Learning is a very social activity. It is when learners are able to collaborate on a project, share their thinking, question each other and have to work towards an outcome that is acceptable to all, that deep learning can occur. This is why, when you walk into a learning area on the Primary Campus, you would expect to hear 'productive noise'. In recent weeks, I have visited many classrooms where learners are being taught how to communicate with others so that their learning is enhanced.  It's not about having the loudest voice or delivering a monologue and expecting others to listen and accept what you are saying.  We are teaching the students to be confident when delivering their point of view by thinking first, to be able to justify what they are saying, to listen respectfully and actively when others are speaking, to build on the comments of others and to disagree with someone by being 'soft on the person, hard on the content'. We encourage dialogue and the opportunity for everyone to have a voice.  As adults, it is important that we model appropriate and effective behaviours for the children.

In recent weeks, year levels on the Primary Campus have been working together on different topics.  Year 2 and Year 3 students have been running around the oval each morning, clocking up laps which have been converted into kilometres for their journey around Queensland.  In mixed year level groups each Friday, they have 'visited' locations and found out much about the towns and regions on their journey.  Prep and Year 1 students have, for many weeks, been sharing their love of books and last week, they enjoyed the opportunity for some 'arty fun'. No glitter was involved but there was plenty of paint to keep everyone happy!

The relaxation of COVID19 restrictions has meant that inter school sport has resumed with soccer and netball games against Stanthorpe State Primary School held last week.  For some, it wasn't a comfortable game as they complained about their soccer boots being too small for them - an unexpected outcome of the Coronavirus pandemic.  However, the results were in our favour and the students are looking forward to more games this week.

This week is Well Being Week across the school. Our students have been involved in a number of activities designed to highlight the need for us all to look after ourselves and each other.  They have enjoyed yoga, dance fit, hot chocolate, meditations and a pyjama day throughout the week. In the busyness of school life - and life in general - we need to remember to make time for ourselves.  If we are not looking after ourselves we will not be able to look out for others.

With God's blessings.

Sarah Yates
Assistant to the Principal Primary