Junior School news

What a joy it was to welcome all the Junior School students last week in person to a shiny new school year at Shelford. The students arrived looking smart and ready to learn in their school uniforms. This was a good thing, because their very first day was photo day, which ran smoothly thanks to the students’ excellent cooperation and the photographers’ professional skills. I’m sure you’re looking forward to seeing your children’s photos as much as we are.

In fitting with the bizarre anomalies of COVID times, all students were given Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT) a part of their welcome to the 2022 school year. 

To keep our community safe, we ask that you support your children:

• in taking a RAT twice a week
• provide them with masks to wear while indoors at school, and 
• keep them home if they are unwell. 

What interesting stories they will be able to tell their children and grandchildren about what became the ‘norm’ when they were at school!

Our first Junior School assembly took place on Monday under the very capable leadership of our school captains, Chloe and Amy. We were treated to a cello solo by talented JS Performing Arts Captain, Jocelyn, who played Study No. 27 from 40 Studies by Dotzauer beautifully.

After doing an excellent job of settling into their new classrooms, meeting some new teachers, and spending happy times with old and new friends, the students ended a busy first week with a visit to the chapel.

To inform their teachers of your children’s learning needs, we will be conducting a variety of assessments in literacy and numeracy.

Congratulations all Junior School students and families for making such a positive start to our 2022 learning year!

Prep & Year 1

The Prep and Year 1 students started the year with confidence and with smiles on their faces. They were happy to reconnect with their friends and Mrs Walker. After reading the mentor text, Possum Goes to School they went on a tour around Shelford to find the very cheeky possum. After visiting the Library, the Hood, the playground and the art room, in the end, they found him in Ms Cutajar's office. Following this they had a very special visit with Mrs Brennan in her office. It was a hot, but very happy beginning to the year!

Year 2

The Year 2s may have the same teacher and be in the same classroom, but they have definitely started the school year with a Can do, I’m in Year 2 attitude! Together the students wrote and signed a class contract, with an emphasis on treating each other with kindness, and approaching their work with a growth mindset. The Great Coles Van Hunt continues, with some new ones sighted over the summer break. 

The highlight of the first week back at school was meeting our Year 6 buddies and getting to know them while walking to Chapel.

Year 3

Year 3 students have settled into their new classroom and have thoroughly enjoyed being back at school and seeing their friends again. The first week was a wonderful opportunity to get to know everyone who is new to our class, as well as engaging in collaborative learning activities. Students participated in creating our classroom contract and discussed important guidelines and expectations to follow in our classroom this year. We also wrote a personal letter to ourselves to read at the end of the year, outlining our hopes, goals and expectations for 2022.

Year 4

Our Year 4 students have transitioned into the new school year with ease. We began the term with a brainstorm on what an ‘ideal’ classroom feels, looks and sounds like. Students collaborated on a class contract with the major themes of kindness and respect and decided on the class goal to actively listen with our ears, minds and hearts.

Year 5

It was delightful to welcome sunny, happy faces to Year 5 last week. The students have been busy setting up their learning spaces and getting to know new friends. They have transitioned well to split Year 5 classrooms and enjoy learning both together as a whole Year 5, and separately as 5A and 5B. We have been impressed with their kindness and inclusiveness and look forward to a wonderful year together.

Year 6

Our new school leaders were excellent role models of how to begin the learning year and establish a positive classroom community. Both Year 6 classes co-created documents that detail the behaviours and shared expectations that will support their collaborative and harmonious learning environments. First week highlights included meeting and making new friends, specialist classes, and beginning their class novels, Nanberry by Jackie French. Without doubt, however, the most exciting event was meeting their JDC buddies.

The Lion King Jr

* SAVE THE DATE*

Wednesday 22 June at 7pm 

Thursday 23 June at 7pm 

It is with much anticipation and excitement that we bring to you The Lion King Jr on 22 and 23 June. Please save the date in your diary. We will be presenting two shows to our community to celebrate the talents and hard work of the Junior School. Tickets will be available in Term 2.

All students in the Junior School will be busily rehearsing their class songs throughout the term. Please find class songs under the Junior School Musical page on Shelly (under groups).

JDC: Jungle Animals/Bugs 

Year 3 and 4: Savannah Animals 

Year 5: Hyenas

Year 6: Lionesses 

I will of course be in regular communication with you regarding costuming and other important matters. Please celebrate The Lion King Jr. with your families and spread the word as we capture your imagination and bring you to the African safari.

Best wishes,

Ms Nyhuis

Parent Information Night reminder

Tonight at 7pm will include information about 5/6 camp.

Vicky Gemmell, Head of Junior School – Student Wellbeing and Development

Jacqui Sidaway, Head of Junior School – Curriculum and Innovation