From the 

Head of Junior School

Celebrating our Staff

This term the staff of the Junior School were upheld by the community on World Teacher’s Day. Celebrated in more than 100 countries worldwide, World Teachers’ Day was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 1994 to recognise the role of teachers in society. In the Junior school the morning commenced with a colourful treasure hunt for students as they searched for buckets to leave notes and pictures expressing their gratitude to staff members. The P&F contributed to the day with coffee and cake for staff from across the campus. 

There are many days celebrated across the school, Australia and the world to raise awareness or bring recognition. Taking a moment to acknowledge World Teachers’ is important. We can all reflect on our time at school and with the benefit of hindsight recognise teachers as the architects of the future. They impart knowledge, instil values, and foster a love for learning in students. Their influence extends beyond the classroom, shaping the character and aspirations of young minds.

Step it Up Day

Last week all students in the Junior school took a step up as they spent two days immersed in their 2024 classrooms. These days are important for young children as they mark the transition between one year to the next. They provide a space for reflection and looking forward. They ease worries that can come when undergoing change and create a sense of excitement of what is to come. There was a new sense of excitement this year amongst the children. It was wonderful to see students running to line up in the morning, eager to get the day started. 

These days serve as an essential bridge for students, helping them adapt to the upcoming challenges and opportunities. They allow students to familiarise themselves with their teachers, classmates, and routines, easing anxieties and promoting a positive start. "Step It Up Days" help teachers gauge the academic and social needs of their students, enabling tailored support. Moreover, they instill a sense of belonging and build a foundation for a productive and engaging school year, fostering a harmonious and motivated learning environment.

For students and their commencing at Kinross Wolaroi in 2024 it provides time to make connections ahead of the new school year. The two days provide a structured and welcoming environment for students to interact with their peers. Icebreaker activities and team-building exercises encourage students to open up, share experiences, and discover common interests. This helps break down social barriers and fosters a sense of belonging. These early friendships are important as they not only enhance the overall school experience but also contribute to a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Classes for 2024

The School values the trust parents place in the professional judgement of the School and the importance of the School and parents working together. We know our students well and consider what is the best learning environment for each student to maximise student growth and development. The best possible learning environment takes into account:

• Academically parallel classes
• The behavioural, physical, social and emotional needs of students
• A balance of genders where possible
• The most appropriate social combination

Staff are currently completing end of year assessments with your child and have been reflecting on their growth and next steps in readiness for next year. They are using this information as they form classes for 2023. In forming these classes I welcome discussions with parents as to any considerations that should be taken into account. In particular, helpful information on social needs and friendship issues is welcomed. Please contact me directly at dhayward@kws.nsw.edu.au before Thursday 23 November 2023.

Students will know who their class teacher is and who is in their class as they return to campus in 2024 and commence the school year. For some students, families will be contacted prior to the start of the year as this is considered appropriate in preparing them. 

Kinross Wolaroi Students making their Mark 

At Kinross Wolaroi we value and strive for academic rigor. Students have a myriad of opportunities to engage in enriching learning experiences which in some instances the school provides or facilitates student access to them.  Please share with us your child’s interest, passions, and achievements by emailing junioroffice@kws.nsw.edu.au.

Last week I had the great pleasure of accompany Zaro Jalal and his family to a presentation at the Newcastle Permanent Branch in Orange. Each year students in in the Junior School, along with participants from some 330 schools across the Hunter, Central Coast, Mid North Coast, North Coast, Northern Rivers, Central West and New England North West, undertake a competition that challenges students to complete 35 questions without help from calculators, rulers or other mathematical instruments. At a special ceremony at the Orange branch Zaro was recognised as a high performer and awarded a District Award.