Curriculum
Gareth Snow | Assistant Principal
Celebrating Term 3 Learning & Keeping the Momentum Over the Holidays
As Term 3 comes to a close, we want to congratulate all our students on the incredible learning they’ve achieved. From developing new skills in reading and writing to building confidence in maths, inquiry, and the arts, it’s been a term full of growth and success. The dedication and enthusiasm shown by our students, staff, and families is something to be very proud of.
Why Holiday Learning Matters
Research shows that when children take long breaks from learning, they can experience what’s often called the “summer slide” or learning loss. Studies from the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) and international research from the National Summer Learning Association (NSLA, USA) highlight that:
- Students can lose up to two months of progress in key areas like reading and maths over long breaks if learning routines stop altogether.
- Consistent engagement with learning activities—even in small ways—helps children return to school confident and ready to build on what they know.
Families who support learning at home during breaks make a significant contribution to long-term student success.
Maintaining learning doesn’t mean “doing schoolwork” every day, but rather keeping skills active in fun, meaningful ways.
What You Can Do at Home
Here are some simple, effective ways to help your child stay connected with learning over the holidays:
- Read Every Day: Visit the local library, read bedtime stories, or let your child choose books, comics, or magazines they enjoy.
- Real-Life Maths: Get children involved in cooking (measuring ingredients), shopping (adding up costs), or travel (estimating time and distance).
- Writing for Purpose: Encourage holiday journaling, writing postcards, or even making “to-do” and shopping lists.
- Hands-On Inquiry: Explore the outdoors, visit museums or parks, and let your child ask questions, investigate, and share what they discover.
Creative Play: Encourage building, drawing, music, and imaginative games to develop problem-solving and creativity.
By keeping learning alive in enjoyable ways, you help ensure your child continues their growth and returns in Term 4 ready to thrive.
✅ Parent Holiday Learning Checklist
- 📚 Read together every day
- ➕ Use maths in cooking, shopping, and travel
- ✍️ Write postcards, lists, or a holiday journal
- 🌱 Explore outdoors and ask “why” questions
- 🎨 Encourage building, creating, and imaginative play
We are so proud of the progress every student has made this term—thank you for your support and partnership in their learning journey. Wishing all families a safe, restful, and enriching holiday break!
Mr Snow