Our Grade 4/5 students have had a fantastic start to the school year, settling into their new routines and forming strong connections with their peers. Over the past four weeks, they have participated in a variety of team-building games and cultural activities designed to foster collaboration, inclusivity and a positive classroom environment. These experiences have helped students develop a strong sense of belonging while reinforcing the importance of working together and supporting one another.

One of the key highlights so far has been the students’ leadership speeches. Each student wrote, and some presented, their speech, demonstrating courage, responsibility and self-expression. We were incredibly proud of how they conducted themselves throughout this process, speaking with confidence and respect. It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm and willingness to step into leadership roles within our school community.

In English, students have been making excellent progress across all areas. They have particularly enjoyed reading Blueback by Tim Winton. Through this novel, students have been exploring figurative language, with a strong focus on similes, metaphors and personification. They have examined how the author uses these techniques to create vivid imagery and bring characters and settings to life. Students have identified examples within the text and have begun incorporating figurative language into their own writing to make it more descriptive and engaging. They have also continued to strengthen their comprehension skills through thoughtful discussions and deeper analysis of the novel’s themes, including environmental responsibility and courage.

In Maths, we have reviewed place value and introduced decimals, ensuring students have a strong foundation for more complex mathematical concepts. They have been applying mathematical operations to solve both number problems and worded problems, strengthening their reasoning and problem-solving skills. More recently, we have begun our measurement unit, where students are exploring concepts such as length, area and mass. Through real-world examples and hands-on activities, students are consolidating their understanding in meaningful and engaging ways. Additionally, students have been introduced to their laptops and will be using Matific to further develop their mathematical skills in upcoming lessons.

Our Inquiry unit has focused on what it means to be our best selves and how we can support others in becoming the best versions of themselves. Through discussions, reflections and collaborative activities, students have explored the values and qualities that contribute to personal growth and wellbeing. They have considered the importance of empathy, resilience and goal-setting in striving for success both academically and personally.

In Respectful Relationships, we have placed a strong emphasis on how we interact with those around us. A key focus has been understanding the role of body language in communication and the impact it has on the way we relate to others. Students have participated in activities that help them recognise non-verbal cues and practise positive, respectful interactions within our school community.

Overall, it has been a wonderful start to the year, with our Grade 4/5 students displaying enthusiasm, curiosity and a strong commitment to their learning. We look forward to seeing their continued growth and development throughout the term.

- Miss Dillion