From Mrs Sweeney
Celebrating Confidence, Curiosity and Joy with National Simultaneous Storytime
Reading in the early years plays a vital role in shaping children’s academic, creative and emotional development. It is through stories that young learners begin to make sense of the world around them, developing the language, imagination and critical thinking skills that underpin future learning. At Kambala, we are reminded each day of the extraordinary curiosity and creativity that characterise childhood. Through reading, children are provided with opportunities to explore new ideas, encounter different perspectives and imagine possibilities far beyond their immediate experience. More than simply a literacy skill, reading nurtures the creativity and imagination that empower children to become confident storytellers, while building the fluency and comprehension essential for academic achievement.
This powerful connection between reading, imagination and learning was brought vividly to life during this year’s National Simultaneous Storytime, an annual Australia-wide initiative that brings together children, educators and communities to celebrate the joy of reading through the shared experience of a single text read simultaneously across the country. Designed to promote the importance of literacy and foster a love of books in the early years, the event reminds us of the transformative power of stories to inspire curiosity, creativity and connection.
Our Massie and Hampshire House students were delighted to take part in this special event through a highly engaging and interactive reading of Luna Roo. Skilfully brought to life by our Junior School Drama teacher, Anna Derrig, the story was transformed into an immersive theatrical experience through expressive storytelling, dramatic voice work, movement and thoughtful audience participation. The performance captured the imagination of the students and demonstrated how stories can leap from the page to life.
As students followed Luna Roo’s journey, they were invited to connect deeply with the story’s central message about the importance of believing in oneself. Luna Roo’s perseverance and courage provided a meaningful opportunity for students to reflect on resilience, confidence and the value of trusting in their own abilities. These themes are particularly significant in the early years, when children are developing both their sense of self as learners and the confidence to approach new experiences with curiosity and courage.
Ms Derrig’s performance also highlighted the important role of oral storytelling in strengthening reading engagement and comprehension. By animating the text through performance, students were able to connect emotionally and intellectually with the narrative, deepening their understanding while experiencing the joy and wonder that stories can inspire. This kind of shared literary experience supports the development of meaning-making skills, while also fostering the imagination that underpins creative thought and expression.
Experiences such as National Simultaneous Storytime remind us that reading is not simply about decoding words on a page. It is about opening doors to imagination, sparking creativity and nurturing the confidence to create stories of our own. By fostering a culture of reading in the early years, we equip our littlest Kambala learners with strong academic foundations, creative confidence and joyful curiosity.
Whole School Survey
In support of our school improvement process, Kambala has provided an opportunity for parents (Hampshire House to Year 12) and students (Year 5 - Year 12) to provide feedback relating to their views of the school across a number of areas.
Last week MMG Education invited parents to complete a questionnaire, which remains open until Sunday 7 June 2026.
At the conclusion of the research period, MMG will provide Principal Danvers with a report. There will be opportunities for members of the school community to receive feedback from the research.
In anticipation, we thank you for the valuable contribution you will be making by completing the questionnaire.
2026 Year 3 Term 3 Saturday Sport Registration
Please click here to access all the information in regards to the Year 3 Saturday Sports offer for Term 3 2026.
Year 3 will be given the opportunity to play Netball in Term 3.
Please note that the final day for registrations is Friday 4 June. The Google Registration form can be found at the bottom of the letter.
Pupil Free Day - Friday 5 June, 2026
We advise our Preparation to Year 6 parents that Friday 5 June, 2026 is Staff Development Day and students will not attend school on this day.
Please also note that Monday 8 June is the King's Birthday Public Holiday.
Junior School Events
Please see the next page for exciting Junior School Events and Dates for your Calendars!