Specialist's Update 

Auslan

Drama

Music

Grade Prep

This term, Preps have been expanding their rhythm skills by applying their body percussion knowledge to a range of classroom percussion instruments such as djembe drums, tambourines, and rhythm sticks. They have explored how to keep a steady beat, play simple rhythmic patterns, and work together in group activities. Through hands-on instrumental play, students have built confidence, coordination, and a deeper understanding of rhythm.

Grade 1 & 2

Throughout this term, grade 1&2 moved on from the djembe drum and applied their rhythm and coordination skills to pitched percussion instruments such as the glockenspiel. Students learned to play simple melodies using correct mallet technique and developing their understanding of pitch and musical patterns. Through listening and playing activities, students are developing confidence in recognising how rhythm and melody work together to create music.

Grade 3 & 4

During term 4, grade 3&4 students have expanded on their ukulele fundamentals, strengthening their understanding of chords, strumming patterns, and fretboard technique. They have learned to play new songs with confidence and developed their ability to perform. Students have also explored composition by creating their own short single string pieces, experimenting with melody, rhythm, and chord progressions to express their musical ideas.

Grade 5 & 6

Throughout term 4, grade 5&6 students have built on their acoustic guitar fundamentals, building on their understanding of chords, strumming patterns, and note progressions. They have learned to play new songs with increasing confidence and accuracy, focusing on rhythm, coordination, and group performance skills. In addition, students have experimented with composing their own short pieces, using their knowledge of melody and chord structure to create original musical ideas.

P.E.

Weeks 1-5

Prep

Our youngest learners are developing essential striking skills through modified cricket and tee ball activities. They continue to improve their hand-eye coordination, along with throwing and catching techniques, setting strong foundations for future skill development.

Grade 1

Students are exploring the world of basketball, with a strong emphasis on dribbling and passing. Through games and drills, students are enhancing their ball control and understanding how to work together in dynamic environments.

Grade 2

Grade 2s are diving into both netball and tennis, continuing to develop their throwing, catching, and striking skills in more structured sports settings. They are learning to work in a team and understand game rules and positioning.

Grade 3

Students in Grade 3 are developing their understanding of game strategies through basketball and tee ball. They are refining their passing, shooting, and fielding skills, while learning to collaborate effectively with teammates.

Grade 4

Students are taking their basketball skills to the next level, focusing on game play, decision-making, and more complex movement patterns. Emphasis is placed on both individual skills and team dynamics.

Grade 4 Sport

This term, we have introduced Grade 4 sport where students will rotate through volleyball, soccer, ultimate frisbee, and basketball across the term. This gives students a broad experience across different game types, helping them develop a wide range of physical skills and strengthen their ability to work as a team and build connections with peers from other classes.

Grade 5

Grade 5s are learning the fast-paced game of badminton and returning to tee ball with greater tactical awareness. They're building on their striking and fielding skills, while developing their ability to anticipate opponents’ actions and respond effectively.

Grade 5 Sport

Grade 5 students will participate in a sport rotation which includes dodgeball, rounders, European handball, and tennis. The rotation provides opportunities to develop and apply game sense in dynamic, team-based environments.

Grade 6

Our senior students are taking on new challenges with lacrosse and tennis. They’re building resilience, strategy, and leadership while fine-tuning their gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and understanding of game rules and fair play.

Grade 6 Sport

Grade 6 students are currently enjoying a fun and active sports rotation that includes European Handball, Dodgeball, Ultimate Frisbee, and Softball, enabling them to develop a broader understanding of different game styles and strategies.

Division Athletics

Congratulations to the following students who qualified for and participated in the Division Athletics held on the 8th of October at Casey Fields: Akoash Ayoal, Luke Beaver, Jude Dergham, Dahamdee Kiirndage, Ephraim Thompson-Kalonihea, Jamie Vethecan, Kiyara Wirasinghe, Asher Hill, Michael Keti, Vaibow Kurubajar, Viha Mithun, Alvina S-T, Yousef Zamani, Shay Grant, Alex Mukherjee, and Carter Rivet.

All students did an outstanding job representing Courtenay Gardens Primary School and gave their very best on the day. A special congratulations to Carter Rivet and Alex Mukherjee, who delivered exceptional performances, qualifying for the Regional Athletics Carnival, where they proudly competed on the 24th of October.

Kind Regards, 

Ash Fenech 

HPE Coordinator 

Courtenay Gardens Primary School