It has been a fabulous Term 1 in Group 9, getting to know each student and their families.

Building rapport with the students has been incredibly rewarding, and it has been lovely to see friendships beginning to develop within the classroom. It has truly been a joy to watch each student’s engagement and progress grow throughout the term.

The students have been superstars as they settled into the school routine. We have been promoting independence through individualised visual schedules and personalised programs, particularly during mealtimes, toileting, and class rotations.

Here are some learning highlights from Term 1:

We have been exploring different foods and textures through cooking and fine motor activities. Students have done a fantastic job engaging in these hands-on experiences, which have supported both their learning and sensory development.

We have also been learning about ourselves by exploring each student’s likes and dislikes. Through these activities, students have begun to build a strong understanding of themselves and their peers.

During morning circle time, we have been focusing on a “Letter of the Week” and a “Core Vocabulary Word of the Week.” Students have explored these concepts through books, crafts, and a range of engaging activities. They have done an excellent job using their communication skills to brainstorm words beginning with each letter. It has been great to see individual communication skills develop through a focus on core vocabulary, supported by visuals, Auslan, verbal language, and students’ personal communication devices.

We have also been developing turn-taking skills with both adults and peers. This has been supported through a range of activities, including games such as ‘Pop the Pig’ and shared reading with interactive storybooks. ‘Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes’ has been a particular favourite.

A highlight for staff this term was Harmony Week, where we explored each student’s background and celebrated the diversity within our classroom. We learned how to say “hello” in each student’s home language, and this has continued during group circle time through our “Hello” song. Students are enjoying greeting one another in different languages, helping to build a strong sense of inclusion, respect, and connection.

It has been a pleasure teaching the class and watching their understanding grow week by week. Thank you for a wonderful term.

Next term, we look forward to continuing to build on students’ independence, communication, and social skills. Students will continue engaging in core vocabulary learning, interactive group activities, and hands-on experiences such as cooking and play-based learning activities.

Have a safe and enjoyable holiday.

Abbey, Sheena, and Kim

Group 16