Principal's Report

Autumn Beginnings in the Heart of Mparntwe

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we settle into Term 2, the season is making itself felt in beautiful ways—cooler mornings, softer light, and the gentle quiet that descends as we move deeper into the heart of Central Australia's Autumn. We have had a slightly staccato start—bookended by the Easter long weekend and ANZAC Day—but despite these interruptions, there is a sense of settling beginning to take hold across the school. The children are leaning into their rhythms, finding joy in familiar activities and the growing calm of the season.

Early Childhood – Living in the Season

In our Cassia Transition classes bush walks will begin next week, and inside the classroom, activities such as beeswax modelling, finger knitting, and seasonal songs invite them into a deeper connection with the natural world.

The cooler days are perfect for bread making, cubby-building, and warming soups shared around the table. These simple, nourishing activities continue to support sensory integration, imagination, and a deep sense of security. The children are guided through stories and puppet plays that gently echo the turning of the seasons, helping them build inner images and a sense of belonging in the world.

Primary School – Building Knowledge and Growing Through Experience

In the Primary School (Classes 1–6), the term has begun with a strong sense of purpose:

• Class 1 is continuing to learn letters and numbers through fairy tales, movement, and drawing.
• Class 3 is exploring shelter, farming, and practical life through building and gardening—activities that naturally connect to the season.
• Class 5 is deep in botany studies, learning about plant life with a special emphasis on native desert flora, often supported by bush walks and sketching. Their Larapinta Trail training walks—complete with packs and new shoes—are well underway, building resilience, strength, and connection to place.

This term also sees the return of Interschool Sports NT, and several of our primary and middle students are excited to be participating. This program brings together schools from across the Territory, offering children the chance to engage in a variety of athletic disciplines in a fun, inclusive environment. It’s a celebration of teamwork, courage, and school spirit, and we look forward to seeing our students shine.

Middle School – Real-World Thinking and Independence

In Classes 8–9, students are engaging with the world in increasingly complex ways. This term brings subjects like physiology, geology, and revolutions in history—all designed to meet the maturing adolescent with material that resonates both academically and emotionally.

Class 8 & 9 have begun preparing for their camp, which continues to support the development of independence, resilience, and meaningful social connection beyond the classroom. 

Looking Back to Look Ahead

We are currently compiling our Annual General Meeting (AGM) Report, a time to reflect on the journey of the past year. 2024 was a year of significant change, particularly in staffing across Early Childhood, Primary, and Middle School. These transitions have brought with them new ideas, experiences, and approaches, and we’re deeply grateful for the way our staff, students, and families have embraced the evolving shape of our community.

Through all of this, what grounds us is rhythm. Whether in the quiet rituals of Early Childhood, the stories and movement of Primary, or the questioning spirit of Middle School—Steiner education offers a steady thread that supports children to grow in confidence, curiosity, and care.

Quote:

“The small child learns by doing. Through imitation, rhythm, and warmth, we nurture their will and wonder.” – Rudolf Steiner

Warm regards,

Dina