Tag Archive | term overview

Term 4 overview

Welcome to Term 4! Below is an overview of some of the opportunities and learning programs students will be involved in. Remember to visit the OC Events page, as I will be updating it throughout the term when dates and information become available.

CEP Outdoor Digital Media Festival

This annual event showcases short films from all 17 schools in our local cluster. Tickets will be on sale later this term for this great event, held on Thursday 29th November. There’s lots of entertainment, food, drink and a performance from our aerobics team. Don’t miss the premiere of our entry ‘The Most Awesome Film Ever’. We are going to begin filming this Friday, so remember to bring your costume. Make sure you visit our fundraising stall where we will be selling popcorn and slushies.

Thinkfest

Students have begun working on their Thinkfest projects for this term. Thinkfest is an OC event where students work in groups on a problem from a key learning area. For each problem, students have to write and perform a skit, create a backdrop, design a key prop, maintain a visual process diary and film a short trailer.

In Week 7, Jewells PS is hosting this year’s Thinkfest event, with OCs from around the region attending. A note will be sent home later this term once the details are finalised.

 

Homework

Homework for students begins this week (Week 2). Included in our homework menu this term, students will have the option to work on their Thinkfest project for additional points.  This term’s speaking and listening task is free choice and has also been sent home (due in Week 4).

Mastery Core Value

This term students have the opportunity to earn mastery ribbons for all 3 core values – Respect, Responsibility and Quality. Our Hall of Fame assembly will be on Monday Week 9. Students who have achieved Hall of Fame in all 3 core values this year will also be invited to a special end of year reward day.

Reading

This term students will be taking part in Literature Circle using the texts Holes, When You Reach Me, Z for Zachariah and Taronga.

Our whole class novel study this term is A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness.

Students will also be completing a personal reading project this term based on a novel of their choosing. Can’t wait to share with you what we create!

As we’re approaching the end of the year, it’s a great time for students to think about completing their OC Reading Challenge.

Well done to everyone who took part in this year’s Premier’s Reading Challenge. Our certificates will be arriving soon and I will present these at our weekly assembly.

OC Book Club

A note will be sent home this week about our end of year book- a beautiful story by Katherine Applegate called The One and Only Ivan.

Well done to everyone who read our last novel, How to Bee.

Writing

This term students have the opportunity to take part in NaNoWriMo – National Novel Writing Month – which kicks off in November. Students have the opportunity to set a word count goal and write their very own original novel. Can’t wait to see all the exciting ideas!

Mathematics

One of our major projects this term is to create a poster for the Statistical Society of Australia National Poster competition. We started this project last term and students have been busy working in groups, writing surveys and collecting data. Once the research and data collection is complete, students will create a poster to present their findings and hopefully prove their hypothesis.

Well done to everyone for their fantastic efforts in the APSMO Maths Games and Olympiads last term. Our final results have been sent in and we should be receiving our awards and trophies soon!

Other content we will be looking at later this term includes area, chance, patterns and algebra and time.

Geography

Mrs Derricott will be teaching our Geography unit this term – A Diverse and Connected World: Trade.

Science

This term our unit is Evolution and Adaptation. During this unit students will be exploring the science of evolution by way of Natural Selection. They will have the opportunity to investigate genetics and learn how species have evolved to develop specific traits specific to their niche (environment).

 

Events

There are lots of events and excursions taking place this term!

We have the P&C Fete taking place on Friday 9th November and it’s shaping up to be amazing!

We are organising a special end of year reward day for all Stage 3 to the movies and Revolution on Monday 17th December

Year 5 students will be participating in our student leadership program later this term in preparation for the selection of our 2019 student leaders. Parents and families are invited to watch their leadership speeches on Thursday 6th December.

Our class will be hosting our weekly assembly in Week 6 as well as sharing some work. All welcome to attend!

Our annual Carols evening will take place on Thursday 6th December.

Presentation Day will be held at the new Grainery Church on Tuesday 11th December.

Our Year 5/6 students will receive their invitations in the coming weeks for the Year 6 Farewell, which will also be held at the Grainery on Thursday 13th  December. (Year 6 – please bring in your kindy photo so we can scan it for our farewell presentation)

Finally, well done to all the students who have had a terrific start to the term and for their excellent effort and commitment to all the projects we’ve got taking place.

Term 3 Overview

Welcome to Term 3! Quite possibly the busiest term of the year! Below is an overview of some of the opportunities and learning programs students will be involved in. Remember to visit the OC Events page, as I will be updating it throughout the term when dates and information become available.

 

Homework

Homework for students began last week (Week 2). Included in our homework menu this term, students will have the option to work on past papers for the Newcastle Permanent maths competition which is coming up in a few weeks. This term’s speaking and listening task has also been sent home and is due in Week 6.

Class Needs

It’s that time of year when many students need to replenish materials and equipment. Please encourage your child to bring the required equipment each day, particularly glue sticks, USB, headphones and pens. 

Mastery Core Value

This term we are focusing on the core value of Quality. Students who achieve 5 mastery ribbons will be inducted into our Hall of Fame during our special assembly on Monday Week 9.

Reading

This term students will be conducting a novel study of Animal Farm by George Orwell. Animal Farm is an allegorical novella, first published in 1945. The book reflects events leading up to the Russian Revolution and then on into the Stalinist era of the Soviet Union.

We will be continuing to use our School Magazines to record our Reader’s Theatre podcasts – for your listening pleasure. This is also a fabulous opportunity for students to develop their reading fluency, voice skills and expression (plus the occasional accent!)

OC Book Club

A note has been sent home about our term 3 book. Given how well students responded to The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne, this term they have the opportunity to read his latest novel The Boy at the Top of the Mountain.

Well done to everyone who read last term’s novel, Words in Deep Blue by Cath Crowley. We will meet to discuss this soon.

Writing

This term our major focus is on informative texts. Students will be learning about a variety of devices used to create effective informative texts.

Mathematics

During our maths sessions, students will be covering a variety of different strands. The maths content we will be covering this term includes: Angles, Fractions & Decimals, Volume & Capacity, Mass, Patterns & Algebra, Chance, Length, Area and Data. Students will continue their participation the in annual Maths Olympiad and Maths Games– 2 to go! So far, students have been doing a terrific job solving these challenging problems. Students also have the opportunity to access past Olympiad papers as part of the homework options.

The ICAS Maths competition is coming up in Week 4 and the Australian Maths competition is on this Friday for students who have paid. All students in Year 5 and 6 will take part in the Newcastle Permanent Maths competition in Week 5.

Well done to our students who took part in the Maths Challenge for Young Australians (MCYA) at the end of last term. They did a great job working cooperatively in a small group, developing their problem solving skills to complete a range of difficult scenarios. Our results have been submitted and students will receive their awards at our assembly tomorrow.

Throughout this term we will also have Dr Elena Prieto come in to work with us on the Statistical Society of Australia National Poster competition which is a project-based learning opportunity where students create an informative poster based on the collection and interpretation of data that addresses a practical research question. Can’t wait to see what they come up with this year!

Premier’s Reading Challenge

Well done to the students who are taking part in this year’s challenge and who have been entering their books online. There’s not long to go – all reading logs need to be completed by Friday 31/8/18 (end of Week 6) for validation. Keep reading!!

Parent/Teacher Interviews

In weeks 6 and 7 we will be having parent/teacher interviews to discuss student progress and development. These interviews will also allow the opportunity to review student’s learning goals and future focus. The online booking system will again be used and information regarding this will be sent home in Week 4.

Excursions

In Week 10 this term we have our Stage 3 excursion to Canberra. Thank you to all the families who have finalised payments or have been making regular instalments. If you require assistance or have any questions, please let me know. A medical form will be sent home closer to the date for parents to complete.

The OC will also be taking part in the Science and Engineering Discovery Day in Week 7 Friday. This is one of the OC’s favourite events of the year and fingers crossed we can win again! Permission notes and information will be sent home later this term.

History

This term students have commenced learning about the topic Federal Government.  Students have the opportunity to explore the principles of Australian democracy and explain its development over time. They will investigate significant events in Australia’s past and explain the implications for the development of Australian identity, heritage, and cultural diversity. They will have opportunities to locate information from a variety of primary and secondary sources, presenting their findings in a range of ways.

Science

Mrs Derricott will be teaching our science unit this term: Product Design and Development. In this unit, students will learn about the design process, used by both inventors and engineers. The design process helps people think creatively about a problem and produce a successful result. Students will follow the design process steps to create/modify a product to fulfil a want/need. They will work in groups and record their progress with videos, images, recordings, and text throughout the term. There will be multiple opportunities for students to link their learning of the design process with their Informative Text focus in English.

 

Interrelate

Notes were sent home earlier this term with Year 6 students for the Interrelate program, Moving Into the Teen Years. The program will begin in Week 5 and cost $45 per student. It’s a very worthwhile program and despite some student reluctance/embarrassment I’m sure they’ll find it very informative and valuable.

 

Book Week

Our Book Week celebrations kick off in Week 8. Start thinking about your costume for this year’s theme Find Your Treasure! Be sure to visit Mrs Derricott’s Book Fair in our library which will officially open on Saturday 8th September. There are so many wonderful novels on the Children’s Book Council of Australia list this year for young readers and young adult, it’s a great time to buy some new books or donate one to our school. Visit the website at CBCA

Cluster Choir

Our senior choir have been busily rehearsing and learning new songs for this year’s Cluster Choir event. The performance evening, which takes place at Callaghan College Waratah Campus on Thursday 13th September, showcases the many choirs from our local schools and this year’s theme is Around the World, featuring classics from The Bangles, The Animals, The B-52s and many more.

 

Events

We are celebrating Education Week – Grandparents Day this Thursday 9th August beginning at 9.30am. Our amazing Stage 3 students will be leading an array of STEM activities, highlighting this year’s theme ‘Today’s schools – creating tomorrow’s world’. After our activities, you’re invited to join us for a BYO picnic lunch from 11.30am-12.30pm.

In Week 9 this term, students will be organising our Year 5/6 Fair which is a fun celebration day for all students and our major fundraising initiative for our Year 6 Farewell and school gift. Information about our Fair will be sent home soon.

Congratulations also to the students who have been selected to participate in the Creative Arts Camp this term. I’m sure they’ll have a brilliant experience.

Finally, well done to all the students who have had a wonderful start to the term and for their excellent effort, enthusiasm and application. Everyday in our classroom is a joy. Happy term 3!

Term 2 Overview

Welcome back to Term 2! It’s going to be another busy and exciting term with lots of events and opportunities taking place. Below is an overview of some of the activities students will be involved in.

Reading

This term students have begun studying our class novel The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne. They’re making great connections with the text and exploring the difficult subject matter in a mature and thoughtful way.

Our OC Book Club will meet at the end of the term. We are reading the text Words in Deep Blue by Cath Crowley, a beautiful story about life, love and books.

At the end of last term I purchased a whole range of new novels for our OC Class Library. It has been wonderful to see so many students borrowing and enjoying these and sharing their recommendations with others. Please encourage your child to choose a book to bring home if they haven’t done so already.

Writing

This term students will be learning about a variety of concepts and devices to enhance their writing skills and will use these to produce imaginative, informative and persuasive texts. Part of this process involves students sharing their work with peers for critiquing and publishing finished pieces of writing on their individual blogs.

Last term our students demonstrated great skill and flair for writing imaginative texts. This term our focus will move towards producing persuasive texts. I will continue to showcase quality examples on the blog.

Students are currently working on a writing project based on the visual text Small Things. We will also begin working on an entry for this year’s NESA Write On competition. 

Mathematics

During our maths sessions, students will work in group rotations. The maths content we will be covering this term includes: 2D Space, Fractions and Decimals, Volume and Capacity, Patterns and Algebra, Chance and Data, Whole Number and Time.

During this term and next, the OC will be participating the in annual APSMO Maths Olympiad and Maths Games program. The entry fee is $15 per student. Students are able to access past Olympiad papers as part of the homework options. The Olympiads are quite challenging, but a great way for students to develop their problem solving skills.

Students have also been enjoying taking taking part in Ken Ken puzzles, similar to Sudoku but more challenging, and I have added these to our weekly homework options.

Students invited to take part in the AMT Challenge will begin working on their problems later this term when notes/payment have been returned.

Excursions

The first event for OC students is the Interschool Chess Challenge, held tomorrow. Thank you to the parents who are helping out with transport.

In Week 4, our Year 5s are heading to a sports GALA day at Waratah Campus and our Year 6s are attending the GRIP Leadership Conference. 

We also have an excursion planned for Week 9 to the Sydney Jewish Museum in Darlinghurst as a culmination to our novel study of The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas. 

Homework

Homework for students began last week (Week 2). Again, homework consists of a choice menu, where you can negotiate with your child what activities to complete at home. There is a speaking and listening task for all students to complete – due Week 6. The top 3 speakers will be invited to compete in our Speak Off in Week 7. Parents/carers are invited to attend this event.

 

Geography

This term students will be covering the topic Climate Change with Mrs Derricott on Wednesdays. Students have the opportunity to investigate the causes and effects of climate change on the local and global environment. Students will learn about how to deal with this threat.

Science

Our unit this term is Extreme Weather Phenomena. Students will be learning about a range of extreme weather phenomena, their causes, their impact on humans and the Earth, and how their effects can be mitigated.

Sport

Congratulations to our PSSA Soccer and Netball teams representing our school each Friday. Students remaining at school will be taking part in the Aussie Hoops program. Thank you to the families who have already paid their $10 fee.

Our Athletics Carnival has also been rescheduled for the 6th June.

Writing Buddies

Last term our class worked with 3S for our Reading Buddies program. This term we will be doing Writing Buddies and I am looking forward to seeing them share their amazing writing skills with our younger students.

Children’s University

We are organising some fantastic opportunities for our Children’s University students this term. We will be having an after school session on Wednesday 30th May where students will take part in activities provided by the University as well as any keen parents or community members willing to share a skill or passion. There is also a Campus visit day for students to attend with a family member. Notes about this will be sent home on Tuesday at our CU Check In session at 1.15pm.

Events

The UNSW ICAS competitions begin this term. We had our Digital Technologies last week, Science in Week 5 and Writing and Spelling in Week 7. 

Our Hall of Fame assembly will take place on Monday afternoon in Week 10.

The OC will be hosting our Monday assembly in Week 9, 25th June at 11.40am. We’d love it if you could come along and join us. 

Our SRC will be organising a Disco to take place in Week 8 – Wednesday 20th June. Special guest DJ Mix-a-lot will be back! Tickets on sale soon.

We will be celebrating NAIDOC Day in the last week of this term with a special day of activities on the Friday and cultural events throughout the week.

Permission notes and information has been sent home about our Term 3 major excursion to Canberra. Payments can be made at the office or online.

Semester 1 reports will be sent home with students on the final day of term. 

Finally, well done to the students who have had a terrific start to the term. Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding OC learning programs or events.

Term 4 overview

Welcome to Term 4! It’s already been a busy and exciting few weeks, with lots more to come. Below is an overview of some of the opportunities and learning programs students will be involved in. Remember to visit the OC Events page, as I will be updating it throughout the term when dates and information become available.

CEP Outdoor Digital Media Festival

This annual event showcases short films from all 17 schools in our local cluster. Tickets are on sale before school for this great event, held on Thursday 9th November at Wallsend campus. There’s lots of entertainment, food, drink and a performance from our aerobics team. Don’t miss the premiere of our entry ‘The Other Side of the Door’. This year’s winning film wins a drone! Make sure you visit our fundraising stall where we will be selling popcorn and slushies.

Thinkfest

Students have begun working on their Thinkfest projects for this term. Thinkfest is an OC event where students work in groups on a problem from a key learning area. For each problem, students have to write and perform a skit, create a backdrop, design a key prop, maintain a visual process diary and film a short trailer.

In Week 7, New Lambton South PS is hosting this year’s Thinkfest event, with OCs from around the region attending. A note will be sent home later this term once the details are finalised.

Mini EV Solar Cart Festival

Our new solar cart kits have just arrived and students will begin designing and constructing their carts this week. The race day will again be held at Cameron Park Raceway on Wednesday 29th November. A note for this excursion will be sent home soon. Parents and families are very welcome to attend.

Homework

Homework for students began last week (Week 2). Included in our homework menu this term, students will have the option to work on their Thinkfest project for additional points.  This term’s speaking and listening task is free choice and has also been sent home (due in Week 6).

Mastery Core Value

This term students have the opportunity to earn mastery ribbons for all 3 core values – Respect, Responsibility and Quality. Our Hall of Fame assembly will be on Monday Week 9. Students who have achieved Hall of Fame in all 3 core values this year will also be invited to a special end of year reward day.

Reading

This term students will be concluding their Literature Circle for Bridge to Terabithia, Flora & Ulysses, Once and Parvana. We will then move on to our whole-class novel, Mao’s Last Dancer (Young Reader’s Edition).

We will hopefully get to share some more Reader’s Theatre podcasts.

As we’re approaching the end of the year, it’s a great time for students to think about completing their OC Reading Challenge.

Well done to everyone who took part in this year’s Premier’s Reading Challenge. Our certificates will be arriving soon and I will present these at our weekly assembly.

OC Book Club

A note will be sent home this week about our end of year book- a fun adventure story by Matthew Reilly called Troll Mountain.

Well done to everyone who read our last novel, A Wrinkle in Time.

Writing

This term we’ve begun a new writing challenge (#OCWC), with a mixture of visual and vocabulary prompts. NaNoWriMo – National Novel Writing Month – kicks off in November. Students have the opportunity to set a word count goal and write their very own original novel. Can’t wait to see all the exciting ideas!

Mathematics

One of our major projects this term is to create a poster for the Statistical Society of Australia National Poster competition. We started this project last term and students have  been busy working in groups, writing surveys and collecting data. Once the research and data collection is complete, students will create a poster to present their findings and hopefully prove their hypothesis.

Well done to everyone for their fantastic efforts in the APSMO Maths Games and Olympiads last term. Our final results have been sent in and we should be receiving our awards and trophies soon!

Other content we will be looking at later this term includes area, chance, patterns and algebra and time.

Geography

Miss Hibbert will be teaching our Geography unit this term – A Diverse and Connected World: Anthropology.

Science

This term our unit is The Structure and Function of Cities. During this unit students will explore different types of built environments, the systems that allow our society to function and the effect humans are having on the environment.

Colour Run

We’re having a whole-school fun run on Friday 17th November. Parents and families are very welcome to join in the fun at Islington Park. Well done to those who have already set up their sponsorship page and started raising money. There’s lots of great prizes available and the proceeds will go back to our school.

Events

There are lots of events and excursions taking place this term!

We have an incursion in Week 6 this term from the World of Maths roadshow. Notes went home today and the cost is $6 per student.

Mrs Bowman is organising an excursion for Stage 3 to go and see the film adaptation of one of our favourite novels – Wonder. This excursion will take place on Thursday 23rd November. Notes will be sent home soon.

Year 5 students will be participating in our student leadership program later this term in preparation for the selection of our 2018 student leaders. Parents and families are invited to watch their leadership speeches on Thursday 30th November.

Our class will be hosting our weekly assembly in Week 6 as well as sharing some work. All welcome to attend!

Our annual Carols evening will take place on Thursday 7th December.

Presentation Day will be held at the Grainery on Tuesday 12th December.

Our Year 5/6 students will receive their invitations in the coming weeks for the Year 6 Farewell, which will also be held at the Grainery on Thursday 14th  December. (Year 6 – please bring in your kindy photo so we can scan it for our farewell presentation)

 

Finally, well done to all the students who have had a fabulous start to the term and for their excellent effort and commitment to all the projects we’ve got taking place.

Term 3 Overview

Welcome to Term 3! Quite possibly the busiest term of the year! Below is an overview of some of the opportunities and learning programs students will be involved in. Remember to visit the OC Events page, as I will be updating it throughout the term when dates and information become available.

 

Homework

Homework for students began this week (Week 2). Included in our homework menu this term, students will have the option to work on past papers for the Newcastle Permanent maths competition which is coming up in a few weeks. This term’s speaking and listening task has also been sent home and is due in Week 6.

Class Needs

It’s that time of year when many students need to replenish materials and equipment. Please encourage your child to bring the required equipment each day, particularly glue sticks, USB, headphones and pens. We are also running low on tissues if you would like to donate a box.

Mastery Core Value

This term we are focusing on the core value of Quality. Students who achieve 5 mastery ribbons will be inducted into our Hall of Fame during our special assembly on Monday Week 10.

Reading

This term students will be conducting a guided novel study of Esty’s Gold by Mary Arrigan. This historical fiction novel supports our history topic and is about a young Irish girl and her family who survive the potato famine and make their way to Australia to find gold.

Students have also begun Literature Circles. As a result of their fantastic effort at the end of last term reading The Princess Bride, students earned the opportunity to select their own novels and groups to collaborate with. Our Literature Circle texts are Bridge to Terabithia, Flora & Ulysses, Once and Parvana. 4 very different but equally amazing stories.

We will be continuing to use our School Magazines to record our Reader’s Theatre podcasts – for your listening pleasure. This is also a fabulous opportunity for students to develop their reading fluency, voice skills and expression (plus the occasional accent!)

OC Book Club

A note will be sent home this week about our August book. It’s a surprise, but I’ll give you a clue – it’s a classic. I’m sure it’s a childhood favourite for lots of mums and dads and it is soon to be made into a movie starring Reese Witherspoon and Oprah Winfrey. Any ideas?

Well done to everyone who read (or is still reading) last month’s novel, Frogkisser by Garth Nix. We will meet to discuss this next week (I just have to finish it!!). I can’t wait to see what you all think.

Writing

This term our major focus is on informative texts. Students will be learning about a variety of devices used to create effective informative texts.

Students are also about to begin working on an imaginative piece of writing for this year’s NESA Write On competition. Our best entry will be submitted to represent our school for Stage 3.

Mathematics

During our maths sessions, students will work in groups, covering a different strand each week. The maths content we will be covering this term includes: Angles, Fractions & Decimals, Volume & Capacity, Mass, Patterns & Algebra, Chance, Length, Area and Data. Students will continue their participation the in annual Maths Olympiad and Maths Games– 3 to go! So far, students have been doing a terrific job solving these challenging problems. Students also have the opportunity to access past Olympiad papers as part of the homework options.

The ICAS Maths competition is coming up in Week 5 and the Australian Maths competition is on this Thursday for students who have paid. All students in Year 5 and 6 will take part in the Newcastle Permanent Maths competition in Week 6.

Well done to our students who took part in the Maths Challenge for Young Australians (MCYA) at the end of last term. They did a great job working cooperatively in a small group, developing their problem solving skills to complete a range of difficult scenarios. Our results have been submitted and students will receive their awards later this term.

Throughout this term we will also have Dr Elena Prieto come in to work with us on the Statistical Society of Australia National Poster competition which is a project-based learning opportunity where students create an informative poster based on the collection and interpretation of data that addresses a practical research question. Can’t wait to see what they come up with!

Premier’s Reading Challenge

Well done to the students who are taking part in this year’s challenge and who have been entering their books online. There’s not long to go – all reading logs need to be completed by Friday 25/8/17 (end of Week 6) for validation. Keep reading!!

Premier’s Spelling Bee

One of my favourite events – the Premier’s Spelling Bee – will be taking place next week! Information has been sent home for students who wish to participate. Parents and carers are very welcome to come along and watch the Spelling Bee! Students have been using the PSB senior list for the spelling focus these last 2 weeks in preparation for the event. The lists can also be accessed online.

Parent/Teacher Interviews

In weeks 6 and 7 we will be having parent/teacher interviews to discuss student progress and development. These interviews will also allow the opportunity to review student’s learning goals and future focus. The online booking system will again be used and information regarding this will be sent home in Week 4.

Excursions

In Week 8 this term is our Stage 3 excursion to the Great Aussie Bush Camp at Tea Gardens. Thank you to all the families who have finalised payments or have been making regular instalments. If you require assistance or have any questions, please let me know. A medical form will be sent home closer to the date for parents to complete.

The OC will also be taking part in the Science and Engineering Discovery Day in Week 8 Friday. This is one of the OC’s favourite events of the term – and yes, Week 8 is going to be exhausting! Permission notes and information will be sent home later this term.

History

This term students have commenced learning about the topic Australian Colonies.  Students have the opportunity to explore the influence of the discovery of gold on Australian identity, environment and heritage. The unit focuses on significant events, actions and people as well as lifestyles and perspectives of the people and groups living at that time.

Science

Miss Hibbert will be teaching our science unit this term: States and Properties of Matter.  Students will be able to investigate how changes in the state of everyday materials relate to the addition and removal of heat and classify the changes as reversible or irreversible.

Techno Buddies

Last term our class worked with 3AD for the Writing Buddies program. This term we will be focusing on technology where students will have the opportunity to share their technological skills with our younger students and create projects using our class iPads.

Interrelate

Notes were sent home on Monday with Year 6 students for the Interrelate program, Moving Into the Teen Years. The program will begin in Week 6 and cost $37 per student. It’s a very worthwhile program and despite some student reluctance/embarrassment I’m sure they’ll find it very informative and valuable.

SRC

Our Student Representative Council are organising a range of fundraisers this term including Jeans 4 Genes Day, Daffodil Day and a school disco.

Book Week

Our Book Week celebrations kick off in Week 9. Start thinking about your costume for this year’s theme Escape to Everywhere! Be sure to visit Mrs Derricott’s Book Fair in our library which will officially open on Saturday 9th September. There are so many fabulous novels on the Children’s Book Council of Australia list this year for young readers and young adult, it’s a great time to buy some new books or donate one to our school. Visit the website at CBCA

Cluster Choir

Our senior choir have been busily rehearsing and learning new songs for this year’s Cluster Choir event. The performance evening, which takes place at Callaghan College Waratah Campus on Thursday 7th September, showcases the many choirs from our local schools and this year’s theme is Tribute, featuring classics from late greats David Bowie, George Michael, Chris Cornell, Prince and many more.

CEP Outdoor Festival

Our school will be taking part in the Callaghan Education Pathways (CEP) Outdoor Media Festival in Term 4. This event is always enjoyable and successful with all 18 schools in our cluster participating. Part of the festival involves a short film screening and the OC have the task of creating a script and storyboard for our film. The best one will be turned into a “professional” film. We will begin working on this project later in the term. Information about the CEP Outdoor Festival will be sent out towards the end of this term.

Events

We are celebrating Education Week – Grandparents Day next Thursday 3rd August beginning at 9.30am under the COLA. We will be showcasing creative and performing arts programs with performances from our choir, dance groups, school band, aerobics team and public speakers. Following our assembly you’re invited to visit our student Art Gallery set up in the lower hall and community room. A huge thank you to Jane Lander who has been working with students on a variety of art projects in the Art Cave and is setting up our student gallery.

We will be receiving a visit from our Mathematicians in Schools partner, Dr Jarad, later this term as part of National Science Week. Mrs Bowman is also organising some fun activities to help us celebrate this event.

Students who made it into our Zone Athletics team will represent our school in track and field events on Monday and Tuesday of Week 4. Good luck!

In Week 10 this term, students will be organising our Year 5/6 Fair which is a fun celebration day for all students and our major fundraising initiative for our Year 6 Farewell and school gift. Information about our Fair will be sent home soon.

Congratulations also to the many students who have been selected to participate in the Hunter GATs Camp and Creative Arts Camp this term. I’m sure they’ll have a brilliant experience.

Finally, well done to all the students who have had a wonderful start to the term and for their excellent effort and behaviour for Mr Newling while I’ve been relieving principal this week for Mr Selwood. Happy term 3!

Term 2 Overview

Term 2 is certainly well under way! Below is an overview of some of the opportunities and events students will be involved in this term.

Reading

This term students have begun studying our class novel Skellig by David Almond. We will also be starting our Literature Circles this term, guided to begin with. Towards the end of the term, students will have the opportunity to choose a text set for their Literature Group to read and study.

Our OC Book Club begins this month! We are reading the text Two Wolves by Tristan Bancks and will meet at the end of May to have our discussion.

During the holidays I purchased a whole range of new novels for our OC Class Library. It has been wonderful to see so many students borrowing and enjoying these and sharing their recommendations with others. Please encourage your child to choose a book to bring home if they haven’t done so already.

Writing

This term students will be learning about a variety of concepts and devices to enhance their writing skills and will use these to produce imaginative, informative and persuasive texts. Part of this process involves students sharing their work with peers for critiquing and publishing finished pieces of writing on their individual blogs.

Last term our students demonstrated great skill and flair for writing imaginative texts. This term our focus will move towards producing persuasive texts. I will continue to showcase quality examples on the blog.

Students are currently working on a writing project based on the theme Lost. I look forward to some great stories!

We have also organised some Stage 3 combined writing sessions for this term where students will get to work with other students and teachers to develop their skills and knowledge.

Mathematics

During our maths sessions, students will work in group rotations. The maths content we will be covering this term includes: Fractions and Decimals, Volume and Capacity, Patterns and Algebra, Chance and Data, Whole Number and Time.

During this term and next, the OC will be participating the in annual APSMO Maths Olympiad and Maths Games program. The entry fee is $15 per student. Students are able to access past Olympiad papers as part of the homework options. The Olympiads are quite challenging, but a great way for students to develop their problem solving skills.

Students invited to take part in the AMT Challenge will begin working on their problems later this term when notes/payment have been returned.

Excursions

The first event for OC students was the Interschool Chess Challenge held earlier this week – we came 1st! Thank you to all the parents who helped out with transport.

We also have an excursion planned for Week 7 to the Civic Theatre to see a performance of Roald Dahl’s The Witches. I’ll be sending a note home next week.

Homework

Homework for students began last week (Week 2). Again, homework consists of a choice menu, where you can negotiate with your child what activities to complete at home. There is a speaking and listening task for all students to complete – due Week 5. The top 3 speakers will be invited to compete in our Speak Off in Week 6. Parents/carers are invited to attend this event.

SSAI National Primary & Secondary Poster Competition

We are very fortunate to have Dr Elena Prieto joining us from the University of Newcastle to introduce and assist students with this mathematical endeavour. This project-based learning activity involves teams of 2 to 5 students creating an informative poster presentation based on the collection and interpretation of data towards addressing a practical research question.

Geography

This term students will be covering the topic Factors that Shape Places – Urban Spaces and Agriculture with Miss Hibbert on Tuesdays. Students have the opportunity to investigate how people change the natural environment in Australia and other places around the world. They will also explore how the environment influences the human characteristics of places and examine ways people influence the characteristics of places, including the management of spaces. 

Science

Students will explore the science of the solar system and space and have the opportunity to develop their understanding of the 8 planets and other celestial objects in the solar system and beyond. We also have a visit from Skyworks Planetarium in Week 6 which will tie in perfectly with this unit. 

Sport

Congratulations to our PSSA Knockout Soccer, Netball and Cricket teams who all made it through the first round. Keep an eye out for notes coming home with dates for future games. We also have a PSSA Soccer and Netball team representing our school each Friday and rugby skills for students remaining at school. We are currently arranging table tennis for Fridays as well!

Writing Buddies

Last term our class worked with 3AD for our Reading Buddies program. This term we will be doing Writing Buddies and I am looking forward to seeing them share their amazing writing skills with our younger students.

Events

The UNSW ICAS competitions begin this term starting with Digital Technologies in Week 5, Science in Week 6 and Writing and Spelling in Week 8. 

