Wonder

WONDER TURNS 1

Killester’s innovative Wonder Program was ushered into the world on February 3, 2022.  Like any newborn baby, it was uncertain of its new surroundings yet eager to start living and breathing new life and vitality.  After a long period of gestation, its Killester parents were eager to hold and nurture their new member of the curriculum family.

In the early weeks, Wonder was reliant on its parents - the amazingly enthusiastic Wonder staff - for guidance as they explored new opportunities available to them.   They started small, introducing themselves to the other members of its family - including the Killester buildings and Killester alumni.  The parents were thrilled with the smiles and engagement exhibited on Thursdays.  Slowly, the no longer newborn was beginning to find its voice.

In Term 2 it was time to experiment with new foods - Italy, Indonesia, the Olympics, the World of Careers becoming the focus of its attention.  With newfound strength and confidence, Wonder began to explore new and creative ways of presenting their work.  Kitchens were used to develop exciting foods.  Roller coasters were designed using Physics and Aerodynamics.  A whole new world of possible future careers was explored. Wonder’s voice was becoming stronger and more strident. 

Term 3 was when Wonder began to discover the joy of movement.  No longer content to stay in one position, the Year 7 and 8 students joined forces to test the boundaries of Reality Television.  No corner was safe.  But rather than baby proof the surroundings, parents gave Wonder free reins to encourage limitless exploration.  Some ventured to Springvale, others to Chadstone, others to the RSPCA.  Each venture into the wider outdoors allowed Wonder to develop strength and confidence.  Grandparents - the parents of Year 9 students - were proud when Wonder presented an Information Forum on significant social issues (eg safe partying, vaping, effects of alcohol consumption and healthy relationships) in the Springvale Town Hall.

Before we knew it, Wonder was drawing close to its first birthday.  As proud parents, Wonder staff were able to sit back proudly and admire how much they had grown.  Year 7 & 8 students had the opportunity to find their own feet through the creation of Passion Projects.  Year 9 students ventured into the Melbourne CBD on 3 occasions, developing a series of walking tours that celebrated all that our wonderful city has to offer.  Wonder was clearly ready to walk.

So who knows what the next twelve months has in store for Wonder.  As a confident toddler, Wonder will continue to develop and grow.  It will build on its successes of this year.  It will adapt and find new and different ways of exploring its surroundings.  Important skills will be further developed.

And Killester Wonder staff couldn’t be prouder.

So HAPPY BIRTHDAY WONDER!