Early Learning Centre

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Reconciliation week at our ELC

Bridging Now to Next – A Journey of Unity, Faith, and Healing

During Reconciliation Week, our ELC children engaged in a rich sequence of intentional learning experiences that deepened their understanding of reconciliation through the themes of storytelling, faith, cultural identity, and community. Reconciliation Week, observed annually from 27 May to 3 June, was introduced to our Class Three Community through the theme “Bridging Now to Next.” This theme encouraged our children to reflect on their place within God's creation and their role in peacemaking and unity.

Our week began with a focus on the land, exploring what we see, hear, and find in nature. Through stories such as Special Land and Backyard Bugs, the children discovered how First Nations Peoples use symbols and drawings to tell stories and share knowledge. These sessions invited children to explore indigenous art forms, identify patterns, and reflect on the meanings conveyed through Aboriginal storytelling traditions. Using natural brushes made of different cuts of tree, branches and leaves and various mediums, the children created their own artworks inspired by the land, developing a deeper appreciation for the environment and how God uses creation to reveal His love.

On the second day, we explored Finding Our Heart by Thomas Mayo. The children revisited the Aboriginal flag and reflected on the meaning of each colour, prompting a key question: “Where can we find our heart?” The beautiful outdoor learning space provided the perfect setting for this inquiry. Children collected natural elements and used them in artistic representations of their thoughts and emotions. Inspired by the book and their surroundings, they brought treasures from nature into the classroom and shared how these items reminded them of their connection to God’s world and each other. Their natural findings, creativity, and thoughtful contributions reflected a growing sense of wonder, respect, and empathy.

Later in the week, the children studied and reflected on the official 2025 Reconciliation Week artwork, which features native flora and cultural symbols representing resilience, growth, and healing. This inspired them to create their own class posters. Using colours and shapes that represented unity and joy, each child contributed a unique element to the collaborative piece, reinforcing the idea that reconciliation begins when we work together and honour the diverse stories within our community. Our learners came together not only as classmates but as one united community guided by God’s love.

These experiences laid a strong foundation for our spiritual exploration of reconciliation. We introduced the characters Cat and Cloud Kimochi to help the children unpack feelings like sadness, anger, and loneliness. These characters became meaningful tools for discussing the emotional impact of conflict and the restorative power of forgiveness. Children reflected on how Jesus teaches us to love and forgive, helping them understand that reconciliation means healing relationships with others and with God.

One of the most powerful moments was the “Reconciliation Parachute” activity. As children worked together to lift, balance, and coordinate the parachute, they learned about the importance of unity, collaboration, and listening to one another. It was a symbolic and practical way to demonstrate the message that reconciliation requires teamwork, shared responsibility, and love. The joy and laughter shared during this activity mirrored the harmony that God desires for us all.

By embedding reconciliation through both cultural and faith-based practices, our learners were not just taught about reconciliation, they began to understand it. Through prayer, storytelling, art, and community, the children began to understand the profound love of God who, through Jesus, reconciled us to Himself. This week empowered our young learners to be peacemakers in their homes, classrooms, and communities. We are honoured to learn alongside them, guided by their hearts, their voices, and the light of Christ that shines through their kindness and creativity.

Learning Outcomes:

• Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity
  • They feel safe, secure, and supported.
  • They learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy, and respect.
• Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world
  • They respond to diversity with respect.
  • They become socially responsible and show respect for the environment.
• Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
  • They become aware of and develop strategies to regulate emotions.
  • They take increasing responsibility for their own physical and emotional wellbeing.
• Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners
  • They develop dispositions such as curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
  • They resource their learning through connecting with people, place, and materials.
• Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators
  • They engage with a range of texts and gain meaning from these.
  • They express ideas through creative arts and symbolic representation.

Principles:

• Secure, respectful and reciprocal relationships
• Respect for diversity
• Holistic approaches to teaching and learning
• High expectations and equity
• Partnerships with families and community
• Ongoing learning and reflective practice

From Class Three Community Team

Mrs Ruddock, Mrs Habib. Mrs Ling, Mrs Flynn, Miss Wiese, Miss Bell, Miss Wong, Mrs K Miss Tiffany & Miss Chloe

Our BIGGEST morning tea helping to raise money for those who are sick 🍵

This week in ELC, we held our first-ever Biggest Morning Tea to raise money for those who are sick. 

The parents offered their time by preparing a beautiful spread of morning tea, including fruits and healthy snacks. We set up the breezeway with tables and chairs, seating all our Class 3 and Preschool friends together. 

Mr Linke led us in a responsive prayer, and we got to take some photos with a special social frame!

We pray the funds raised from the Morning Tea will help people in our community who are sick so they can get better soon and fund much needed research.