Learning Across the 

Junior School

From the Assistant Principal: Head of Junior School

Debating News 

Participating in debating fosters essential skills such as critical thinking, speech organisation, communication, and vocal impact—lifelong abilities that many adults still strive to master. This past semester, our Year 5 and Year 6 students impressed us with five engaging debates. We are incredibly proud of all our teams for their dedication and enthusiasm. Special thanks to our wonderful coaches—Tennille Cobb, Amanda Smith, Carolyne Carey, Natalie Borrillo, Georgia Eliadas, and Year 11 students Karli and Emily—who provided invaluable support, encouraging these girls to take risks and participate in this enriching co-curricular activity.

 

On Tuesday evening, one of our Year 6 debating teams—Rosie, Estelle, Minny, and Kalani—competed in the semi-finals. With three adjudicators observing, the girls confidently explained why zoos should not be banned,  delivering strong rebuttals. Their impressive performance secured a win, advancing them to the grand final, which will be held early next term. Reaching this stage is a significant achievement, and we wish them the very best of luck. Well done, girls!

 

Year 6 Canberra trip

Recently, our Year 6 students embarked on an educational tour of the national capital, engaging in a variety of programs centred around Australia’s history, culture, heritage, and democracy. The Australian Government, through the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) program, supported this vital learning experience by contributing $90 per student to help offset the overall costs. We are grateful for this support and look forward to continuing the program in the future.

 

Junior School Freedom Café Launch 

We are excited to announce the opening of the Junior School Freedom Café. This week, our Year 5 students had the opportunity to trial the new system for over-the-counter purchases. Starting in Term 4, the café will open to the entire Junior School community from Wednesday to Friday during lunchtime. 

 

To facilitate purchases, all students from Reception to Year 5 will receive a Loreto wristband, while Year 6 students will be issued a fob, which they will continue to use in Senior School starting in 2025. Parents can load funds via the Flexi Schools app, enabling students to make cashless transactions and aligning with the senior school’s cashless system. This also allows parents to monitor their daughter’s purchases. 

Please note that for now, the café will offer a limited selection of items for over-the-counter purchases, with recess and lunch orders continuing through the Flexi Schools system. Our Year 5 students have certainly enjoyed the café being open this week!

I hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved break and look forward to seeing all the girls return refreshed and ready for an exciting final term of 2024.

Lisa Sexton

Assistant Principal – Head of Junior School

 

Our Year 4 student, Colette Cheng, won a prize in the Adelaide Show competition for her amazing work in the Australian Bird, Flower or Reptile category! Well done, Colette – we are so proud of your creativity and talent!