Wellbeing and Inclusion

Community Connections

On Thursday the1st of September, Karoo Primary School was all abuzz.  In the afternoon the school was filled with students, their fathers and special people engaging in games, activities and enjoying a slice or two of delicious pizza.  The occasion was a chance for our community to come together to celebrate the fathers and special people in our lives.  It was an outstanding success! 

A HUGE thank you to Robyn Howard, Janna Wright, Serryn Bryant, Tony and Kristy Khouri, Rob Elliott, Joy and Anthony Edwards and Nicole Glancy, Sue Baxter and Rebecca Barton for organising the afternoon, as well as a BIG thank you to all parents and teachers who supported them and helped on the evening.  It is only through the efforts of all those that work so hard behind the scenes that these special events become a reality.  Thank you Karoo Community!

I would also like to acknowledge and thank Alison T, Rhi and Kara and all amazing helpers for organising and running the Father's Day stall.  The stall was a great success, with many of our students taking time to deliberate over their gift choice, to make sure it was just right for their special person!  I am sure many felt very appreciated on the morning of Sunday the 4th of September. 

A Conversation that can Change a Life

R U OK? On Thursday the 8th of September, Karoo PS celebrated 'RUOkay? Day' by wearing a touch of yellow. The day is a reminder to inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with the  people around them and start a conversation with those in their world about how they are feeling.  You don't need to be an expert to reach out - just a good friend and a great listener. 

Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life:

Wellbeing Skills Programs

Karoo Primary School recognises the importance of all children’s social and emotional wellbeing and the need to support our students in developing these key skills. As a result we offer the opportunity for students to participate in Wellbeing Skills programs being run by our Wellbeing staff. The sessions are run weekly, contain approximately 4/5 students of a similar age and are delivered by trained Karoo staff. The Wellbeing Skills programs focus on developing strategies for 'Anxiety and Worry' and 'Social Skills.'  These programs are open to all students and are a great opportunity for everyone to develop skills for life.  If you would like to find out more information about the programs or if you would like you child to participate, please speak to your child's teacher or myself.

Circle Time 

Circle Time is used in all classrooms at Karoo Primary School. It is a time to encourage listening, talking, and sharing among Karoo students and an opportunity for teachers and students to model respectful interactions. Circle time also encourages the development of social skills, building of respectful relationships and an understanding of the Karoo School Values. This is achieved through structured social interactions, circle time games and students lead discussions.

The benefits of Circle Time for each class enables students of all ages, at their own level, to reflect on aspects of their lives, to discuss moral and social issues and to express with confidence their understanding of right and wrong and their sense of justice. Pupils learn to listen to others, to be tolerant of other viewpoints and to respect fellow pupils.

Respectful Relationships

At Karoo we learn everyday how to work together and support others.  As educators we support your children to learn strategies to support themselves and their peers, as well as apply these strategies in different situations in a structured and supportive environment.

The learning session begins with circle time and the students co-constructing the learning intention.  In a Year 1 classroom, the students identified that they are learning to practise skills to help their friends.  To know how they are successful the students crafted the following success criteria, with support.  

- I can recognise when someone needs help.

- I can choose the best strategy to use to help someone.

- I can provide help to someone if they need it.

The year 1 students then worked together to act out scenarios and demonstrate the success criteria.  The students finally reflected and discussed the most effective strategies to use to support their peers.  

Supporting Parents

Parentzone is offering a range of programs and support groups for interested parents during Term 4.  The programs are free of charge, however bookings are essential. Please click on the links below for further information:

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday and look forward to seeing you all in Term 4!

Mrs Hoffmann