Junior School News

From the Head of Junior School

It is hard to believe that we are halfway through the academic year. It has been a very busy term full of learning, sporting, and cultural activities. When I consider the Term 2 schedule, it is easy to see why some of our students are ready for a break. They have taken part in the Cross Country and gymnastics. Some have represented the school at Regional, District or State level in swimming, athletics, soccer, and cross country. We have had excursions to the Chinese Museum, the Art Gallery and Mrs James’ farm. Our Preps had the Monash University medical students visit to run a teddy bear hospital and our Year 4 and 5 students have attended their annual camp. We had Professor Marc Brackett visit us from New Haven, Connecticut to talk to our students, staff and parents about emotional and social learning using the RULER approach. Last week our school celebrated NAIDOC Week with the Wanyara group who provided a cultural dance and art incursion. All of this in addition to our classroom lessons and end of term assessments. Overall, our students have responded exceptionally well to the workload of Term 2. I wish them all a restful, well-earned holiday.

I would also like to thank our dedicated staff for their hard work in the first half of the year. Along with teaching full time, they have implemented an updated curriculum, have been reviewing and redeveloping Junior School assessments and reports and are all members of teams that are undertaking strategic improvement projects. At the same time, they are completing a teacher growth process based on improving assessment outcomes. I am proud to work with such a dedicated team who put the needs of our students and our school at the forefront. I firmly believe that the commitment of our staff to the school mission and values is one of the main reasons that our school is held in such high regards in the local community. It is this commitment to educating our students that has seen demand for places in our Junior School grow so strongly over the past 12 months.  We will welcome 6 new students at the beginning of next term which will see our Year 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 classes at capacity for the remainder of 2024. Demand for places in 2025 is also strong which is a nice endorsement our school and teachers. 

Junior School Assessment and Reporting 

Over the past 12 months, our Junior School teachers have been reviewing and rewriting the Junior School curriculum to ensure that it aligns with the new Australian Curriculum Version 9. They have also been developing new assessment methods that align with the Achievement Standards set out in the new version of the Australian Curriculum.  This is all part of the school wide approach to aligning our assessment and reporting processes. More information about Assessment and Reporting Procedures can be found on Astra.  

Junior School teachers have begun adjusting and redeveloping their assessment items as part of the transition to the new Assessment and Reporting procedures. Year levels are aligning key assessment tasks across all classes. These key assessments are then marked and moderated to ensure consistency across the classes. Marking criteria are also being adjusted to reflect the bell curve outlined in the Assessment and Reporting procedures.   

How progress is reported to parents has also been adjusted.  The historic summative Term 1 and Term 3 reports have been replaced with formative Parent Teacher interviews in Term 1 and Term 3. A formative comment is provided on Astra after each interview.  

At the end of Semester 1 and Semester 2, parents will be provided with a Summative Report that covers each subject taught that semester. Each subject page will have an outline of the content that has been taught, an indication of student performance in each aspect of the subject and an indication of student effort and dedication to the subject. Academic performance is reported using the new 5-point scale that is outlined in the Assessment and Reporting procedures. Effort and dedication to the subject is reported using the traditional 5-point scale from Very High to Very Low on each Subject Report. A summary of the Effort and Dedication marks with descriptors will also be published on Astra. An overall comment on student performance is included in each Semester Report. There may also be comments provided in specific subjects where the teacher deems it necessary to provide more information than can be conveyed in the indicators.  

Academic Reporting Scale 

Student reports for Semester 1 will be published to Astra on Friday afternoon. Parents will receive an Astra notification when reports are published. A printed copy of the reports will also be posted to parents.  

Parents are reminded that Parent Teacher interviews are scheduled for Weeks 3 and 4 of next term. These will provide a good opportunity for teachers to discuss assessment, to discuss any areas of growth identified through the reports and to outline plans for supporting growth for the second half of the year. These interviews will be held onsite in your child’s classroom.  Interviews will be open from Monday the 22nd of July for booking.  To book your interviews, please log in to Astra and then click on the “Interviews” icon located at the top of the page.  Please note: Families who work with the Inclusive Education Department and require an SSG meeting for their child will be contacted directly by staff to book interviews. 

