2024 Newsletter Term 04 | Issue 02

— Corinne, Anniebelle, Nina, Sarah.

Over the last 2 weeks in Burbangana, the children created their own maps featuring local landmarks such as parks, libraries, and hospitals. This hands-on activity culminated with the children mapping out the farmhouse playground and engaging in an object “hunt”.

To further enrich the children’s mapping activities, we introduced road signs and initiated discussions on road safety, helping them understand traffic symbols and the importance of staying safe on the roads.

In art and cultural studies, we introduced the children to the work of Henri Matisse and Piet Mondrian.  They also immersed themselves in learning about Indigenous symbols. They expressed their knowledge through tactile and hands-on experiences such as sand tray markings, constructing with natural materials, tracing, and crafting artworks on whiteboards.

Finally, we celebrated ‘Grandparents and Special Friends’ day and learned more about the traditions surrounding Diwali. Harshitha demonstrated how she dresses in her special sari and also provided beautiful terracotta tea light holders for the children to paint.

Kindly yours,

– Vanessa, Teresa and Katherine.

This year, the Cooinda children have been exploring primary and secondary colours, shapes, and forms through a variety of art activities thoughtfully planned to encourage their creativity and eagerness to express themselves through art and craft. To bring together all these concepts and experiences, this term we began exploring artists such as Henri Matisse and Piet Mondrian, and next week, we will introduce the work of Wassily Kandinsky.

The children have been wonderfully creative and have enjoyed experimenting with techniques such as painting, tracing lines, mixing primary colours, making collages, and gluing shapes to create unique compositions. It has been amazing to observe their talents and creativity, and we’re delighted to provide opportunities for them to learn about these artists, their stories, and their beautiful artwork.

—Jo, Catalina, Rachel, Yuko and Claire.

—Dawn.

The past few weeks have been full of exciting activities and learning experiences for the students at Yani. One of the highlights has been the start of our surfing lessons in Manly. Despite the not-ideal weather, the children have embraced the opportunity to learn about water safety, including how to identify rips and currents. During the most recent session, after successfully completing a swimming test, the students eagerly learned the fundamental steps of surfing and bodyboarding. It was lovely to see them encouraging and helping each other as they ventured into the water for the first time.

In addition to our outdoor adventures, we celebrated Grandparents and Special Friend’s Day, a beloved event that brought our community together. The children were proud to showcase their work and share their classroom experiences with their loved ones. The event was filled with joy, as families spent quality time together, enjoying a light morning tea and engaging in conversations about the students’ achievements and projects. This day was a wonderful reminder of the strong connections that enhance our learning environment.

Back in the classroom, the older students have been immersed in the study of electricity and magnetism. They have been enthusiastic about learning how circuits work and experimenting by building their own. Through hands-on activities and collaborative projects, students are developing a deeper understanding of how electricity powers everyday devices. This exploration into science has sparked curiosity and excitement, adding another layer of engagement to their academic journey.

—Laura, Thomas, Ella & Amy Louise.