Junior School
The start of Term 2 has been a whirlwind of excitement and activities here in the Junior School. From our engaging IGNITE Enrichment and Extension sessions to the splash-tastic Year 3 to 6 Swimming Lessons, we’ve been diving headfirst into learning and fun. Many members of the Oxley community commemorated the ANZAC Dawn Service with solemnity and respect. In between capturing smiles at our school photos and exploring the historical wonders of Sovereign Hill during the Year 5 and 6 camp, we managed to squeeze in our annual Cross Country run with a sausage sizzle. Our doors were wide open for Open Day, showcasing the vibrancy of our school community. Year 3 and 4 had an unforgettable excursion to the iconic MCG, while e-Safety incursions empowered our students with digital awareness. And let’s not forget our purchasing of special treats at the Mother’s Day Stall run by the Year 11 students in Senior School. All this and more have been packed into the first three weeks of term!
IGNITE Enrichment and Extension sessions
If you had been walking past the Junior School early in Week 1, you might just have heard the bonks and binks of a swamp full of one-toed, two-toed and three-toed toads. But of course, it wasn't a knot of toads (yes that's the collective noun). It was Mr Dickson back again to treat our students to another unique and entertaining lesson ... this time about some Dr Seuss Maths! Later that week he took groups of our high-ability numeracy students and utilised Dijkstra's Algorithm in working out paths between the swampy Tum trees in order to maximise (or minimise) the number of bugs each toed-type toad could eat ... bonk, bink, binkbonk, binkbink, binkbonkbonk, binkbonkbink, binkbinkbink ... If this makes no sense to you, just ask a Junior School student to translate!
House Cross Country
Our House Cross Country event was held on Wednesday 24 April. Despite the soggy weather, students from Prep–Year 6 ran the course with a get-up-and-go attitude, encouraged by the cheers of peers and parents. After their race, many students enjoyed a delicious warm sausage in bread, raising funds for Amari, a Community Development Program in Uganda (www.amari.org.au). Approximately $575 was raised on the day. Thank you also to the parent volunteers who assisted with the BBQ.
Year 5 & 6 Camp
The Year 5 and 6 Camp to Sovereign Hill was an unforgettable adventure for our students, immersing them in the rich history of the gold rush era. Stepping back in time, they experienced a taste of school life in the 1850s, complete with lessons in the old schoolhouses and the opportunity to dress in period costumes. Many students enjoyed visiting the gold mine, where they delved deep into the tunnels, learning about the hardships and triumphs of gold mining. Panning for gold was a hands-on experience that brought history to life, as students eagerly sifted through mud and water in search of golden treasures. Witnessing the mesmerising gold pour and seeing a gold bar valued at around $350k was an experience to be had! The learning experiences and time spent building relationships within their cohort is something our Year 5 and 6 students will never forget. Thank you to the team of dedicated staff for planning and running the incredible experience for our students.
As has been previously mentioned, our Raising Kids in A Digital World parent information session will be held on Wednesday 22 May at 7:00pm here in the BPAC. Parents are encouraged to register and attend to hear our highly qualified and experienced presenters explore some important issues relating to e-safety. Due to the nature of the topics being discussed, this is a parent/carer only event, and we ask that you make alternative arrangements for your children as they are not permitted to attend this event. If you haven’t already done so, I would encourage you to register for this event now by clicking on this image and completing your details.
Dates to Remember
Parents, we would like to take the opportunity to remind you that all Junior School students will not be expected at school on the following days:
- Report Writing Day – Friday 7 June
- King's Birthday Holiday – Monday 10 June
As we approach Mother’s Day this Sunday, we extend a heartfelt tribute to all the incredible mothers in our Junior School community. Your love, dedication and nurturing spirit and the foundation of our children’s lives, shaping them into the remarkable individuals they are becoming. On this special day, we honour your sacrifices, celebrate your strength and express our deepest gratitude for everything you do.
One example that embodies the love of a mother comes from the Bible in the book Proverbs 31:25-26 which reads,
She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.
This passage beautifully captures the essence of a mother’s love – her unwavering strength, her wisdom and her gentle guidance. We see these qualities reflected in countless acts of love and devotion that our mothers show every day. From comforting a child’s fears to cheering them on in their achievements, to making school lunches day after day or providing a warm embrace in a time of need. To all the mothers in our Junior School community and beyond, we wish you a Happy Mother’s Day filled with love, joy and cherished moments with your loved ones. You are truly appreciated and loved more than words can express.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Amy Liddle
Head of Junior School