Spotlight on Learning
Spotlight on Learning
In today’s digital world, where so much communication happens on screens, the importance of handwriting remains as strong as ever. Handwriting supports the development of fine motor skills, strengthens letter-sound connections and helps students to become more confident readers and writers. When children form letters correctly and fluently, they are able to focus more on their ideas rather than the mechanics of writing, which leads to greater success across all learning areas.
In Year 1, students participate in daily spelling and handwriting practice. This provides regular opportunities to build correct letter formation, spacing and pencil grip, while also reinforcing the spelling patterns we are learning in our phonics lessons. Consistent practice helps students develop neat, legible writing and encourages pride in their work.
In addition to our daily practice, we have a special handwriting focus each week on a specific letter. During these sessions, students learn the correct starting point, formation and placement of the letter and practise it in words and simple sentences. This explicit and structured approach helps to build strong habits and ensures that students develop a clear and consistent handwriting style.
By valuing and practising handwriting every day, we are equipping students with a lifelong skill that supports communication, learning and creativity.
Welcome to our 2026 Language Leaders
Click here or below to see the video from our 2026 Language Leaders.
Hello! Our names are Kiyara and Neve, and we are the Language Leaders.
Why do you enjoy Auslan?
Kiyara – I enjoy learning Auslan for multiple reasons. First, it is cool to learn how to interact and chat with people who can’t hear. Second, I like learning new signs with Mrs Carson who can explain it to me in ways I understand. Third, I like the activities to revise and connect my learning.
Neve – I like learning new Auslan vocabulary through fun signed stories. I love learning a language that I can use to communicate with Deaf people – and also the fact that it’s a secret from those who don’t know how to use it to communicate.
What is your favourite sign?
Kiyara – My favourite sign has always been ‘rainbow’, from the very first time that I learnt it in Prep. I like how it is visual and uses so much movement across the body. I also love the sign for ‘prawn’.
Neve– I have 2 favourites; ‘turtle’ and ‘prawn’, because they are cute and easy to sign.
What is a myth about signing you wish you could eliminate?
Kiyara– I wish people would not assume that Auslan is international because it is actually specific to Australia. I also don’t like it when people assume that all Deaf people are unable to speak. Or that if a person can speak, that they must be hearing.
Neve– It would be great if more people understood that there are variations of signs between the different states of Australia too.
Why do you think everyone should learn Auslan?
Kiyara – Deaf people can’t always communicate with the wider community. Everyone should learn Auslan so they can communicate – especially in an emergency situation.
Neve – It would be wonderful if everyone learned Auslan to ensure that all Deaf people can make friends and so that Deaf people have the same opportunities as others.
Congratulations to our Students of the Week!
Term 1 , Week 4
Term 1, Week 5
