And that’s a wrap! Term 4 has flown by, and it's been fantastic to see many long-term projects completed just in time to create a few Christmas decorations. Here’s a snapshot of what we've been up to this term…

Class 1 dove into as much craft as they could this term. Most completed their recorder cases early on, then some made snakes out of scrap wool and jewel bags using techniques developed throughout the year—button stitching, bubble stitch, dolphin stitch, securing elements and finger knitting. Students had creative freedom with their bag design, choosing all colours and decorations. The past two weeks, students have been working on Christmas decorations using the same techniques, with some students creating multiple tree ornaments.

After finishing their knitted dolls, Class 2 moved on to Australian puppets based on The Kangaroo and the Koala (adapted from The Tortoise and the Hare). They designed puppet faces, stitched details, and made stocking-stitched gloves to attach them to. Each puppet was unique, with some featuring open mouths, wool whiskers, and button eyes. On Thursday, the students will have the opportunity to perform with their puppets on a stage they have created from cardboard boxes.

Nearly all of Class 3 have completed their crochet cushion covers, which will be stitched and ready for use in Class 4! This was a significant accomplishment, and the students should be proud of their perseverance. Earlier in the term, we took a break from crochet to experiment with bushcraft, creating animals, baskets, and shapes using soaked buffel grass and coloured wool. A small group helped cut the grass from out the back of the school, and I look forward to exploring more with local materials in future projects.

All components of Class 4’s homework bags are complete! The intricate embroidered straps and linocut-printed fabric pieces will be stitched together over the holidays. Needle felting followed, and students have made some stunning Christmas decorations. I was amazed by their creativity and how well they took to needle felting. I can't wait to see their future creations, especially for the Beanie Festival next year!

After Class 5’s trip to Hermannsburg, we began designing Greek hydrias, and students engaged in a masterclass to learn techniques to create their own pots. Over five lessons, students worked on their designs, which were bisque-fired and are now being painted. In between, Class 5 worked on their first major woodwork project: wooden bowls. Students enjoyed the hands-on experience, learning many new skills as they carved, filed, sanded, and oiled their masterpieces.

Class 6 has completed their hand-stitched dolls! Most students kept their figures simple (eager to dive into woodwork), but they really showed their creativity when designing spoons. From ladles to teaspoons, salad servers, and flat spoons, students problem-solved, applied prior knowledge, and learned new techniques. It’ll be sad to see this group move on, and I wish them the best for their next adventures.

Class 7 continued working with wood this term. Early on, we visited Yirara College to try out their well-equipped wood shop, where students made chopping boards with grooves, curved corners, and holes for hanging. Harry (the Class 1 teacher for next year) assisted us on the excursions and was highly knowledgeable having grown up around the machines we were using. Next, Class 7 created movable birds using skills developed throughout the year, some chose to wood-burn details and others painted. It was a fun problem-solving challenge to figure out how the birds would fly!

With their pyjamas finished, Class 8 moved on to reptile shelters. Students researched and designed homes for local animals, with many opting for birdhouses with hinged roofs. Each project was unique, and students learned valuable skills in design, joinery, working with power tools, and how to build a 3D structure. It’s been exciting to see these projects come to life, and we look forward to finding homes for them around the school.

As I wrap up my first year as the Craft teacher here at Steiner (and my first year as a teacher!), I’ve cherished the many wonderful memories and the learning journey alongside the students. I look forward to the new year and all the exciting projects ahead.

Wishing everyone a wonderful break!

Bindi

The Alice Springs Steiner School Newsletter

Educating the whole child: head, heart, and hands.

End of Year Special Edition · 18 Dec 2024

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