Junior School Report

Our Foundation to Year 2 students had a fantastic time as Nature Navigators during their recent visits to Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick. These special excursions gave students the opportunity to connect with nature, explore local flora and fauna and enjoy outdoor learning experiences.

Throughout the day, students engaged in guided nature walks, hands-on discovery activities and group discussions about the importance of caring for our environment. It was a wonderful way to spark curiosity and appreciation for the natural world. A big thank you to our teachers and learning assistants for supporting this adventure. Well done to our young explorers and many thanks to Ms Hodgkiss for organising this new initiative.

This term, in the Junior School, our Years 3 and 5 students participated in National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN). NAPLAN is a nationwide assessment that measures essential skills in reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy, helping schools and families understand each child’s progress.

We are incredibly proud of our students for their efforts and positive attitudes throughout the assessments.

NAPLAN is just one part of their learning journey, and we celebrate their hard work and resilience. A big thank you to our teachers, Miss Nolan, Mrs Brown, Miss Sutherland, Mrs Harrison, Mrs Mace and Miss Collins for supporting our students. Results will be shared with families later in the year. Well done to all our Years 3 and 5 students.

Our Year 6 students had an unforgettable time at their Beach Program at Mornington Beach. Over two days, they took part in a range of fun and educational activities, including water safety lessons, beach games and teamwork challenges.

The program helped students build confidence in the water while learning important lifesaving skills. With plenty of splashes and smiles, it was a fantastic experience for all. A big thank you to our teachers, Mr Batey, Mr Byrne-Nelson, Mrs Khvorostin, Ms Browning, Mr Pendle, Mrs Barnes and Mr Benham for making this program such a success.

This week, our school came together to celebrate Harmony Week, recognising and appreciating the diverse cultures that make our community so special. Students participated in engaging classroom activities, learning about different traditions and the importance of inclusivity.

We were also treated to vibrant cultural dance performances, showcasing music and movement from around the world. A highlight of the celebrations was the F–2 Cultural Clothes Parade, where our youngest students proudly wore traditional outfits representing their heritage.

Harmony Week was a wonderful reminder of the importance of belonging, respect and diversity. Thank you to our students, staff and families for making it such a memorable event and special mention to Mrs Riviere-Pendle for her tireless efforts to ensure our Harmony Week was such a huge success.

Our recent 2D Presentation assembly celebrating Harmony Week was a wonderful showcase of inclusivity and cultural diversity. While wearing their cultural clothes, each student shared family traditions, favourite foods and languages they can speak. It highlighted the importance of respect, belonging and unity. 

The assembly was a fantastic way to reinforce the message that everyone belongs. Well done to all our talented 2D students for their efforts and to Mrs Duell for making this event possible.

Our Year 6 students have officially embarked on their Canberra Camp adventure, starting with an exciting flight to our nation’s capital. Spirits were high as they arrived, ready to explore the many important landmarks and institutions that make Canberra such a special place.

Over the coming days, students will visit key sites including Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, Questacon and more, gaining valuable insights into Australia’s history, government and culture. I look forward to sharing more highlights from the camp in our next newsletter.

Melissa Roberton

Head of Junior School

Divisional Swimming

Well done to the seven Junior School students who participated at Divisional Swimming at Noble Park Aquatic Centre on 11 March after qualifying through our swimming trials in the previous weeks. This high-level event was full of competition, and we had some great results.

The following students represented Casey Grammar School:

Anavya R – Freestyle and backstroke

Eva D – Backstroke

Chenara G – Breaststroke

Mackenzie P – Butterfly

Daniel G – Breaststroke (3^rd) and Butterfly (2^nd)

Taj S – Backstroke (2^nd)

Rugved C – Freestyle and Breaststroke (2^nd).

Congratulations on your fantastic efforts.

Jeff Batey

Junior School P.E. Teacher

Leaver House – Winter Warmer Campaign

This term Leaver House is supporting the Big Group Hug Children’s Charity by participating in their Winter Warmer Campaign, so go through your wardrobes over the coming weeks and donate any preloved winter clothes you have outgrown — jackets, hoodies, tracksuit pants, scarves, beanies, jumpers or coats are welcome. Tubs have been placed in each classroom from Foundation to Year 6 and will be collected by 3 April. Thank you.

For more information, please click on this link.

Mrs Bronwyn Kyne

Head of Leaver House Junior School

A Day of Learning with Uncle Shane and Aunty Merilyn

As part of their Inquiry into Indigenous perspectives, Year 4 students had the incredible opportunity to participate in an enriching incursion led by Uncle Shane and Aunty Merilyn, along with Margaret and Sarah, from the organisation Together for Humanity. This session was designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of Indigenous culture, traditions, and the importance of respect for the land.

Uncle Shane began with a Welcome to Country, engaging us all with his didgeridoo. He and Aunty Merilyn shared their knowledge through storytelling, song and discussions, helping the students connect with Indigenous traditions in an engaging and meaningful way. They spoke about the significance of the LORE, respect, family, community and connection to the land. 

Students had a chance to ask questions to gain insights and assist with their current Inquiry wonderings. The Year 4 teachers and I were extremely proud of the respect shown by our students and the thoughtful questions asked.

It was a memorable and educational experience, and we all left with a greater appreciation for Indigenous culture and the ongoing journey towards reconciliation.

Miss Bridgette Reale

Head of Trist House Junior School