Junior School News

From the Head of Junior School

Northern Beaches Young Writers Competition

Georgia (J6), has achieved something truly remarkable, and it deserves to be celebrated loudly.

Out of more than 350 entries submitted to the Northern Beaches Young Writers Competition, G’s creative writing piece was selected as one of the top four in her entire age group. That is an extraordinary accomplishment, reflecting not only her talent but also her dedication, imagination, and courage in sharing her voice with a wider audience.

In recognition of this achievement, Georgia will be honoured at a special presentation event in August, where she’ll receive an official award alongside other standout young writers. Even more exciting, her work will be published in an eBook as part of the Northern Beaches Library collection — a lasting contribution that readers across the community will be able to enjoy.

This is a moment of pride not just for Georgia, but for our whole school community. Achievements like this remind us of the power of storytelling and the importance of nurturing young voices.

Congratulations Georgia, we are incredibly proud of you and can’t wait to see where your writing takes you next.

Year 5 Slam Poetry Showcase

At the end of Term 2, Year 5 students have been exploring the powerful art of slam poetry. Through studying figurative language, imagery, rhythm and performance techniques, students crafted original poems that reflected their thoughts, experiences and passions. Using a detailed rubric, students worked hard to develop both their writing and presentation skills before performing their poems in front of their classmates.

Following the classroom presentations, five students from J5 and five students from P5 were selected to participate in the Year 5 Slam Poetry Showcase. On Wednesday 24 June, these ten students bravely took to the stage to perform their poems before a judging panel consisting of Mrs Brekenridge, Ms James and Mrs Valani.

The standard of the performances was outstanding. Students spoke with confidence, passion and authenticity, sharing messages about kindness, friendship, personal growth and the world around them. Many presenters stepped well outside their comfort zones, demonstrating courage, resilience and a willingness to use their voices to make an impact.

The showcase was inspired by Ms James, who recognised the power of slam poetry as a way for students to develop their writing, presentation and communication skills. Her vision created an opportunity for students across Year 5 to celebrate their learning, share their voices and inspire one another through the spoken word.

The feedback from both students and staff was overwhelmingly positive. Audience members commented on how engaging, meaningful and thought-provoking the poems were, and how strongly they connected to the learning that had taken place throughout the unit.

Mrs Breckenridge was particularly impressed by the quality of the presentations, sharing:

"Each student has a voice. The slam poetry showcase highlighted what our Year 5 students care about and value. It was wonderful to see them express their thoughts, passions and perspectives with such confidence and conviction."

We are incredibly proud of all Year 5 students for their effort, creativity and willingness to take risks. The collaboration between P5 and J5 was a wonderful example of what Pittwater House is all about—supporting one another, celebrating individual strengths and encouraging every student to find and share their voice.

Save the Dates: