Issue no. 21
In this edition
From Our Director of ELC
This term marked the opening of our new Learning Community 2 space, and the enthusiasm from the children on their first day back was palpable! It has been heart-warming to witness the joy as children and staff quickly established a sense of belonging while they engaged with their new environment. Their smiles have been a constant reminder of the importance of creating spaces where children feel safe, inspired, and eager to learn.
In addition to our new learning space, we welcomed our talented Chef, Angela Taddeo, to our team. The children have been treated to beautiful seasonal produce and delicious nutritious food. The enticing aromas from our new commercial kitchen have been a highlight, and the children have been captivated watching Angela at work. It’s been wonderful to see them eagerly discussing the menu and expressing their love for the delicious meals prepared with care and creativity. Here are some of the comments from our ELC children regarding their experience of our new food program:
- I tried a new food! – Willow
- Can I watch the chef cooking? – Eleanor
- This pasta is delicious! – Emma
- I like to use the fork! – Liam
It has been quite special to watch the children express their observations through play as they have role played concepts around the role of food and how food brings us together as a community.
Sharing a new space inspires new learning opportunities.
This term, our Pathway Ferguson children have been actively involved in creating essential agreements for their new learning environment, both indoors and outdoors. Through this process they have become curious about what it means to be a part of a democratic community and have implemented their own voting structures. The children have embarked on a journey of exploration, dialogue, and mathematical investigations. We are excited to see where their curiosity and questions will lead them.
The Pathway Hallett children have eagerly embraced their new learning environment, particularly finding inspiration in the kitchen area. The enticing flavours and aromas have sparked their curiosity, fostering engaging discussions and exploration. Encouraged by our educators, they have developed independence by taking on responsibilities such as setting up and clearing plates, thus nurturing their sense of organisation and accountability. As autumn unfolds, bringing with it a vibrant tapestry of colours, the children have taken on a scientific approach, actively collecting and observing natural materials showing a particular interest in the seed pods they have collected.
For our Pathway Ferguson children, the transition to Reception is on the horizon. From exploring the children’s questions about school to nurturing friendships and building relationships with key staff, Chloe Skoss our Pathway Ferguson Teacher has been instrumental in laying the foundation for this next step. Guided by our Vision of Assessment we have been nurturing children’s holistic development across all domains of early learning. From social and communication skills, to literacy, numeracy, and motor development, our Pathway children have been thriving as they prepare for the exciting transition ahead. While we will miss our Pathway children dearly, we are excited to see them embark on this new adventure and flourish in Reception. As we reflect on our Pathway children’s time in the ELC we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to have been part of their learning journey as it is such an immense privilege.
Liz Schembri
Director of Early Learners’ Centre
Important Dates
School Tour: Saturday 11 May
R-2 Mothers and Treasured Friends Breakfast: Monday 13 May
APY Lands Visit: 20-23 May
R-6 Book Fair: 20-24 May
ELC Photos: 21-23 May
ELC New Families Welcome Evening: Wednesday 22 May
Year 10 Parent Teacher Interviews: Wednesday 22 May
Jazz in the Hills: Sunday 26 May
National Reconciliation Week: 27 May-2 June
IB Expo: Tuesday 28 May
Mid-Year Reception Orientation and Transition Morning: Monday 3 June
da Vinci Decathlon: 4-6 June
Year 11 Parent Teacher Interviews: Thursday 6 June
FUSION Performance: Friday 7 June
King’s Birthday Public Holiday: Monday 10 June
And The Winner Is…
Congratulations to SELWYN on taking out Sports Day 2024!
House spirit was on full display at the SA Athletics Stadium today for our annual Sports Day. Houses went head-to-head in track and field events. The novelty events were a huge hit and the amazing Year 12 costumes did not disappoint.
Well done to the girls, staff and parents on another fantastic Sports Day!
Don’t miss next week’s eNews for a full wrap up of the day.
Canberra Study Tour 2024
Last week our Year 6 students headed to the nation’s capital city, Canberra, to engage in their study tour linked with our unit of inquiry ‘How we organise ourselves.’ Driving our learning was the central idea: Government systems and decisions impact the broader community. The trip provided the girls with an excellent opportunity to learn about;
- Our democratic history at Old Parliament House
- The preferential voting system at the Electoral Commission
- Australia’s system of government at Parliament House
During the Tour we visited the Australian War Memorial, which afforded the girls an opportunity to commemorate those men and women who lost their lives defending our rights and freedoms as a country. Other destinations visited on our Tour included the National Portrait Gallery, CSIRO and Questacon.
We’d like to thank Senator Simon Birmingham for graciously dedicating his time to lead our entire group on a VIP tour of Parliament House which was an absolute highlight of the trip. Additionally, another highlight was our visit to Government House, where the Governor General himself engaged with the group, offering us a unique chance for conversation and a special photo opportunity!
The best part of our trip was going on the ‘big drop’ at Questacon!
Olivia Ianniello
The highlight of the Canberra trip for me was talking with the Governor General.
Georgia Ketteridge
I loved visiting Parliament House with Senator Birmingham; seeing the Senate and House of Representatives.
Alice Bigg
A highlight for me was going to the War Memorial and acknowledging those have sacrificed their lives for our benefit.
Mila Laughlin.
Crossing All Obstacles!
Last week, the Year 4s embarked on an exciting camp at Woodhouse Adventure Park. 48 enthusiastic campers engaged in three days of thrilling adventures, from Wednesday 1 to Friday 3 May.
The program featured a variety of group and individual development activities led by Active Education. Through these experiences, students honed their personal and social skills, including teamwork, fostering a growth mindset, and building resilience by tackling challenges head-on.
On the second day, the students immersed themselves in cultural activities such as crafting clay fish, ‘Rainbow Serpent’ orienteering and painting a canvas using Aboriginal symbols. During their overnight stay, the students were treated to a movie night and indulged in melted marshmallow s’mores! To conclude the camping experience, the Year 4s conquered obstacles on Challenge Hill.
Undoubtedly, the Year 4 students had an incredible time, creating lasting memories to cherish.
Jane Angove
Year 4 Teacher
Planetarium Visit was Out of This World!
On Monday 6 May we visited the Planetarium at the Uni SA Mawson Lakes campus as a provocation for our study of space ‘Advances in technology have enhanced our understanding of earth and its place in the solar system’.
We were treated to an hour session in the actual dome, with Astronomer Mary, who showed us how the planets orbit the sun, the constellations we see in the night sky and some amazing history connecting our understanding of the sky with that of native Australians. We now know a great deal about Indigenous cosmology!
We also had a session in the STEM lab at Uni SA where we studied a meteorite, worked out how much we would weigh on other planets, designed a cube satellite, studied distances between planets and looked at constellations. This was a lot of fun as well as being educational as it was designed as a scavenger hunt.
All in all the Year 5s gave this excursion a 5/5!
Shelley Hampton
Year 5 Teacher
Introducing Our New Director of Netball
We are excited to welcome Phoebe Guley to Saints Girls as our Director of Netball.
Phoebe brings a wealth of Netball experience being both a player and coach in the Great Southern Netball Association at McLaren Vale Netball Club. She has also been involved with the Southern Academy program, as well as coaching and playing for Great Southern Netball Association representative teams. Complementing her experience in Netball, Phoebe has also recently commenced a Master of Teaching (Secondary) through Flinders University, with the aim to teach Humanities and Social Sciences and Visual Arts.
Phoebe commenced in Week 1 of Term 2 2024 and has been enjoying getting to know our students, coaches and community. We want to extend a heartfelt welcome to Phoebe. We are excited to watch her support our students and coaches to improve their Netball skills and develop a lifelong love of sport.
ELC – News from Learning Community 1
‘Autumn leaves shower like gold, like rainbows, as the winds of change begin to blow.’