Mr Donald Thompson

Head of Junior School

NAIDOC Week

NAIDOC Week is a time for all Australians to come together to celebrate the rich history, diverse cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year, our school community came alive with a vibrant array of activities and events that honoured this year's theme and deepened our understanding and appreciation of First Nations cultures.

Our NAIDOC Week celebrations kicked off with a profound and moving Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Jason Kerr of the Dja Dja Wurrung people. Jason’s words and the traditional smoke created a respectful and spiritual atmosphere, setting the tone for the week’s activities. The smoke, used to cleanse and ward off bad spirits, is a sacred ritual that brought a sense of peace and connection to our school grounds.

Our Junior School Choir, led by Mrs Laura Dusseljee and accompanied by Mrs Belinda Moon on the keyboard, comprised of talented students from Years 3 to 6, delivered a heartfelt performance of "Ngarra Burra Ferra." The Super Strings Band, led by Mrs Cally Bartlett, assisted with the performance. This song, with its powerful lyrics and harmonious melodies, resonated deeply with everyone present, highlighting the importance of unity and cultural pride. The choir's dedication and practice truly shone through, making this a standout moment of our NAIDOC celebrations.

Lunchtime Activities: Throughout the week, students enjoyed a variety of lunchtime activities that offered both fun and learning:

• Bushtucker Tea and Digital Storytelling: Students had the opportunity to sample a traditional tea, gaining insights into the nutritional and medicinal benefits of native plants while listening to First Nations stories. 
• First Nations Dance Party: This lively event got everyone moving and grooving to the beats of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music.
• Flag Making: Students expressed their creativity by making flags representing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, learning about their symbols and significance.
• Mindful Colouring: A calming activity where students coloured Indigenous artwork bookmarks, promoting relaxation and mindfulness while appreciating the beauty of Aboriginal art.

Classroom Activities: Inside the classrooms, students engaged in a wide range of activities that enhanced their understanding of First Nations cultures and histories. These activities, integrated into the curriculum, provided meaningful learning experiences for all year levels.

Special Incursion: Wanyarra Group

A highlight for many was the special incursion by the Wanyarra group, who shared their knowledge and skills in Aboriginal dance and art with students from Prep to Year 6. This hands on experience allowed students to immerse themselves in the traditional practices of Indigenous culture, fostering a deeper connection and respect.

Our NAIDOC Week celebrations concluded with a sense of pride and unity. The events and activities throughout the week not only educated our students about the rich cultures of First Nations peoples but also encouraged a spirit of inclusiveness and respect. 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the staff, students, and community members who contributed to making NAIDOC Week 2024 a memorable and impactful experience. Together, we celebrated the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, reaffirming our commitment to reconciliation and understanding.

Let us carry forward the spirit of NAIDOC Week throughout the year, continuing to learn, respect, and celebrate the incredible heritage of our First Nations peoples.

Mrs Catherine Stagg 

Preparatory V teacher and Junior School NAIDOC Week event organiser

Year 4 Camp - Creswick Log Cabin

Year 4 had an amazing time recently at the Creswick Log Cabin Camp. We completed activities such as the Giant swing, Zip line, Clip and Climb, Initiatives, Orienteering and many more. We all enjoyed delicious meals, warm rooms and great company.

My favourite thing at camp was the Zip Line because it was great fun.

Winter Speer (4D Frew)

My favourite thing at camp was sleep time in my cabin with my friends.

Sheenal Sharma (4D Jones)

My favourite thing at camp was the Giant Swing because it was scary but fun.

Harvey Starr (4D Frew)

My favourite thing at camp was the Giant Swing because it was so much fun.

Lily Smith (4M Frew)

My favourite thing at camp was the Frisbee Golf because I liked walking all over the camp grounds.

Beatrice Batters (4M Millward)

My favourite thing at camp was the Zip Line because I liked flying through the air.

Liam O’Shea (4V Jenkin)

My favourite thing at camp was meeting all my cabin members and sleeping in the cabin.