Our whole school Athletics Carnival is coming up in Week 8 on Thursday 15th June. Notes about this event will be sent home soon.

Our Hall of Fame assembly will take place on Tuesday afternoon in Week 10.

The OC will be hosting our Monday assembly in Week 9, 19th June at 11.40am. We’d love it if you could come along and join us. 

Our SRC will be organising a Disco to take place in Week 6 – Wednesday 31st May. Special guest DJ Mix-a-lot will be back! Tickets on sale soon.

We will be celebrating NAIDOC Day in the last week of this term with a special day of activities on the Monday and cultural events throughout the week.

Permission notes and information has been sent home about our Term 3 major excursion to the Great Aussie Bush Camp. Payments can be made at the office or online. 

Finally, well done to the students who have had a terrific start to the term. Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding OC learning programs or events.

Term 4 Events

It has certainly been a big start to term 4 with our Canberra excursion last week and students working hard on their stop motion film projects and Thinkfest.

P&C Circus Fete

The fete is on this Friday beginning at 3pm. Thanks to our wonderful parents organising our showbag stall. Please let Ali (Ember’s mum) know if you would like to help out on the day.

Homework

Homework for students began this week (Week 3). Included in our homework menu this term, students will have the option to earn points for Thinkfest, Stop Motion films and NaNoWriMo writing month. This term’s speaking and listening task has also been sent home and it’s free choice – due in Week 8.

Class Needs

Please encourage your child to bring the required equipment each day, in particular – glue stick, USB, headphones, BYOD and pens.

Mastery Core Value

This term we are consolidating our understanding of all core values – respect, responsibility and quality. Students who achieve 5 mastery ribbons will be inducted into our Hall of Fame during our special assembly in Week 9. Students who achieve Hall of Fame for all core values will receive our special core value badge and be invited to our end of year reward day.

Reading

This term students will be studying the extraordinary novel A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness. Students will be learning about the concepts of metaphor, symbolism, tone and foreshadowing.

Writing

This term we will consolidate our skills in imaginative, persuasive and informative writing. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) this November.

CEP Outdoor Digital Media Festival

Our school will be taking part in the Callaghan Education Pathways (CEP) Outdoor Digital Media Festival in Week 6 on Thursday 17th November. Part of the festival involves a short film screening and students have been busily working on stop motion animations. When completed we will all vote on the best film to represent our school at the festival. Information about the CEP Outdoor Festival will be sent out next week and tickets will be available to purchase before school at the silver seats.

Reports

At the end of this term, students will receive their Semester 2 reports.

Thinkfest

Students have already begun work on their Thinkfest projects for this term. Thinkfest is an OC event where students work in groups on a problem from a key learning area. For each problem students have to write and perform a skit, create a backdrop, design a key prop and maintain a visual process diary.

In Week 6, New Lambton South PS is hosting this year’s Thinkfest event, with OCs from around the region attending. A note will be sent home this week.

Events

This term has already been quite busy and it looks like it’s going to continue!

Many of the students in the OC are part of our Senoir Choir and will be visiting our local Mercy Services to perform with Miss Hibbert. 

We have our leadership program coming up for Year 5 students in readiness for 2017 Student Leadership.  Later this term, we will welcome our new 2017 OC students with an orientation session and transition visits. Our Year 6 students will have high school orientation visits coming up which will be an exciting time for them. At the end of the term we have presentation day and our Year 6 Farewell. 

Finally, congratulations to all the students who have had a brilliant start to the term. There’s lots of events and projects taking place and it’s wonderful to see the hard work and dedication students demonstrate to produce their personal best.  Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding OC learning programs or events.

Term 3 Events

With Term 3 well and truly underway, below is an overview of some of the opportunities and learning programs students will be involved in throughout the term. Remember to visit the OC Events page as I will be updating it regularly throughout the term when dates and information become available.

This term we are very lucky to have Flossy Hamiltons from UoN completing her internship in our class. Miss Hamiltons has already begun working with students, teaching a variety of lessons and is doing a great job getting involved in OC life. 

Education Week – Grandparent’s Day

Next week is Education Week and we will be celebrating on Wednesday 3rd August between 11:40am-1.55pm. We’d love you to come along as our Y5/6 students will be leading STEM activities in our K-4 classes throughout the middle session. We are also having a shared lunch from 1pm – remember to order your sausage sizzle! 

Homework

Homework for students began this week (Week 2). Included in our homework menu this term, students will have the option to work on past papers for the Newcastle Permanent maths competition which is coming up in a few weeks. This term’s speaking and listening task has also been sent home and is due in Week 6.

Class Needs

It’s that time of year when many students need to replenish materials and equipment. Please encourage your child to bring the required equipment each day, in particular – glue stick, USB, headphones, BYOD and pens. We are also running low on tissues.

Mastery Core Value

This term we are focusing on the core value of quality. Students who achieve 5 mastery ribbons will be inducted into our Hall of Fame during our special assembly in Week 10.

Reading

This term students will be studying the class novel Animal Farm by George Orwelll which ties in well with our History topic of Government. Students will also be learning about the concepts of allegory and satire. 

 

Writing

This term our major focus is on informative texts. Students will be learning about a variety of devices used to create effective informative texts.

Students are currently working on an imaginative piece of writing for this year’s Board of Studies Write On competition. Our best entry will be submitted to represent our school for Stage 3.

Mathematics

During our maths sessions, students will work in groups, covering a different strand each week. The maths content we will be covering this term includes: Fractions & Decimals, Volume & Capacity, Mass, Patterns & Algebra, Chance, Length, Area and Data. Students will continue their participation the in annual Maths Olympiad and Maths Games– 3 to go! So far, students have been doing a terrific job solving these challenging problems. Students also have the opportunity to access past Olympiad papers as part of the homework options.

The ICAS Maths competition is coming up in Week 5 and the Australian Maths competition this week for students who have paid. All students in Year 5 and 6 will take part in the Newcastle Permanent Maths competition in Week 6.

Premier’s Reading Challenge

Well done to the students who are taking part in this year’s challenge and who have been entering their books online. There’s not long to go – all reading logs need to be completed by 19/8/16 (end of Week 5) for validation. Keep reading!!

Premier’s Spelling Bee

One of my favourite events – the Premier’s Spelling Bee – will be taking place this term in Week 5. Information will be sent home soon for students who wish to participate. Parents and carers will also have the opportunity to come and watch the Spelling Bee.