Dan Millman
As the leaves start to turn and the air becomes crisper, our youngest learners embark on a colourful journey into autumn. Armed with curiosity, magnifying glasses, and an abundance of enthusiasm, the children have been joyously jumping, running, and rolling through the fallen leaves on Chiverton Lawns.
From vibrant reds to golden yellows, they are captivated by the kaleidoscope of colours adorning the leaves. Through hands-on exploration, they have discovered the diversity in shapes and sizes, comparing each leaf they find. As educators, we are inspired by their natural sense of wonder, and we nurture their inquiries, guiding them to observe, question, and explore further.
By fostering this early connection to nature, we not only cultivate a deeper understanding of the world around them but also lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
This term, we have introduced the children to an enchanting story called ‘Leaf Man’ by Lois Ehlert. It is a whimsical tale that invites them to not only engage with nature but also grasp fundamental concepts in literacy and Mathematics. Through identifying shapes and patterns in the leaves, they enhance their cognitive skills. The book’s narrative encourages STEM exploration as young minds connect the dots between the natural world and mathematical concepts. By integrating storytelling with hands-on experiences, we delve into a treasure trove of learning experiences, fostering holistic growth and creativity.
Nell Tierney, Annabelle Redmond, Dot Kelly and Kathy McCabe
Learning Community 1 Teachers
Making Bracelets for Our APY Lands Visit
In Week 4, a group of Year 11 students will travel to the APY Lands again to participate in a range of school-based activities, fostering active reconciliation through a reciprocal learning lens. Our students in Years 2 to 6 have been contributing to these important relationships by creating loom band bracelets during lunchtime sessions. Loom band bracelets serve as a vibrant symbol of connection and sharing between diverse communities. These handmade items will be shared with the members of the communities we visit, fostering a sense of unity and understanding, while promoting connections and celebrating diversity through a shared creative activity. Students have made over 250 bracelets so far to be given out during our trip, and they will also lead an after-school workshop to teach community members how to make their own.
Exploring Traditional Chinese Calligraphy in Our Classroom
As Term 1 concluded, our Year 2 and Year 3 Chinese students, including those in the Year 2 Background Chinese class, tried the ancient art of Chinese calligraphy. Chinese calligraphy is a profound cultural heritage that reflects the aesthetic essence of Chinese history. The writing brush, which is an essential tool for this art, has been used in China for thousands of years. Traditionally made from fine animal hair, including that of horses, goats, and rabbits, the brush moves fluidly across paper, allowing for a dynamic range of expressions.
The students practised their strokes using traditional Chinese writing brushes and innovative reusable magic cloths. This innovative tool uses water instead of ink, which means the cloth can be reused as the water dries up, offering an eco-friendly way to learn and practise calligraphy. This approach not only teaches the technique but also instills a sense of sustainability among students.
The students found the experience both enlightening and enjoyable. Here are some comments from our Year 2 students.
Ezriella: I know how to hold the brushes. On the brushes, there are horsehair. It’s super fun to use the writing brush in this activity.
Mila H: The brushes have the Chinese character ‘wolf’ on them.
Mila Z: The magic cloth also helps you to get better at writing.
Charlotte: I hope we get to practice hard words next term.
Willow: Hopefully we do this activity again in Term 2.
In Saints Girls’ language lessons, we aim to enrich our students’ understanding of different cultures and equip them with skills that enhance their creativity and appreciation for diverse artistic traditions.
Ying Liu
Chinese Teacher
Saints Girls Examine Ethical Dilemmas
On Thursday 16 April eight girls competed against other South Australian schools in the Australasian Ethics Olympiad. The students, comprising two teams of four, examined ethical dilemmas of a wide variety, posing questions, and discussing ideas throughout the day. The topics ranged from the ethics of ‘sports washing’ or ‘affirmative action’ to the responsibilities doctors have to their patients. The girls had the opportunity to learn from one another as well as other schools and greatly enjoyed the experience. As a result, the team comprising of Angelina Hii, Alix Douglas, Shanta Holloway, and Misha Yagnik came second overall and will be competing in the competition again on an international level later this year.
