Learning Across the
Junior School

From the Assistant Principal: Head of Junior School

Year 6 Camp

This week, the Year 6 students embarked on an exciting and enriching educational camp in Canberra. The girls had the opportunity to explore some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. Throughout the week, the students visited several key locations that broadened their understanding of Australia’s history, governance, and innovation.

At the Australian War Memorial, the girls paid their respects to the nation's servicemen and women, learning about their sacrifices and the importance of remembrance.

Their visit to Parliament House offered valuable insights into the workings of Australia's democracy. The girls had the opportunity to observe where key decisions that shape the nation are made and received a personal talk from Senator Marielle Smith and James Stevens MP, the Federal Member for Sturt.

A trip to Questacon, Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre, sparked the students’ curiosity with interactive exhibits that made learning about science fun and engaging. They also enjoyed the tranquillity of the National Arboretum, a haven for rare and endangered trees that cultivated an appreciation for environmental conservation.

The girls were equally inspired by their time at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), where they learned about the dedication and discipline required to excel in professional sports. Another highlight was the Royal Australian Mint, where they discovered how Australian currency is designed and produced.

In addition, the students explored many other significant locations, further enhancing their understanding of Australia’s rich culture and history.

The camp was a deeply rewarding experience, providing not only educational value but also the chance to create lifelong memories. Loreto is proud to provide opportunities that inspire learning beyond the classroom. A big thank you goes to Ms Annelies Roe, Ms Amanda Smith and Ms Magdalene Kho, who accompanied the girls on this camp.

Music Showcase

Our Pre-School to Year 4 students presented a Music Showcase last week in the Performing Arts Centre. This performance celebrated their classroom learning through music, where instrumental immersion programs, the training choir, and solo performances were featured. The event highlighted not only the students' hard work, dedication, and creativity but also the essential skills they have developed, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, reasoning, and logic. It stands as a testament to the comprehensive music education we provide. A special thanks to Mr. Tom Hamnett, our Junior School Music teacher, Mr. Tim Dejong, our Director of Performing Arts, and all the classroom teachers for their support and guidance.

Lisa Sexton

Assistant Principal – Head of Junior School

Year 1 Excursion

Last week our excited Year 1 students, along with their teachers and wonderful parent helpers embarked on an excursion to the Tea Tree Gully Heritage Museum. As part of our Inquiry, we have been learning about the past and how this helps us to understand the present and imagine the future. There was a buzz of excitement as students engaged in three rotational experiences, where they were transported back in time. These included learning about washing practices, enjoying old games and toys, and even attending school! The girls were fascinated by how much has changed in our lives. For example, a long time ago there was no electricity which made everyday responsibilities tricky; there was no such things as a washing machine, it all had to be done by hand. While the students relished the opportunity to experiment using the washing boards, handmade soaps, machinery and old irons, they all agreed it was much easier to do laundry in the present.

It was fantastic to discover that many of the old games and toys are still those which we love and enjoy today, such as skipping and dominos, although the ‘hookey’ game and quoits were a real treat... despite being quite the challenge!

A clear favourite for all students however, had to be attending the old school. There was excited chatter and smiles as students were informed they had to enter school while marching to the beat of the drum, and before any formal learning occurred, the teacher would inspect each students hands to check they were clean. This led to rich dialogue about how children had many important chores that needed to be done before school began; such as tending to their animals. While students did discover many similarities between their own schooling experience and the past; there are many learning areas which we still encounter today.

Miss Georgia Eliades

R-6 Teacher

Year 4 Maths and Science

Our Year 4 students embarked on an exciting Maths and Science project, combining their creativity with practical problem-solving skills. The challenge was to design a dog run and a waterproof doghouse for a dog up for adoption from the RSPCA. The dog run needed to have a perimeter of 36 metres, requiring students to calculate both the perimeter and area to ensure their design met the criteria. In addition to their mathematical calculations, students also explored the properties of materials to determine the best options for constructing a durable and waterproof doghouse. This project not only reinforced their understanding of area and perimeter but also highlighted the importance of selecting appropriate materials for specific purposes.

Ms Catherine Boots