Junior School News

From the Acting Head of Junior School

After a week of steady rain, the sun has finally begun to peek through the clouds, bringing a fresh sense of energy and renewal to the Junior School, especially Year 4 who started off Week 3 with an excursion to the Maritime Museum. As the puddles dry and the playgrounds reopen, we look forward to welcoming parents onto the campus for Parent Teacher Interviews this week. 

Thank you to all Year 6 parents who attended the Amazing Me session with their children last week. 

Please enjoy a reflection of some events and experiences that our students have been a part of. 

Year 5 Luna Park Excursion

At the end of Term 2, our Year 5 students ventured to Luna Park for a hands-on science excursion focused on forces in motion. Through rides, games and interactive activities, students explored concepts such as gravity, friction and acceleration in a fun and engaging environment. It was a memorable day that brought classroom learning to life.

Going to Luna Park was a great experience for me and everyone who was lucky enough to come. It was a great way of learning about forces and motion and having an amazing time. My personal favourite ride was the big dipper because while most people didn’t go on the big dipper, people who did, like me thought it was the best. There was a ride called the Rotor that spun fast in a circle and stuck the people inside the cylinder up against the wall so that they were hanging midair against the side of the cylinder because of the speed of cylinder. Going to Luna Park was awesome.

Roman (P5)

YSafe

During Week 1, our Year 6 students attended a Cyber Safety presentation by ySafe. The ySafe team is made up of experts from varied backgrounds such as child psychologists, former police officers and teachers and are the leading provider of cyber safety and social media education. The sessions aimed to explain the many benefits of connecting and socialising online while effectively addressing the importance of being alert to risks. Utilising real-world stories and role play, students were provided with a safe forum to explore the impact of key themes such as cyber bullying, social exclusion, and the power of bystanders who choose to stand up and contribute to positive issue resolution.

 Junior Dance Company 

On Friday 25 July, our Junior Dance Company represented our School with pride at the annual Dance Showcase hosted by Ravenswood School. This exciting event brought together student dance groups from many different schools to celebrate creativity, expression, and a passion for dance.

Our dancers demonstrated great teamwork on stage and were an absolute credit to the School, both in their performance and in their conduct throughout the day.

We are incredibly proud of the Junior Dance Company and look forward to seeing them continue to flourish throughout the year.

HICES Debating

The Junior School Debating team delivered an outstanding performance in the preliminary finals of the HICES debating competition, successfully arguing the affirmative side of the topic 'That all advertising aimed at children should be made illegal' against Central Coast Grammar School. Demonstrating excellent preparation, persuasive arguments, and confident delivery, the team secured a well-deserved win. Their success in this round not only reflects their hard work and dedication but also advances them to the top 8 junior teams in Australia.  An incredible achievement of which they should be extremely proud.

Book Week, Edible Book Fair and Author Visit

Book Week at the Junior School was a vibrant celebration of reading, creativity, and community spirit. The week kicked off with a colourful Book Week Parade, where students dressed up as their favourite characters from classic tales and modern favourites alike. From Harry Potter to Matilda and superheroes to animals, the playground was filled with laughter and excitement. The cake competition was another highlight, with families showcasing their baking skills with book-themed cakes that were as delicious as they were imaginative. 

Throughout the week, students took part in a range of activities that brought stories to life. Visiting authors engaged children with interactive readings, storytelling sessions, and writing workshops that encouraged them to explore their own storytelling talents. The library was a hive of activity with book swaps, reading corners, and a special display of student-recommended books. Book Week not only promoted a love of reading but also strengthened the school’s sense of community, with families, teachers, and students coming together to celebrate the power of stories.

Year 4 Australian National Maritime Museum Excursion

On Monday 4 August, our Year 4 students visited the Australian National Maritime Museum, where they explored how navigation, exploration and trade have shaped Australia’s history.

Guided through interactive exhibits and galleries, students learned about traditional navigational methods used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Pacific Islander seafarers, and European explorers. Students also gained valuable insights into Aboriginal culture, deepening their understanding of pre-colonial life and the impact of European arrival. 

Students loved the opportunity to experience the Australian-built replica of James Cook's HMB Endeavour - one of the world's most accurate maritime replica vessels giving insight into Captain Cook's epic 1768 - 71 world voyage. 

This excursion was a wonderful opportunity for students to step beyond the classroom and experience firsthand the rich, interconnected histories that have helped shape modern Australia.

Blanket Drive for Monika’s Pet Rescue

As students heard at our last assembly, Abigail (J3) is leading a heartfelt initiative to support Monika's Pet Rescue. 

If you have any extra blankets at home that are in good condition, we would greatly appreciate your donation. These will provide warmth and comfort to rescued pets while they wait for their forever homes.

A collection bucket has been placed in the J5 classroom, and donations will be accepted until the end of Week 4. Abigail will then deliver the blankets to Monika's Pet Rescue.

Thank you for supporting this compassionate cause and helping our students make a difference in the community.

After School Care:

PITTWATER HOUSE AFTER SCHOOL CARE 

Monday to Thursday from 3pm to 5.30pm  

VENUE

Discovery Hub (DH2)

COST

$20 (no government rebate) 

REGISTRATION

Permanent and casual bookings via: TPHSASC@tphs.nsw.edu.au 

FOOD

Parents to provide afternoon tea for their children

Fruit will be available at all times

ENQUIRIES

    For enquiries during TPHSASC operational hours (3pm to 5.30pm)

please call: 9972 5775

NOTE: Casual bookings and cancellations must be made before 12pm

on the day of booking