Learning at St Columba's

Sweet Spot

Sweet Spot is a fundamental part of who we are at St Columba’s and an essential start to each school day. With student wellbeing at its heart, Sweet Spot provides a soft start that supports calm, connection and readiness for learning.

Sweet Spot happens in every classroom each morning and takes pleace between 8:30–8:45.  This means, when your child walks into school they can step right into their routines. We strongly encourage students to arrive by 8:30 so they can fully engage in this important time before formal learning begins at 8:45.

During Sweet Spot, students enter their classrooms and engage in quiet, purposeful learning activities. These activities are intentionally designed to develop creativity and thinking skills, while also supporting fine motor development, independence and student choice. Opportunities may include open-ended creative tasks, problem-solving challenges, reflective activities, games and collaborative thinking experiences. This is a calm, respectful time that allows students to settle in and self-regulate. Students who need movement may spend time outside until the 8:45 bell.

Why Sweet Spot matters

Sweet Spot gives students choice in how they begin their day, which helps build independence, confidence and a sense of ownership over their learning. It also provides valuable time for students to connect with their peers and, importantly, to connect with their teachers in a calm, relational way. These connections help students feel known, supported and ready to engage in learning. When students feel settled and connected, they are more able to focus, take risks in their learning and approach the day with a positive mindset.

Sweet Spot also supports the development of the IB Learner Profile attributes, particularly being balanced, reflective, caring and communicators. This time aligns closely with our 2026 focus of “Walking Together Toward Peace,” as it intentionally fosters belonging, respect and strong relationships within our school community.

When students arrive on time and participate fully in Sweet Spot, they are better prepared to transition smoothly into the learning day. This routine is highly valued and plays an important role in supporting wellbeing, consistency and connection across the school.

Thank you for your support in ensuring students arrive between 8:30–8:45 am so they can benefit from this important part of the school day.