Year 1 News

From Joey, Year 1 teacher

2026 House Captain Election

As part of the introduction of exciting new student leadership roles, Junior House Captains for 2026, the Year One students hosted a House Captain Election Day on Level 3 last Thursday. We were delighted to welcome our Principals, Sarah and Adrienne, as special guests.

Shortlisted candidates confidently presented their speeches and answered questions from our guests with courage and wholehearted messages. They explained the actions and behaviours they would demonstrate to model and uphold the RISE values throughout 2026 and beyond.

Following the speeches, all Year One students were invited to vote for their preferred captain. They were encouraged to support peers who inspire positive choices and meaningful contributions to the Junior School. This experience not only allowed students to practise their public speaking skills but also empowered them to share their opinions and make an impact—demonstrating respect for student voice and agency. This is one of the many ways our school supports students to become active and critical members of the community.

Phonics

This fortnight in Phonics, the Year One students learnt about the grapheme–phoneme correspondences (GPCs) ‘tch’, ‘ch’, and ‘dge’, which represent the /ch/ and /j/ sounds. Through spelling practice, students identified the pattern that ‘tch’ and ‘dge’ only occur after short vowels (a, e, i, o, and u).

In the final week, students will also explore the spelling pattern of ‘c’ making the /s/ sound and ‘g’ making the /j/ sound before the letters e, i, or y. While learning and practising these sounds, students will have many opportunities to apply their knowledge through games, partner reading, spelling, and writing activities.

In addition to developing their phonological awareness, students explored ways to change the meaning of base words. They practised reading, spelling, and explaining the meaning of the suffixes ‘-ed’ and ‘-ing’ when added to verbs and adjectives.

Writing Experience

To wrap up a productive and fabulous year of literacy learning, Year One students revisited procedural writing by applying the five senses technique during a chocolate spider cooking experience. Students visited the Level One Kitchen space and participated in this hands-on activity with the support of their teachers.

The air was filled not only with the indulgent scent of chocolate but also with the excitement and enthusiasm of our young learners.

Holiday Message

Thank you to everyone for your continued support throughout the year. Our students have had an amazing school year, and the Year One team wishes all families a wonderful festive season and a safe, restful school holiday.