AAC / Communication

Yarning Circle at Hamlyn Views School

At Hamlyn Views School, we believe in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where every student feels heard, seen, and connected. One of the ways we do this is through our daily Yarning Circle — an opportunity for staff and students to come together, check in with each other, and prepare for the day ahead.

Yarning Circle is a connecting practice, where everyone can share, listen, and engage. It begins with an Acknowledgement of Country, recognizing and respecting the traditional owners of the land on which we learn and play. This moment of reflection sets the tone for a respectful and mindful day.

The circle then moves to a series of meaningful check-ins. Students take turns with the Signing In activity, where both verbal and non-verbal communication is supported. We also complete a Zones of Regulation Check-in, where students are supported to reflect on their emotional state, fostering self-awareness and emotional intelligence. For students using AAC, we ensure they have the tools and supports they need while participating. Whether through ALDs (Aided Language Displays) or low or high-tech devices, every student is given the opportunity to share how they are feeling and connect with their peers.

Next, the class discusses the Hamlyn View’s Values, ensuring that students are reminded of the school’s expectations in the classroom and within the school community. We also engage with our AUSLAN Sign of the Week, an opportunity for students to expand their communication skills while exploring a new sign each week.

Classroom staff and students take a moment to review their Class Daily Visual Schedule and Calendar, helping them feel prepared for what’s to come. Teachers also write a Morning Message alongside the students, creating a collaborative start to the day.

In addition, we revisit Letters or Words of the Week, reinforcing literacy skills in an interactive and supportive way. Finally, we wrap up Yarning Circle with a Brain Break, giving students the chance to move, reset, and get energized for the learning ahead.

By integrating all of these activities, Yarning Circle becomes much more than just a daily routine. It’s a chance to foster connection, support emotional wellbeing, and build a strong classroom community. With AAC woven throughout each activity, we ensure that all students have the tools they need to communicate to ensure all voices are heard. Each day begins with the kind of positivity and engagement that sets the foundation for success at Hamlyn Views School. 

Yarning Circle is an opportunity for our students to feel valued, supported, and ready to take on the day with confidence and excitement. 

Here are examples of what our Yarning Circle visual prompts look like in some of our classrooms: