Williamstown Campus  News

Thanks to our marvellous library team for this display of great reads.   

All titles are available for borrowing from the Library.  There is nothing better than escaping the cold weather with a good book that transports you to another place or time. Happy reading! 

Japanese Culture with Onigiri-Making Experience

The last week of Term 2, our Year 7 students enjoyed a hands-on cultural experience as part of their studies on Japanese traditions and cuisine. The highlight of the term? Learning how to make onigiri – Japan’s iconic rice balls!

The room transformed into a mini-Japanese kitchen. For many, it was their first time tasting or preparing Japanese food. Students were rolling up their sleeves and trying their hand at shaping warm rice into triangular or round onigiri. Alongside the cooking, students learned about the cultural significance of onigiri in Japanese daily life from lunchboxes to picnics and how simple foods can hold deep meaning.

The activity encouraged curiosity, creativity, and cultural appreciation. A big thank you to our students for participating in this special workshop and embracing the experience with such enthusiasm.

We look forward to more delicious cultural experience in the future!

おいしいおにぎりが出来ました！We made delicious onigiri!

Building Reading Fluency

In Year 7 English classes this term, we have had a big focus on students becoming more fluent readers.

Reading fluency means being able to read smoothly, accurately, and with expression. As students move into secondary school, they’re expected to read more complex texts in every subject. When reading is fluent, it frees up brain space to focus on learning, thinking critically and engaging with the content. Without it, reading can feel like hard work, which can impact confidence.

What we’re doing in English classes:

· Reading regularly - independently, with partners, in book clubs and as a whole class

· Promoting reading for pleasure in our fortnightly library borrowing sessions

· Building reading stamina and self-monitoring skills

· Improving expression, phrasing and pace

· Expanding vocabulary

How you can help at home:

Small, regular habits can make a huge difference.

· Encourage at least 20 minutes of reading each day (books, magazines, news articles - whatever your child enjoys).

· Ask your child what they’re reading and chat about it.

· Take turns reading aloud or listen to an audiobook together.

· Let them see you reading too, as it sets a great example.

Thank you for your support in helping our students grow into confident, capable readers.

If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with your child’s English teacher.