Junior School
Junior School Abundant curiosity, imagination and adventure were clearly evident amongst our young Kindergarten children as they explored and enjoyed their new playground areas. Developed by internationally renowned play specialists, the carefullyplanned environment provides a multifaceted array of places and activities for children to learn and grow. The early years of education have, in recent years, been formally recognised as the most crucial for a child. The fundamental concepts and understandings that are developed during this time will influence the continuing academic growth of each individual. Through the Kindergarten program and into Prep, the focus of building strong literacy and numeracy foundations is carefully and thoroughly developed. Staff across Kindergarten, Prep and Year 1 participated in a project to
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incorporate clearer progressive goals and communication across these early years so the academic program has more directed, informed pedagogy leading to improved outcomes for students. Mrs Leanne Lyle, Director of Curriculum in the Junior School, has been involved at all year levels in the planning of units that continue to enhance literacy outcomes. Through our inclusive learning teachers, a number of workshops and presentations were provided for staff to enhance their deeper understanding of various techniques and strategies in reading and writing. Ms Filicity Lowrie was appointed as our Inclusive Learning teacher in second semester and she has led a program in reading recovery and decoding skills to accelerate the reading progress of students. In addition to the academic program in classrooms, students were also provided with opportunities to attend our sensory motor integration room called the Engine Room. Mrs Joanne Fraser has implemented a program within this room that supports the development of sensory motor components critical for academic development. This program has been informed by research and input from Occupational Therapists so that these critical areas are targeted. Crawling through tunnels, wiggling in body socks, jumping in ball pits and climbing over a variety of shapes and sizes are all part of the Engine Room activities. The students thoroughly enjoy attending these sessions and teachers are reporting increased focus and attention in students. Our staff have
Canterbury College Yearbook 2014