Kara Wang (4V Jenkin)

My favourite thing at camp was cooking damper.

Liana Salvatore (4V Millward)

Year 5 Camp - Sovereign Hill

Students Reflections:

From the moment you enter Sovereign Hill, you are transported back in time to the Gold Rush era in 1850’s. I observed the big beautiful horses galloping to pick up the next lot of people that are about to go on the carriage. I looked over and noticed the actors acting outside the building with their big corsets. I listened to the loud soothing Aura show. I also recognised the loud gunshots that the soldiers made with their weapons. It was so noisy we had to block our ears! We entered the lolly making shop and I sniffed the rhubarb and custard lollies. The smell of the lollies made my mouth water, but luckily we got to taste one after! I highly recommend the eggs and bacon! It was so good I wanted seconds! After a long day of hard work at Sovereign Hill, we finally got our dinner. We ate sausages, mash, gravy, bread rolls and corn, it was scrumptious! As we were waiting for the horses I felt the smooth wooden railing. I also felt the leather smooth but rough seats. I turned my head and felt the smooth metal window sill, as I stroked my hand across it I felt a cold shiver go up my hand because it was so cold! 

In conclusion, I recommend going to Sovereign Hill but remember to bring warm clothes!

Leni Chapman (5M Aherne)

From the moment you enter Sovereign Hill you are transported back in time to the gold rush in Colonial Australia. When you step into Sovereign Hill you are instantly met with the sight of the highly talented actors working and walking around the shops. 

On the first night we went to the Aura Light Show which was very beautiful and very interesting. As well as seeing many things, there were also many sounds to overwhelm your eardrums like the tall henchmen firing blank bullets out of their loud muskets. As we walked out of a theatre production we were greeted with a large fire. You could taste the

thick black smoke rising out of the fire pit and experience the heat radiating on your tongue. After that, we went to the confectionery making store. In there, they created many interesting lollies and treats. The sweet sensation of the sour acid drops vibrated in my mouth, covered in saliva. Finally, we had to leave after going gold panning. I dipped my hand into the water and felt the river water flowing around my palms and the smooth wet stone moving around underneath my fingers.

In conclusion, I’d really recommend going to Sovereign Hill, and I’d love to go back, anytime.

Abe Chapman (5M Riley)

From the moment you enter Sovereign Hill you are transported back in time to the gold rush era of the 1850s. When l was walking down the main street I could see the horses trotting, old buildings, old shops, guards or soldiers, rusty gold pans and the beautiful 'Aura Sound and Light Show’. I also noticed the wet gold mine. I heard the public talking and the horses trotting down the main street. I also noticed the blacksmith banging on metal and the goldsmith placing the gold bar in the water. I listened to the Aura Sound and Light Show. I also recognised the steam whistle blowing every single hour. I tasted the beautiful and delicious breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and dessert. The breakfast contained bacon, egg, toast, mushroom, cereal and orange juice. For lunch, we had baked potatoes and a salad with it. For dinner, we had rice with chicken and veggies. I smelled the delicious and amazing food that they gave us. The horses gave a little stinky gift before they left. We sniffed the lollies and the smoke that came from the fire pit. I touched the food, the sweet and lovely fruit, the rusty gold pans and the dirty shovels. We also tried the good-tasting lollies. When we walked around the fire pit our hands were boiling hot. Some of us got to hold one of the gold bars, which was surprisingly really heavy. I also got an item that l purchased from the old shops.

In conclusion, l recommend this for others who are interested in the Gold Rush era. But 3 days was not enough time. 

Piper News - Trip to Sovereign Hill

Hello welcome back to Piper...... News!

Today I am telling you about my fantastic trip with Year 5 to Sovereign Hill.

We left on Wednesday 5 June for a 3-day camp. On the first day we went gold panning. I thought it was a lot of fun, I didn't get any gold though. I would love to do it again. Another activity we did was watch a 3D movie. It was about how the world was formed. It was crazy. Then we got on a big bus train thing. It took us to the river; it had a video of how animals made our land. Then next door was another movie theatre. Suddenly, the doors opened, and it was a replica of the 1850 mines and homes. It was so cool and scary.