Parent/Teacher Interviews

At the end of this term we will again hold parent/teacher interviews to discuss student progress and development. These interviews will also allow the opportunity to review student’s Individual Educational Plans (IEP). The online booking system will again be used and information regarding this will be sent home in a few weeks.

Excursions

Our first excursion is next week – Thursday 4th August, where we will be heading out to Cameron Park Raceway to participate in the Mini EV Solar Cart practice day event in preparation for Race Day on Saturday 13th August. 

We are also participating in Life Education on Thursday 11th August. The cost of this excursion is $10 and notes have been sent home. 

The OC will also be taking part in the Science and Engineering Discovery Day in Week 8. Permission notes will be sent home later this term.

Our top 5 Chess players (Connor, Akira, Jamie, Noah and Oscar) have been invited to compete in the semi-finals at Coal Point PS in Week 4. Good luck!

Our excursion to Aladdin the Musical will take place in Week 9 on Wednesday 14th September for those students who booked a seat. 

History

This term students will take part in the unit Australian as a Nation: Federal Government.  Students will have the opportunity to learn about federation, types of government, voting, women’s suffrage and indigenous culture. This also ties in with our Canberra excursion taking place early Term 4. 

Techno Buddies

Last term our class worked with 1E for the Writing Buddies program. This term we will be focusing on technology where students will have the opportunity to share their technological skills with our younger students and create and use projects using our class iPads, devices and computers.

CEP Outdoor Festival

Our school will be taking part in the Callaghan Education Pathways (CEP) Outdoor Media Festival in Term 4. This event was very successful last year with many schools in our cluster participating. Part of the festival involves a short film screening and the OC have the task of making a film for our school. We will begin working on our filming project this term. Information about the CEP Outdoor Festival will be sent out towards the end of this term.

Events

This term has already been quite busy with lots of events taking place. 

Many of the students in the OC are part of our Cluster Choir and have been busy rehearsing for their event later this term. 

We are also organising a whole school Mini-Olympics event in Week 6 this term which is going to be lots of fun. More information regarding that will be sent home in the coming weeks. 

There are a variety of sporting events including Zone Athletics, T20 Cricket and a Touch Footy Gala day coming up this term for students to participate in. 

Book Week will take place in Week 8 this term with our annual parade on Tuesday 6th September. This year’s theme is about Australian Stories and I encourage all students to get involved and dress up.

Year 6 have the opportunity to take part in the Interrelate: Moving Into the Teen Years program this term. Notes will be sent home next week. 

In Week 10 this term, students will be organising our Year 5/6 Fair which is a fun celebration day for all students and our major fundraising initiative for our Year 6 Farewell and school gift.

Finally, congratulations to all the students who have had a wonderful start to the term. There’s lots of things going on each and everyday and it’s so great to see the effort and initiative individual students show, getting involved in a number of different aspects of school life.  Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding OC learning programs or events.

Term 2 Overview

Below is an overview of some of the opportunities and learning programs students will be involved in during term 2.

Reading

This term students have begun reading our class novel The Donkey Who Carried the Wounded by Jackie French.  We will also be starting our Literature Circles this term, guided to begin with. Towards the end of the term, students will have the opportunity to choose a text set for their Literature Group to read.

Writing

Each day students participate in D.R.A.W – daily reading and writing. Students will be learning about a variety of concepts and devices to enhance their writing skills and will use these to produce imaginative, informative and persuasive texts. Part of this process involves students sharing their work with peers for critiquing and publishing finished pieces of writing on their individual blogs.

Last term our students demonstrated great skill and flair for writing imaginative texts. This term our focus will move towards producing persuasive texts. I will be publishing some student work samples on our blog.

Mathematics

During our maths sessions, students will work in groups. The maths content we will be covering this term includes: Mass, Patterns & Algebra, Chance, 3D Space, Multiplication & Division, Time and Angles.

During this term and next, the OC will be participating the in annual Maths Olympiad and Maths Games. The entry fee is $15 per student. Students are able to access past Olympiad papers as part of the homework options. The Olympiads are quite challenging, but a great way for students to develop their problem solving skills.

Students selected to take part in the AMT Challenge will begin working on their problems in the coming weeks.

Excursions

The first event for OC students is our excursion this week to the Civic Theatre to see The Peasant Prince. The cost is $22 per student and notes were sent home last week.

We have the Interschool Chess Challenge coming up on Friday 13th May. Thank you to all the parents who have indicated that they can help out with transport.

Our Year 5 students have the opportunity to attend a sports gala day coming up in week 4 at Callaghan College Waratah Campus. Notes will be sent home soon. We are also offering students in Y3-6 the opportunity to participate in an excursion to see Aladdin the Musical next term. Notes went out first day back – but be quick we only have 10 seats left!

Homework

Homework for students begins this week (Week 2). Again, homework consists of a choice menu, where you can negotiate with your child what activities to complete at home. There is a speaking and listening task for all students to complete – due Week 4. The top 3 speakers will be invited to compete in our Speak Off in Week 5. Parents/carers are invited to attend this event.

Geography

This term students will be learning about the Geography unit Climate Change. Students will have the opportunity to investigate the impact of climate change on the global environment and the causes and effects of this threat.

Science

Students will continue science with Miss Hibbert on a Friday. This term we are covering the topic Extreme Weather Phenomena where students will learn about a range of weather and natural disasters.

Aerobics

Congratulations to our school Aerobic team – featuring Elsie, Sia, Sophia and Mila from the OC! The girls competed in the Spring Challenge at HSPA last term and won! They will now compete in the preliminary finals next weekend. Well done to the girls, who have been practising non-stop for the last 10 weeks with Miss Drew and Mrs Elley.

NAPLAN

The national assessment program for Reading, Writing, Language Conventions and Numeracy will be taking place in Week 3 of this term for our Year 5 students. Students will look at some past papers leading up to this to help familiarise themselves with the assessment format. Good luck Y5!

Writing Buddies

Last term our class worked with 1E for our Reading Buddies program. This term we will be doing Writing Buddies and I am looking forward to seeing them share their amazing writing skills with our younger students.

Events

The UNSW ICAS competitions begin this term starting with Digital Technologies in Week 4, Science in Week 6 and Writing and Spelling in Week 8. Entries for Writing, Spelling, English and Maths are still open if you haven’t yet entered.

Many of our students are taking part in Choralfest with Miss Hibbert or Softball with Mr Slade this week. Good luck to our talented singers/softballers!

