positive difference to themselves and the community. So many great and happy memories were made, and the quiet bus ride home was a clear sign that everyone experienced so much stimulation, learning and fun to reflect on. 

Junior School Music Concert 

The Junior School Music Concert held on Tuesday 5 November was a wonderful celebration of music, showcasing the incredible talent of our students. The concert featured a range of performances, from solo pieces to ensemble collaborations highlighting the creativity within our Music program. Junior School Music teacher Amelia Verlato served as the MC, with support from our dedicated Music staff and tutors. 

Our sincere thanks to the staff and tutors for their ongoing dedication, inspiration and guidance in nurturing our students' musical journeys. A special thank you also goes to our students' parents whose unwavering support and commitment play a vital role in encouraging their children's love for music. Our musicians devote time throughout the year to practise, both at school in weekly sessions and at home. This concert was a beautiful reflection of their hard work and passion.