Year 5/6 News

Fraction Fun in Mathematics  

In the first week of Term 2, our students launched straight into learning all about fractions. We began by exploring how to locate fractions on a number line, helping us understand the size and value of different fractions in relation to whole numbers. We then moved on to adding fractions with dissimilar denominators, which challenged us to find the lowest common multiple before solving. 

Students also practiced converting mixed numbers to improper fractions and improper fractions back to mixed numbers, giving them more flexibility in how they solve problems involving fractions. 

To support our learning beyond the classroom, students have been using Mathletics during weekends and for homework to consolidate these skills. 

"At first I found it tricky to find the common denominator, but now I can do it quickly!" – Aarav  

"I like changing mixed numbers into improper ones—it feels like solving a puzzle!" – Fayha 

Learning to Explain the Wonders of Science 

This term, our students have been exploring explanation texts—learning how to organise their writing using clear structure, technical vocabulary, and logical sequencing. Understanding how explanation texts work is helping us write about our science experiments in a more informative and accurate way. 

Some of us investigated how rainbows form and discovered that sunlight contains many colours. By using prisms and observing light reflections, we found rainbow colours hidden in ordinary sunlight! We then applied our writing skills to create explanation reports, carefully describing the steps of this fascinating natural phenomenon. 

Through this learning, students are not only strengthening their writing skills but also deepening their curiosity and understanding of the world around them.

Year 5/6 Camp Iluka – Outdoor Adventures and Lasting Memories 

Our Year 5/6 students recently returned from a truly unforgettable experience at Camp Iluka, where over 50 excited students took part in a fun-filled week of outdoor learning, adventure, and personal growth. 

Nestled in a beautiful natural bushland setting, Camp Iluka provided the perfect backdrop for a wide range of hands-on activities designed to develop teamwork, confidence, and resilience. For many students, this was their first time being away from their parents, and an important step in learning to live independently, outside of their usual creature comforts. 

Some of the highlights of the week included: 

Stand-Up Paddleboarding 

This activity quickly became a student favourite — not just for the paddling, but for the thrill of jumping into the water, bellyflopping, and sharing laughs together. With life jackets always worn, students felt safe to explore the water and enjoy the experience to the fullest. 

Raft Building 

Raft building brought out everyone’s creativity and teamwork as students worked together to construct floating vessels using logs, ropes, and barrels. The biggest laughs came when rafts didn’t quite stay afloat — students loved becoming "human propellers," kicking behind their rafts to stay afloat and even win races! 

Canoeing 

Canoeing required strong communication and teamwork. Students learned how to use their paddles to move forward, reverse, and steer, working closely with their canoe partners to stay on track and make the most of the peaceful lake surroundings. 

Bush Cooking 

Students had the chance to experience cooking damper on an open fire, learning how to safely start a campfire and prepare their dough. The reward was sweet — tasting their warm, golden damper with syrup or jam was a delicious end to their efforts. 

Tree Climbing & Initiative Games 

Tree climbing allowed students to conquer personal fears and enjoy the thrill of height, while initiative games challenged their problem-solving and leadership skills through fun and fast-paced team challenges. 

Evenings and Shoreham Beach (last day) 

Evenings were packed with laughter and bonding — from game nights and a cosy movie night to the excitement of bunking with friends and forming new friendships. On the final day, students visited Shoreham Beach, where they built sandcastles, discovered white coral on the pristine shoreline, and reflected on an incredible week together. 

Throughout the week, our students consistently showed the school values of Respect, Responsibility, and Resilience. They supported each other, embraced every challenge with a smile, and made the most of every moment. 

A heartfelt thank you to Sean and Precious for their strong collaboration in leading and supporting students throughout the week. Their care, energy, and teamwork made a real difference. We’d also like to extend our sincere gratitude to Michael and his wife Kerry, who generously volunteered their time to support students and staff over two days. Their presence and kindness added a wonderful community spirit to our camp experience. 

Michael and Kerry

We would like to extend our deepest thanks to Michael and Kerry for their extraordinary support during our recent camp. From the moment they arrived, their warmth, generosity, and willingness to lend a hand brought comfort and joy to both staff and students alike. Whether it was helping with activities, sharing a kind word, or simply being present with a smile, they truly embodied the spirit of community and care. Their presence helped create a nurturing environment where students felt safe, supported, and inspired to try new things.

Michael and Kerry went above and beyond the expectations of any volunteer. Their tireless effort, thoughtful gestures, and quiet leadership did not go unnoticed. From early mornings to late evenings, they were always there—offering help, encouragement, and genuine kindness. Their contribution made a lasting impact on the success of our camp, and we are sincerely grateful for everything they did to make it such a meaningful and memorable experience.

ALL OF US AT CLAYTON NORTH PRIMARY SCHOOL, ESPECIALLY THE YEAR 5/6s. 

We are incredibly proud of all our students and deeply grateful to everyone who made this camp possible.