From the Year Prep Classroom
We can hardly believe we have already been at school for 10 days! The children are settling in beautifully, and we are truly beginning to find our groove. It has been wonderful to see ‘Our Preps’ establishing a consistent routine and confidently following our 3Bs each day.
Our mornings are running smoothly, and it is fabulous to see so many parents encouraging their children to unpack their bags independently and complete their morning jobs before heading outside for a play. This growing independence is such an important part of the transition to school. For those children who are still experiencing a few tears at drop-off, please trust us, it does get easier. Right now, our main focus is building strong relationships and ensuring every child feels safe, secure, and happy in our classroom.
In Religion, we have been learning about who God is and how we can pray at any time, to say thank you, ask for help, or simply talk to Him. We are so proud of the way the children have been meditating quietly for five minutes each Tuesday morning. We have also learned about Shrove Tuesday and why we celebrate with pancakes as we prepare for Lent. Alongside this, we have been talking about our families and the important role they play in our lives. Just like at home, we are also a family at school, where we care for and support one another. We would love for each child to bring in a family photo so we can celebrate and share the special people who mean so much to us.
Our Learning - During our morning literacy block, we have been focusing on syllables and rhyme. The children are becoming more confident each day, and we are excited to say that we can now clap and count how many syllables are in our names! We continue to practise writing our names using correct pencil grip and proper letter formation. This is something you can gently reinforce at home as well.
We are loving our weekly shared reading book, How to Catch a Falling Star and The Very Hungry Bear. The children enjoy discussing the story and identifying important vocabulary. We call these our “WOW Words”. Special words that help grow our understanding and vocabulary. Ask your child if they can remember any of our WOW Words this week!
Our creativity is shining through in our beautiful artwork. Be sure to check out our amazing pieces displayed in the corridor near the library we are very proud of our falling stars!
Hopefully your child came home last Friday full of excitement with their Blue Reading Satchel with their Library Book! We are so proud to begin our take-home reading journey. This is a wonderful opportunity to build confidence and develop a love of reading at home. Please remember that blue satchels with their library book, need to be returned every Friday so we can check in on how your child is progressing and organise new books for the following week. Happy reading!
In Maths, we have been busy counting forwards to 20 and backwards as well. Many of us have even had a go at counting all the way to 100 - what superstars! We are also practising writing our numbers with correct formation to build strong foundations.
We love using Pevan and Sarah as part of our learning at school as it is a fantastic online resource that helps reiterate what we are learning in a fun, engaging and memorable way. No doubt your child has already been singing the songs at home! We are very excited and can’t wait to see them live in Albury at the end of the year.
Student of the Week – Congratulations to our wonderful recipients! Each week, we recognise two students who demonstrate our Mercy values; compassion, respect, courage, hospitality and service and who are trying their very best with their learning. We are so proud of the example they set for our Prep community. Please note, if your child is receiving Student of the Week, we will contact you prior to assembly via email or phone, so you don’t miss the special moment.
Thank you for your continued support as we begin this exciting school journey together. We are so proud of the way the children are settling in and embracing each day with enthusiasm.
Upcoming Events & Reminders
- Assembly on Friday we would love to see you there if you can make it! @2.45pm in the Mercy Centre
- Ensure your child has a hat each day with their drink bottle clearly labelled
- Important dates:
- 24 February – Opening School Mass @MPB
- 25 February - Prep Handy Hints Nights
- 5 March - School Photo Day
Prep Team