Junior Learning Community
In 2023 the Winters Flat Junior Department consists of a Prep class with Fiona Johnston, a 1/2 class with Lizz White and a 3/4 class with Jennifer Houlihan. The classes are located in the building called Creekview. As well as large classrooms, the building offers a spacious and light filled central area, which is used for reading, play-based learning activities and art sessions.
Students participate in weekly activities including:
- Bluearth (Physical Education) with Sam Milner every week
- Art every week with Bronwyn Tracey
- French class every week with Katie Kilgour
- Performing Arts every two weeks with Suzanne Kinnersley
Students also have access to the School Library to borrow books each week.
We also have a Cobbers Program, where an older student is paired with a younger student. This mentor program fosters relationships and supports our new students’ transition into the school environment. Parents are welcome to help out with a range of programs and their assistance is always appreciated.
Students in the Junior Department participate in “Activities” as part of our weekly timetable. This is a structured play experience which involves all the students working and playing together in our big central space. Activities are facilitated by the teachers using a selection of equipment.
Activities can include craft, construction, dress-ups, dramatic play, mobilo and singing. Afterwards the students return to their classes to reflect and write about their experiences.
The Respectful Relationships program and a range of social, emotional and mindfulness activities are also integral to our classroom activities.
Students from Grade 3 onwards are fortunate to take part in the SAKG program each fortnight, spending an hour in the garden with Terry where we harvest for our lunch and complete a range of garden/science/sustainability team activities. This is followed by two hours in the kitchen with Cath who teaches us about food, nutrition, sustainability, science and hospitality. Students in Prep to Grade 2 will take part once a term. At times it seems a bit chaotic, but we end up with a beautiful lunch after an amazing learning experience.
In the Junior Department, we take our learning seriously. We are keen readers, writers and mathematicians, which we balance with creativity and fun. We have routines and expectations to support students becoming independent learners and school members, and we do our best to care for self, others and the environment.