NEWS DESK

On same page: Cougar Raphael, left,Christine Bantow, Megan Stenson and Seth Ali enjoy some time out from technology at Patterson River Secondary College. Picture: Yanni

Books club

STUDENTS at Patterson River Secondary College are facing a ban on technology in school this week but it not a punishment for any misdemeanour. The ‘ban’ on mobile phones, iPads and laptops in the school library is a way for students to rediscover the joy of the printed word on the page during the Children’s Book Council organised Book Week (22-25 August) in partnership with state government. The week, dubbed ‘Lit Fest’ at Patterson Secondary, will be an interesting technology separation experience for some students who have known nothing else than a time when reading on glowing screens is prevalent. ‘Stories around the campfire’, a competition matching teachers with their favourite books and collaborative story writing activities as part of book making fun will be part of Book Week at the school. See cbca.org.au/book-week-2016 for further information on Book Week and activities for school students.

Sunday 6 November 2016

September 4th

All smiles: Vincent and Xavier, both 5, enjoy playing and learning at Parkdale Preschool.

Kinder setting new standard PARKDALE Preschool has been rated as ‘exceeding National Quality Standard’ by the Victorian Department of Education, placing the sessional kindergarten among the best in the state. “We always knew Parkdale Preschool was exemplary but now we have the official rating to prove it,’’ Parkdale Preschool director Megan Miller said. The national standards set a benchmark for the quality of children’s education and care services across Australia. “The shared understanding and holistic approach of educators enabled children to be

PAGE 6

Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News 24 August 2016

competent and capable learners,” an assessment report from a departmental inspector stated. It found “a supportive, respectful environment which encompassed families, children and educators in the provision of a high-quality program which provided tangible learning outcomes.” Parkdale Preschool is a community-minded, non-profit kindergarten run by a parent-led committee. Four-year-old places for 2017 are filling fast, to apply contact the kindergarten on 9580 1155, see parkdalepreschool.com.au or call Kingston Council on 9581 4851.