Misha Yagnik
Year 12 Student
Jazz in the Hills
On Sunday 26 May, our national award-winning choirs along with guest artist The Adelaide Connection will be singing up a storm at Jazz in the Hills. Tickets include a buffet lunch at the beautiful Discovery Convention Centre in Hahndorf. Over 100 of our talented musicians are involved, with the afternoon featuring Stage Band, Little Big Band, Extension Strings, plus 4 of our Jazz Choirs.
We are incredibly lucky to have The Adelaide Connection, led by multi award winning jazz vocalist Lauren Henderson as our guest artist. This outstanding choir is the Elder Conservatorium’s premier jazz choir, and arguably the very first jazz choir in Australia.
The Adelaide Connection have released four albums, including Nice ‘n’ Easy, which was an ARIA nominee for Best Jazz Album, featuring Australian jazz legend Don Burrows (AOM). They have performed at the International Association of Jazz Educators Convention in New York City, the Manly Jazz Festival in Sydney, the Pacific Basin Choral Convention in Honolulu and have toured regularly nationally and internationally. Recently they have had a number of collaborations with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra.
Click here to book. Bookings close on Monday 13 May at 9am.
Hope to see you there.
Sari Noble
Director of Choirs
Top Awards for Saints Musicians
At the recent Australian Music Examination Board awards Saints Girls was proudly represented by several outstanding young musicians who achieved the top award for their Examination category.
Congratulations to the following girls:
Courtney Fu was presented with the Viola Grade 6 Prize.
Matilda Chu (Patteson 2023) received the Horn Grade 8 Prize.
Heidi Ruohua Gong was presented with the AMusA for Piano.
Samantha Li was presented with the AMusA for Violin.
Jerrie Wu was presented with the Certificate of Performance in Piano.
The Student Libraries Initiatives Club Magazine: SLIC Reviews No. 11 Out Now
The latest edition of SLIC Reviews offers something to appeal to every reader. Within its pages, you’ll find the new mystery series ‘Truly Devious’ by Maureen Johnson, a great read for those who also enjoyed ‘The Inheritance Games’ by Jennifer Lynn Barnes. Additionally, there’s a selection of Japanese translated fiction, featuring highly regarded titles such as ‘What You Are Looking For Is In The Library’ by Michiko Aoyama, and ‘Days At The Morisaki Bookshop’ by Satoshi Yagisawa, which have been popular with both staff and senior students. In this issue, we also highlight new books in the Library, a spotlight on SLIC members, book reviews by senior students and a delicious hazelnut tiramisu recipe by Gordon Ramsay.
Start reading now-click here
R-2 Mothers and Treasured Friends’ Breakfast
Dear Reception to Year 2 Families
A reminder that our Reception to Year 2 Mothers and Treasured Friends’ Breakfast is on Monday 13 May from 7.45 – 9am on the Junior Primary Verandah. Following the breakfast there will be a classroom visit.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Playground Safety Notice
Dear Families
We are excited the Junior School Playground is now open. Please note the Playground is out of bounds before and after school.
Thank you for your cooperation.
ELC Portfolio Sharing
St Peter’s Girls’ ELC warmly invites families in Week 3 to join us in viewing your child’s portfolio.
Your child’s portfolio offers a representation of the rich tapestry of learning that unfolds each day at the ELC. This is a special time to explore and celebrate your child’s engagement in the inquiries and investigations from Term 1.
The portfolios will be available for you to view in the Piazza during drop-off and pick-up times throughout the week.
We eagerly anticipate the joy of celebrating and sharing in your child’s learning journey with you.
Oliphant Science Awards – Registrations Closing Soon
What Can You Expect?
🔬 Real-Life Investigations: Conduct and report on scientific inquiries in real-world settings.
🎨 Unleash Creativity: Explore your interests, talents, and creativity through Science.
