Focus on Learning

We were delighted to welcome our newest members of the St Joseph's community to our school for the Kinder Readiness Program last Friday for a whole day.  The Program is designed to provide a 'taste' of big school in a the Kindergarten classroom with children participating in a variety of school activities from Religion, English and Mathematics lesson to Creative Arts, Science, History, Geography and PD/H/PE.

The structure of the day mirrors that of a regular Kindergarten day, with a few adjustments, allowing for children to explore the classroom, learn about the different staff members who are here at St Joseph's and in our community to help, and get to know each other in a fun, colourful and engaging environment.  We are also very fortunate to work closely with a local speech pathologist who provides simple language development activities that can be individualised as we get to know our beautiful Kinder Readiness students.  It involves shaping our mouth for sound, questions and decision-making, predictions, forming whole sentences when speaking and watching and learning from each other.

Our day looks a little something like this:

Children were able to join with the current Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 students in celebrating Mass with Fr Vic and Fr Tuan.  It was an absolute privilege to witness their reverence, respect and general behaviour in St Brigid's Church.  Fr Vic visited the children later in the afternoon and asked them about the Mass and if they could remember what they needed to say to those who help us...'Thank you!'  

To encourage independence, the children are responsible for their own belongings when they are at school.  This means we are learning to choose only the items we need from our lunch boxes and remembering to pack these away neatly and tidily.  The children are also learning how to move around the school safely and quietly, using their manners when they greet someone and enjoying their playtime out on the playground.

The children have settled very well into their new school with lots of support and gentle guidance from their new friends...and wouldn't you know it...Kinder Readiness students received the Leader's Award for being polite and friendly in their new school environment!