In Week 7, students will enjoy a Questacon Science Show. The cost is $5 per student. Notes will be sent home soon. We also have another visiting performance coming up in Week 9 from Brainstorm Productions. The cost for this is also $5 per students.

The Musica Viva in Schools program will be taking place in Week 5. Thanks to our P&C who fund this program for all students K-6.

Our Year 5 students will be participating in the Aim High Careers Through Reading program this term thanks to the University of Newcastle.

Our Hall of Fame assembly will take place on Monday afternoon in  Weeks 10. All welcome to come along!

Our SRC will be organising a Disco to take place in Week 5. Special guest DJ Mix-a-lot will be back! Tickets on sale soon.

Permission notes and information will also be coming home soon about our Term 4 major excursion to Canberra.

Finally, well done to the students who have had a fantastic start to the term. Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding OC learning programs or events.

Term 3 Overview

With Term 3 well and truly underway, below is an overview of some of the opportunities and learning programs students will be involved in throughout the term. Remember to visit the OC Events page as I will be updating it regularly throughout the term when dates and information become available.

Sapphires Fundraising

We are so proud of Elsie, Sophia and Sia (our Sapphires) who will be representing our school at the Australian Championships later this term. A huge thank you to everyone who has shown their support by getting involved in our Friday fundraising festivities. So far we’ve had a cake stall and out of uniform day. Next week is a lunchtime disco and pizza day is Week 4. Be sure to get your pizza orders in by Tuesday 4th August as no late orders will be accepted.

Homework

Homework for students began this week (Week 2). Included in our homework menu this term, students will have the option to work on past papers for the Newcastle Permanent maths competition which is coming up in a few weeks. This term’s speaking and listening task has also been sent home and is due in Week 6.

Class Needs

It’s that time of year when many students need to replenish materials and equipment. Please encourage your child to bring the required equipment each day, in particular – glue stick, USB, headphones and pens. We are also running low on tissues.

Mastery Core Value

This term we are focusing on the core value of quality. Students who achieve 5 mastery ribbons will be inducted into our Hall of Fame during our special assembly in Week 10.

Reading

This term students will be studying the class novel Esty’s Gold by Mary Arrigan. This historical fiction novel supports our history topic and is about a young Irish girl and her family who survive the potato famine and make their way to Australia to find gold.

OC Book Club

A note will be sent home next week about our August book. We have been recommended Troll Mountain written by Matthew Reilly. Well done to everyone who read last month’s favourite, Fairy Tales for Wilde Girls.

Writing

This term our major focus is on informative texts. Students will be learning about a variety of devices used to create effective informative texts.

Students are currently working on an imaginative piece of writing for this year’s Board of Studies Write On competition. Our best entry will be submitted to represent our school for Stage 3.

Mathematics

During our maths sessions, students will work in groups, covering a different strand each week. The maths content we will be covering this term includes: Fractions & Decimals, Volume & Capacity, Mass, Patterns & Algebra, Chance, Length, Area and Data. Students will continue their participation the in annual Maths Olympiad and Maths Games– 3 to go! So far, students have been doing a terrific job solving these challenging problems. Students also have the opportunity to access past Olympiad papers as part of the homework options.

The ICAS Maths competition is coming up in Week 5 and the Australian Maths competition next week for students who have paid. All students in Year 5 and 6 will take part in the Newcastle Permanent Maths competition in Week 7.

Premiers Reading Challenge

Well done to the students who are taking part in this year’s challenge and who have been entering their books online. There’s not long to go – all reading logs need to be completed by 21/8/15 (end of Week 6) for validation. Keep reading!!

Premiers Spelling Bee

One of my favourite events – the Premiers Spelling Bee – will be taking place this term in Week 6. Information will be sent home soon for students who wish to participate. Parents and carers will also have the opportunity to come and watch the Spelling Bee.

Parent/Teacher Interviews

At the end of this term we will again hold parent/teacher interviews to discuss student progress and development. These interviews will also allow the opportunity to review student’s Individual Educational Plans (IEP). The online booking system will again be used and information regarding this will be sent home closer to the end of term.

Excursions

In Week 9 this term is our Stage 3 excursion to the Great Aussie Bush Camp. Thank you to all the families who have finalised payments or have been making regular instalments. If you require assistance or have any questions, please let me know.

The OC will also be taking part in the Science and Engineering Discovery Day in Week 9. Permission notes will be sent home later this term.

Our top 5 Chess players (Jack, Dan, Cala, Adrian and Zane) have been invited to compete in the semi-finals at Coal Point PS in Week 5. Good luck!

HSIE/History

This term students will take part in the unit Australian Colonies: Gold.  Students will have the opportunity to explore the influence of the discovery of gold on Australian identity, environment and heritage. The unit focuses on significant events, actions and people as well as lifestyles and perspectives of the people and groups living at that time.

Techno Buddies

Last term our class worked with 1E for the Writing Buddies program. This term we will be focusing on technology where students will have the opportunity to share their technological skills with our younger students and create and use projects using our class iPads.

CEP Outdoor Festival

Our school will be taking part in the Callaghan Education Pathways (CEP) Outdoor Media Festival in Term 4. This event was very successful last year with many schools in our cluster participating. Part of the festival involves a short film screening and the OC have the task of making a film for our school. We will begin working on our filming project this term. Information about the CEP Outdoor Festival will be sent out towards the end of this term.

Events

This term has already been quite busy with lots of events taking place. Many of our Yr 5 students are working on scripts and storyboards for this year’s Water Catchers competition. Some of our Yr 6 students will be taking part in the NBN Junior Journos program in Week 4. We have another group of Yr 6s devising a story for the video category of the Newcastle Herald writing competition.

We are celebrating Education Week – Grandparents Day this Thursday 30th July beginning at 9.30am. We will be showcasing creative and performing arts programs with performances from our choir, dance groups, school band and public speakers. Following our assembly you’re invited to visit our student Art Gallery set up in the lower hall. A huge thank you to Jane Lander who has been working with students on their art project in the Art Cave and is setting up our student gallery.

We will be receiving a visit from our Mathematicians in Schools partner, Dr Jarad, in Week 6 as part of National Science Week.

In Week 10 this term, students will be organising our Year 5/6 Fair which is a fun celebration day for all students and our major fundraising initiative for our Year 6 Farewell and school gift.

Finally, congratulations to all the students who have had a wonderful start to the term. Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding OC learning programs or events.