🧠 Expand Knowledge: Develop a deeper understanding of science concepts and principles.
🌍 Share Your Work: Showcase your projects to a broader audience and inspire others.
Why Participate?
🏆 Prizes Galore: Win a variety of prizes including cash prizes!
🚀 Career Insights: Discover the vast array of career opportunities in Science and Technology.
💡 Innovation & Inquiry: Foster innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
🌐 Tech Integration: Embrace new technologies, including ICTs, to enhance your learning experience.
🎉 Open to All: Any and all students are encouraged to participate.
Categories to Explore:
🌱 Citizen Science: Sponsored by the University of Adelaide, engage in scientific projects that involve the public in data collection, analysis, and problem-solving.
💎 Crystal Investigation: Delve into the fascinating world of crystals and explore their properties through scientific investigation.
🎮 Games: Develop educational games that make learning science fun and interactive for players of all ages.
🛠️ Models & Inventions: Sponsored by the Australian Institute of Energy, design and create models or inventions that address real-world challenges or showcase innovative solutions.
📽️ Multimedia: Combine your scientific knowledge with your creativity to produce engaging multimedia presentations that communicate complex concepts in an accessible way.
📸 Photography: Sponsored by the SA Museum, capture the beauty of science and nature through stunning photographs that tell a story or convey scientific concepts.
🖼️ Posters: Design visually captivating posters that communicate scientific ideas, research findings, or experimental results.
🤖 Programming, Apps & Robotics: Sponsored by Defence Science and Technology Group, showcase your programming skills by creating apps, software, or robotics projects that tackle scientific problems or enhance scientific exploration.
🔍 Scientific Inquiry: Sponsored by the University of South Australia, conduct scientific investigations into topics of interest and present your findings in a clear and concise manner.
📝 Science Writing: Sponsored by Flinders University, hone your writing skills as you communicate scientific concepts, research findings, or personal insights through articles, essays, or creative writing pieces.
Click here for more information on the categories.
How to Get Involved?
Click here to complete the application form and share your project idea and plan by Monday 13 May 2024.
There will be weekly check-ins Mondays at recess in SC304.
Click here to learn more!
School Shop Notice
School Shop Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 8am – 4pm (closed for lunch 12 – 12.30pm).
Parents can also order items via our Online School Shop. This is now accessible via the Flexischools platform which also administers our Online Tuck Shop. To sign in or sign up to Flexischools, click here
Absences from School
If your child will be absent from school/ELC or is arriving late or leaving early, please notify the School via one of the following methods:
Text: 0428 601 957
Email: attendance@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
Phone: 8334 2200
Please ensure to include your child’s name, the name of the ELC Room, Class or Home Group and the reason for the absence i.e. illness/appointment/family/sport etc.
If notifying via email, feel free to ‘cc’ the teacher of the Room/Class/Home Group as well.
It would be appreciated if notification is received prior to 9am.
Sports News
Saints Teams Compete at Aerobics Competiton
On Saturday 4 May, our Aerobics Athletes competed in the FISAF Super Series competition at Golden Grove. This year there has been a significant increase in the number of girls participating in Aerobics which is a positive step for the future. It was the first competition of the year, and the perfect opportunity for our teams to get stage practice before the upcoming State Competition in June. All the teams did exceptionally well, it was the first time competing for many, and I am proud of how everyone dealt with their nerves.
We were lucky enough to have a team place in each of the three categories, representing Saints well! Fiesta came first in the Secondary Fitness Team section and is the first Fitness Team to compete for Saints. Additionally, in the Secondary Pre-choreographed Team Phase 1 Intensify came third and in the Secondary Pre-choreographed Team Phase 2 Synergy also came third. Both these sections had nearly 10 teams competing, so we are very proud of their achievements. The girls worked very hard in the lead-up to this competition, and it showed when they were on stage. We are working towards the state competition in June, where some of our teams could be selected for Nationals.
Lara Maione
Aerobics Captain