On the second day we went to the mines. We went on a roller coaster train through a very dark tunnel. Then we stopped and got a tour around the mines. It was very interesting and scary. We got back on the train and returned to the surface backwards. After dinner we went to a magic show. The magician was very talented.

On the third day we finally went shopping to spend our $15 anywhere in Sovereign Hill! I got sour grape and raspberry rock candy. It was so delicious. I highly recommend it. We watched the rock candy being made. It took a lot of hard work and time for them to make a little bit of candy but it was worth it.

I had a lot of fun at Sovereign Hill. Thank you for reading Piper…….. News!

Piper Hooke (5D Riley)

Preparatory Farm Excursion 

Preparatory students recently had the exciting opportunity to visit Mrs James's farm for an unforgettable day filled with hands on learning and fun. The day started with watching the shearers expertly crutching the sheep, showcasing the intricate process of merino wool production.

Afterwards, we had the chance to walk up the beautiful hills surrounding the farm, take in the stunning views of the countryside, and build fairy houses amidst the tranquil surroundings. 

We were also treated to a demonstration of the sheepdogs in action, marvelling at their agility and skill as they herded the sheep with precision. 

Farmer Tom also gave us a fascinating insight into the world of merino wool production, sharing his knowledge and expertise with us. To top it all off, we had the opportunity to sketch the rolling hills and capture the beauty of the farm in our artwork.

Overall, our visit to Mrs James's farm was an enriching experience that taught us about farm production and allowed us to appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into farming. We are grateful for the opportunity and thank Mrs James for having us at her farm.

Preparatory students were asked, "What did you like best about your visit to Mrs James's farm?" Here are some of their responses: 

Catherine Stagg

Preparatory V

Sandhurst Soccer Tournament

On Thursday 6 June a team of fourteen Year Six girls went to the Epsom Sports Precinct to represent Girton in the Sandhurst Soccer Tournament. 

We were all nervous in the lead-up to our game as it was many of our players' first experience playing soccer. But we had high hopes for success as we stepped off the bus ready to play our first game.

Our first game of the day was at 9:45am against Strathfieldsaye Primary School. Everyone was quite excited to see how our first game would go. We fought two hard halves and faced off well, but when the final whistle blew, we ended up walking off the field with a 0-0 draw.

Our next game we were up against Quarry Hill who proved themselves to be another tough opponent, we played a great match, improving our teamwork and skills as we went. We nearly got there but unfortunately, a goal slipped through and we ended up with a narrow 0-1 loss.

We were ready to play as we stepped onto the field against Camp Hill Primary. Our team played very well, fighting for the ball with great resilience and teamwork. Eventually, in the second half, we had a great run down the field and our first goal of the day was scored! When the whistle sounded, we were all exhilarated to know we had just won our first game of the tournament 1-0.

After our energising win, we were even more ready and determined to contest in our next match against White Hills. In this match, we showcased our skills and had a few good chances but ended up with a very close 0-0 draw.

Our nerves were high when we kicked off against St. Francis who we knew were going to be a tough team, however, our resilience was evident, and we played our best match of the day. Although St. Francis scored the first goal of the game, our defence stepped up and helped us turn it over from 0-1 to 1-1 at halftime. We were thrilled to have scored our second goal of the day, however we knew it wasn’t over yet. We fought incredibly well and almost came away with a draw but unfortunately, within the last ten seconds an own goal was scored their way and we stepped off the field so close with a heartbreaking 1-2 loss as our final result of the day.

Overall, throughout the day our team improved so much showcasing our sportsmanship and earning respect from the other teams. We all had so much fun and cannot wait to do it again next year.

Alice McIntosh (6M Frew)

On the 6 June, twelve Year Six boys represented our school in the 2024 Sandhurst Soccer Tournament. We had some good games, winning two, drawing two, and losing two. Even though we may have not made it to the next round, we were all proud of the Girton boys who represented our school. They had a great time and had lots of fun! 

Steel Austin (6V Millward)

Camp Australia

Junior Golf Challenge

Junior Chess Tournament